United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

It will be two years on May 16th that I almost lost my son to a horrible 4 Wheeler accident. He has a BPI on the left side with paralysis of his left arm and shoulder. He was and is a carpenter. Shortly afte the accident the doctor told him he should give up on the idea of returning to carpentry and look for another vacation. This made him even more determined to prove him wrong. Since that days he has made beautiful furniture in his garage. His attitude has been so positive and so courageous. I thank God every day that he didn't take him on that night when I got that phone call that every parent dreads. He has been our strenght over these past two years and despite all the difficulties, pain, and disouragement that he encounters he never complains. He knows that someone was looking over him that night and he has another chance at a better life because of it. As bad as things get for us as parents too it could be so much worse. He broke every bone in his neck and upper back, fractured three ribs, internal bleeding and almost died of pneumonia. We were so blessed that he wasn't paralyzed from the neck down or had brain injuries. He'll do well in his life. Things will be hard but I know in my heart he was spared for a reason.
My son is 27 years old and lives in upper michigan. Any other carpenters out there? Maybe you could share some techniques and tricks with working with wood and tools. Thanks for listning. This is my first time. Also does any one know of a good sling. My son has been wearing Joslin slings but they wear down pretty fast the velcro doesnt hold up well? Thanks, Diane

Hi Diane, My name is COurtney and I live in Michigan also. I will be 25 in a few days here. Where abouts in MI does your son live? i am in the Detroit area but my parents are in Saginaw. I got my BPI almost 4 years ago in an auto accident. You can post on here or email me too! courtney@ubpn.org

COurt xx

Hi Courtney, Thanks for responding to my lenghty reply. My son Don lives is Marquette Michigan in the UP. Have you ever been so far north? Dons step brother lives in Commerce Township. How are you doing since your accident? Have you had any surgery done? Don saw Dr. McGillicudy at U of M and didn't offer too much hope. He only has Medicaid after a $565.00 spenddown. He was on lay off when his accident happened and his Blue Cross just expored the week before his accident. You are welcome to eMail me too. I am piefacedi@aol.com

Diane, I have emailed you!