5 years and 3 months in a chair now. Sure doesn't seem like that long. Had my neck broken when I was 17. The biggest advice I can give is to not sit around and do nothing. It seems obvious but even to this day if I sit around for too long without anything real to do to keep my mind busy I will start to tear myself down mentally. Get out and do things, even it's just simply running errands with friends and family. Whether it be learning new things, building, creating, art, or more find something you can be passionate about. Don't give your mind to much time to drift. Don't quit on all the goals you had before. Some of them may not be possible anymore but many are! So don't let yourself get lazy, figure out how to get it done and do it! Just because you are in a chair doesn't mean it should be any more acceptable for you to not strive to achieve.
Living On Wheels I’ve been injured almost 20 years and I absolutely agree with you. I live in Phoenix, AZ and there are so many things you can do here regarding activities for people with disabilities.
I have to remind myself about this all the time. Not just in my recovery process but also in my creative process here on UA-cam as well. So stoked we got to meet each other in person at the W4L event. Stay strong brother 👊🏻
Hi I’m 17 and I have cancer and lost my ability to walk after getting sepsis from my low immunity from chemo, but this really helped I’ve felt so isolated and useless and resentful of able bodied people my age but I feel like I’ve finally found my people, thanks man :)
37 years is a chair and counting.... I believe we are chosen for a reason!! In addition to have been chosen it is now your responsibility to educate others. When friends want to abandon you and or people look at you too long... You know what I am saying.... It is typically because they are curious and or afraid of something. So, in addition to dealing with your disability you now have to teach those and help make them comfortable with the new unknowns! Yep, add it to the list... But you are going to WIN!! Because he/she with the most challenges in life, WINS!!! Enjoy the Ride, Life!
I've been in a wheelchair for 1 1/2 years, L1 incomplete due to a motorcycle accident. I found my inspiration from family and friends! I was so blessed to have their support physically, emotionally, and financially. I was and am still able to fight hard for recovery and enjoy life every day because of them. Also, a huge concept that helped me is "TAKE THINGS ONE DAY AT A TIME". YOU can do anything in intervals! Great video Richard, thank you for you time and effort to make these helpful and inspiring videos!
Hey Jarod! Thanks for this comment 👊🏻 it sounds like you had a great support system set-up 🙌🏻 “One day at a time” is a slogan I’m super familiar with. I appreciate the love man! I’m so excited they’re gaining traction and the right people are seeing them.
me too... still struggle with the slow decline of my physical body after ten years, the last four being the worst. In a chair full time now, but I am glad I found this channel; even though watching makes me cry.
As an able bodied guy, I think that your positive outlook is amazing. I have a friend who had a spinal cord injury earlier this year and I came across your channel as I was trying to gain more understanding of the problems he was facing on his road to recovery. Luckily for my friend he had an incredible recovery and went from "may never walk again" to walking with a cane in 100 days. Your level of physical fitness has also helped give me the inspiration to take my fitness seriously.
Dude I’m glad you’re here and thanks for the kind words. You’re definitely a good friend if you’re doing research in order to understand what’s going on with him. One tip I may add, just cause he’s up and walking doesn’t mean he’s not still dealing with a lot of secondary SCI stuff. The loss of use of our legs it’s just the most visually obvious reason. Be sure to still talk with him and ask questions.
@@Wheels2Walking he is still dealing with some stuff from his injury but I am keeping in touch with him as much as I can and doing my best to keep his spirits up during his rehabilitation
@@emilia8620 I don't get people who quit being friends with someone because they had an accident and are in a chair. They're the same person as before their accident, they just get around differently.
Help for newly disabled. With my daughter newly immobile due to spinal tumor... Suggestion for video- 1. Your first wheelchair, things you need, things you don't (Powered), What I had,, what I wish I had received... since insurance will only fund the first one 2. Which doctors/therapist do what? Who do you work with for what? Pain, Chair, Hoist, Daily life. Bathroom, Sores,... everyone is a specialist, no one seems to deal with general life. Maybe a list of the 10-15 areas you need an advisor/Dr/helper to explain things and who that might be... dr., Nurse-, PT, OT, Therapist, Whomever to help you professionally. 3. Handy tools for daily life. Thanks so much for your openness and willingness to do this.
I’m not in a wheelchair (most of the time), but I do have a disability (Spina Bifida; I use leg braces 95% of time and JUST started using a chair for long distance). I was also born with my disability, but this video still helped me so much, to the point that I began to cry. Even though I was born with a disability, I am just now at an age where I am feeling my disability harder then ever before. I am a teenager, and I now notice all the stares, whispers, judgments, misconceptions, stereotypes, ect. (I also have dealt with bullying) I have watched other UA-camrs with disabilities before, and even though I just found your channel today, I feel like I connect with you more then anyone else out there. I hope that I can begin to see the world from your point of view and have such a confident and positive personality! I realized that you were right, and that I need to talk to someone about my disability instead of trying to pretend like it doesn’t exist until something reminds me that it does. I’m not sure who to talk to about it, but I’m sure I will get to the point where I feel comfortable talking to one of my friends, talking to my mom/grandma or asking my mom to sign me up for a counciling session. If all else fails, I could also try to find an online committee of people with similar disabilities to my own. You are truly an inspiration to me. God bless
Been in a chair for about a year and a half after 2 months of being In the hospital and about 5 months of very minimal activity due to neckbrace, broken forearm and unstable sore on my sacrum, being positive and keeping your mind busy help so much, dont give yourself a chance to be sad, take up a hobby, makes time pass so much faster and you will feel better!
I also forgot to add a couple of things. I think it's really helpful to check in with your body at intervals to see how it is feeling. Are you thirsty? Hungry? Do you have to go to the bathroom and haven't for a while? I literally set reminders on my phone to do this. In addition, I really agree with what you say about having a routine. Any routine. When I was post rehab at my sisters house doing some physical therapy I didn't have much of a routine and it really brought me down. Now that I'm back in my own place working and just doing the normal things of life I'm getting back into a routine of sorts and it has been really good for my mental health.
If you have a wheelchair with assist handles and anti tip wheels you can set it up to help you walk behind it. When you have done a short walk sit down and rest in the chair you brought with you. Try and get further everytime remember you will always have a seat for when you reach your limit.
I don't have a good support system and I have been in a wheelchair for 2 months after 7 months in the hospital. i am 59 years old I have no family and I thought my female best friend of 25 years resents me for having to take care of me, She doesn't understand that it will take a while to get better. thanks for you vids, they kind of give me hope.
Sorry to hear that you’re struggling David. There are great support groups on Facebook if you have one. She may it may not. You never know unless you ask her. Perhaps you’re reading into it wrong. I know I felt super guilty when I was hurt and I thought everyone was mad at me. It does take time and I’m so grateful my videos can give you some kind of hope. Remember you’re still in the beginning phases.
David, stay positive and keep pushing yourself to be better, I promise you, you've already passed the hardest part, everyday will get better if you push for it
Great positive message and good to see people out there spreading positive outlook and mentality despite challenges. Lessons we can all learn from for sure
Thanks for this comment Matthew! I hope wheelies and non wheelies alike can learn from this videos. I believe there are a lot of tools to improve your quality of life 😁
I’m newly paralyzed I had to get tumors taking out or die. I choose to live in a chair to be here for my 16 year old. I’d love to connect with you! I mend a new person who understands.
You’re so welcome bro! Be sure to watch them all! Find me on Instagram and sign up to read the UNTOLD story here. Lost of great info! Wheels2Walking.com/subscribe
Instagram is a great place to find a bunch of great stuff about wheelchair life and rehabilitation. I’d highly recommend hopping on and checking it out. It really changed my perspectives on what a wheelchair user could do!
@@danieljaime5862 the abs on my motorcycle failed locking the front tire when i was doing about 55. The bike sucked me under it and slid about a block and a half. The whiplash from the wreck caused a concussion that caused issues from past concussions and about a month after the crash i collapsed and when i came to my brain stopped sending signal to my legs. They are treating similar to a TBI/post concussion syndrome. Basically i got hit in the head to many times and knocked my ability to walk or feel in my legs out of my head.
I really like that you said to set new goals and celebrate the little victories. That's definitely been some thing that is good for me, because I'm not the most patient person in the world. I also like the fact that you said that things might take a little longer but they will still get done. I have found that helpful advice to, again with the patience thing. LOL
My brother who is 25 is 2 months paralyzed and it’s so hard for me to see him like this especially with his baby son. And I can’t imagineeee how he’s feeling. (He was on his way to the first day of his job he was SO excited about it was a great opportunity. On his motorcycle someone hit him and I won’t go into details) He shouldn’t have lived from his accident everyone is saying and it rlly is a miracle he’s alive and no brain damage and I’m so grateful. He was so positive but now is kinda setting in with reality (I think because the place he has to stay at sucks) and I feel so bad because I can’t do anything. We’ve been through child abuse our whole lives too so I know what it’s like when people say “Idk what to do or say to help” which is frustrating but now I’m asking you, how can I be there for him or just any general tips for us/him. I try to keep convos normal bc I’d assume it’s better? But I’m not a big talker as it is idk things to avoid saying/doing…Idk what I’m asking rlly…
Good stuff man. I learned so much from hanging out with other quads at rugby. Seeing how they were independent (much more important than walking, I could walk but not put my pants on) really taught me skills. Speaking of which, another video idea, adaptive sports. It makes such a difference in quality of life!
Sports are really important. I played softball and practiced with the basketball team for a single season. Wish I would have done it longer. I remember a trip we went on to NYC and that trip I learned so much from other wheelies it was great. We definitely have some sports videos coming soon. Thanks for the suggestion 👌🏻😁
im 41 now, 28 years ago in 7th grade i fell off a drainage face 15 ft down onto more concrete and broken cinder blocks. i broke my hip and trashed my legs. doctors said ide never walk again but my mom wouldnt buy me wheelchair, i taught myself to walk again and then broke my spine 45&6 at base of my neck. then rebroke same 3,2 years ltr. i worked bof times wif the broken bck to take care of my kids. now i have nerve damage along wif muscle and tendon issues, i just ordered my wheelchair and should recieve it soon. my biggest concern is people finking im a faker but my doctor prescribed me the wheelchair and im finally able to afford it. i can still walk but its very painful so im gonna b learning to live wif this new device to help me. itll b better then limping and dragging myself everywhere!
Hey from the UK, so right about finding your right crowd, we’re so lucky to have all the media platforms we do now, there is so much info out there and so many of us willing to give it and share our experiences.....5 years this September C4/5.....keep doin what you’re doin....great videos
I just want to say that i love your youtube channel inspirational to others and sharing your journey I work with adults with disabilities and they use wheelchairs to get around and when I watch your channel you give me and others hope that this is a part of the journey but it doesn't define you as a person . you are a big inspiration to me and others .
Loved this. I was unable to walk due to neuropathy if feb and spent 2 weeks in hospitalbut am getting stronger. I have a feeding tube in my nose and am legally blind. I have a rare disease that cause all these things but it’s unknown how these things happen or why. It’s hard but it’s just a day by day journey that has more twists and turns than others
I'm so grateful you were able to get some value out of it. Life can be chaotic and have it's ups and downs. keep your chin up and keep pushing forward 💪🏻
I can relate so much to the frustration. Does it come out as anger towards loved ones sometimes? I had that issue in the beginning and I believe a lot of us do.
Wheels2Walking yeah it did sometimes. Not as much now but if I’m having an off day it can. I use humour to cope and I don’t mind people making jokes around me because it shows they are comfortable around me as long as it doesn’t turn into being rude. But if it’s a bad day for me I don’t like the jokes as much
I love your videos and always get something out of them. I don't have a lot of friends but you encouraged me to do activities on my own. Also going to the gym helps and gets me out of the house.
31 *technically 29 bc I spent first 2 years of my life in stroller* years in a wheelchair due to birth defect not SCI. Biggest thing is to not let anyone tell you you CANT do something. Use people telling you you CANT as fuel to prove them wrong. Try to figure out alternative ways to do things if it’s a simple task. There might not always be someone there to help. At least not someone always WILLING. You’ll be surprised what you can accomplish
Great Video As Always!! I've been in my chair full time for the last 8yrs or so and I am still learning new things... my biggest one right now is weight loss... I have good day's & bad one's, however I'll figure it out eventually....
Thanks heaps for all your content/advice/tips and all the things that are out there for people in our situation and the different things you can get for a wheelchair. I'm starting to climb out of a very dark hole after finally seeing a psychologist for the first time in my life as things are really hard to deal with and I had no idea just how much I have isolated myself from everyone since being in the chair. Love your channel as I just discovered it today. Keep going hard brother 💪💖👊💖💪
My husband knows that one!! He has a mild form of MS. He can walk normally, but still has some loss of feeling in his feet, and can get leg pains. He uses a handicap placard that hangs from the rear view mirror. He really uses it more in the hot summer months, due to the fact that summer heat affects it more than anything. He uses regular spaces in cooler weather, so others with more severe disabilities can use the handicap spaces instead.
Holly, I am in the same boat. C6 incomplete with herniated disks L4/5. I can walk short distances but then the pain sets in. My right side is weak and my left side is numb so the sci changed my walk which is aggravating my herniated disks. People give me dirty looks when I park is handicapped parking.
I had femur fractures in both legs several years ago. I never even fell It was from osteoporosis. I was starting to walk again but as time went on my back was getting worse Then one day it was harder and harder to walk. Now I can’t walk at all. Hopefully when my pain gets under control I’ll get some mobility back.
Im a result from a bad back operation I had a month ago. Im still in a rehab but not getting much help here other than getting my diaper changed ( when the workers feel like it ) since I can't move from the waist down. I wish i could tranfer from a chair to a bed but cant Its only been a month and lost alot of weight in here . Worse thing here im much older than you guys but still have upper body control and a brain. Not giving up but its hard when they try and break your spirit here .
Thankyou for all your tips i use silding bord and i what to try and transfer my self thats my goal still cant but i love your positive outlook in life your a inspection to all 💕❤💜
I’m sort of a newbie do-over I was doing reasonably well and a secondary injury happened. It fkd me up in more ways than one. Once injured with a severe SCI, it’s very easy to make zero tolerance bone kibble vertebrae do more damage. One wrong hard fall off my own porch, is all it took! A vehicle wheel went across my back from T12-L5. Luckily it was extremely muddy so the wet ground actually saved my life. Then I lose my balance and fall off my very tall porch. 😖 Now… it’s “Problematic Spasms” not the “oh Chance is healing kind.” No, it’s the “oh no not again kind.” It’s like having your very own torture genie, and he’s a malevolent bastard with very BAD TIMING. He loves to play when anyone might get to see, because all I have to do is move wrong! And I don’t know exactly where wrong is right now. So far no one has any answers, except this should settle down but may never totally go away. It has become obvious that if I can keep swelling down, it’s not as bad. If my legs are swelling, my spine is an angry beast. That can wipe out half a day sometimes. People don’t get that… I can’t make plans for much of anything if my legs won’t even bend enough to get in the WChair, or my Jeep, or whatever. It’s become my new monster. I feel like a freak show and I have never been anyone who wants or enjoys attention positive or negative.. so it’s eating at me bad. I have some people around me that think they know more about me (and being mostly paralyzed) than I or a doctor does. It’s simply their LOST EXPECTATIONS of me getting better. I was getting better and no one wants to face the facts that Chance has a huge problem without some fairly tale answer right now. Oh sure they can take off both my legs and finish what the accident started and do a full chop.. it was actually mentioned as a consideration. I’m like… I’m not ready to go there and hell no is my answer for now. That was offensive because it’s an end to the problem… I get that but my heart doesn’t. That ends way too much really fast. I get so sick of “well, what are you gonna do?” If I had that answer, I would already be gone! I totally see how some of us become ass holes. I’m in my home. I haven’t asked for a dime. I never ask for help because it feeds the very problem I am having with normal people who ARE NOT ADAPTING with the only paraplegic among them. They still see me tossing hay, jumping off docks, riding dirt bikes… I’m never saying I can’t again, just not today and prolly not tomorrow! If I had one wish it wouldn’t be to plead for the spasms to stop, they will settle down (the nerves are dying, so it’s just time). I would ask for normal people to just THINK before saying stuff that can’t be unsaid… especially in my home. My only place to find any stability in my life right now. They question everything I do & my very kind and gentle nature is getting really short fused. Toxic BS has zero place in any situation where someone is forced to re-establish a whole new life, identity, way of thinking, moving, sleeping, going to the restroom, eating at a table,traveling… you name it. It has a big “F.U. Chance” sign invisibly hanging in front of it. I get it! I just become less than I was. I don’t need my face rubbed in it. I actually hope no one reads this… if they do I hope they understand and it’s simply a way for me to let out stuff, so I don’t lash out at people who refuse to think. I do love them more than I can express. I do try and see what I look like to them… Then it hits you… NOTHING will ever be the same and it’s affecting EVERYONE, not just me. Yet it is me that has to carry all this and all from something that was in no way my fault. I’m very blessed to not have that huge burden that I know others do carry (even others concerning me). I don’t want them to carry that. I would rather not live then know I’m causing someone to carry guilt over what happened to me. It’s life, and it’s messy, and shit happens, and it sux. Now we move on! Once you grab hold of that and wrestle it out of your head, at least that healing begins. Thanks for all the great videos you have made… This one hit home HARD! It will get better or I will have to start weeding out some monsters (that use to seem to care)… Did they ever truly care, or was this an opportunity for them to have their own “disability” to whine about? I’m nobody’s excuse… that I will get totally pissed over. I don’t have the full answer, or maybe I’m refusing to say a truth that hurts too much right now. It will pass, or I will have to make some changes on who comes here and causes my life to suck worse than usual. I don’t want to have to do that, ever. 🤮 I’m not that guy, but I will keep my dignity and my sanity, or I eat a bullet. Death is not what I seek, so know that would be so far from who I am that’s it’s not even a consideration. People hear a comment like that and think someone is about to off themself. No, its the ones who never say a word that people need to watch over. Besides with my luck… it would be a 10x eternal event that extends this to repeat forever. No thanks. Suffering a little while sounds pretty good in comparison.
My first language is not English, so I hope, I does not sound rude/mean in this comment: I really like your channel and the content you create, but sometimes (to me) it looks like that your experiences and advices with your level of a SCI are sooo far away from those with higher-level-injuries as they really are in real life e. g. "comparing" a C5 quad with a T12 imcomplete para ... I am a wheelchair-user myself, but I am fortunate to have full arm- and fingerfunction, no chronic-pain problems and a total different type of health-care-system, so I do not have to worry, how I should be able to pay for my meds or any type of aides (wheelchair, hospital-bed, etc.) out of my own pocket. Thinking of one of my best friends, who lives in the US and happens to be a C5 complete quad, who has to deal with a lot of pain 24/7 and does not know how to cover the costs for his new wheelchair (his old power-wheelchair is more than 11 years old) and all the ongoing medical costs for the "daily needed stuff", I think, it´s impossible for somebody in his situation to really follow a lot of your suggestions, because he has no chance to be as fit and as independend as you are ... !
And please, don´t get me wrong, it´s not meant rude in any way. I just wanted to say, that I watch all of your videos, but thinking of this awesome guy e. g., unfortunately most things are "impossible or out of reach for him" due to having a higher level of injury and therefore not the same options you (and I) have or can try to archive !
Sonja K. Yes, there are some things that are out of reach. Sadly, that’s the nature of the injury. You really can not compare injuries (paras and quads) because they’re different in many ways. However, there are still a lot of things they can both do. They might have to do it in different ways to accomplish it. Sorry this was a little all over. I keep editing it. :) - paraplegic 20 years.
@@nygirlinancworld1628 Thank you so much for your reply ! I still hope, the channel owner will not be mad at me for writing this comment. We ware always told how fortunated we are due to our healthcare-system compared to people in the US e. g. , but actually "talking to a real person" was kind of a shock to me ... It´s so unfair, that it is all about the money and sometimes even the money your parents can spend on your behalf - while we are almost treated like "spoiled brats" (most of the time), just because of living in a different country. Not having all the pain meds or spasm meds you need, because you can´t afford them all the time sounds horrible ... And it makes me sad, that I also do not have the money to really help to get the needed stuff, although this guy I am talking about would really deserve it ... !
Hi Sonja! No worries, you’re not making me mad at all and you have a good point. Being a quad is much harder and different than being a para (like me). However, there are quite a few quads who watch my videos and enjoy them. Our injuries are like fingerprints. They are all uniquely different. The challenge is that I can’t make videos for everyone, because I’m not everyone, I’m me. I can only share my experience and knowledge about my life and my specific disability. My hope is that i inspire a bunch of other people with a bunch of different kind of injuries to make videos like mine so we can all learn from each other. Thanks for your comment! 😁😊
@@Wheels2Walking Oh, Richard - it took a while for me to realize the fact, that you do not know, that is was me, who "just" pressed the like button to your reply. So, "thanks again", for not getting me wrong and all the best and lots of Love to you from Germany !
Just do your rutine and make time to do what you like make friends do what make you happy, be happy to be alive and use every moment im 14 years using chair lot of pain lot of efort and much more smile and happy moments
Technical advice: Music is too loud, voice is too quiet. When you are talking, I need to raise the volume so I can understand you. When you pause, I lower the volume because the music becomes too loud. This is in most of you videos. I do not have intention to offend you or something, just sharing an idea. Best wishes!
I think above all else, don’t wallow in self pity wondering why you’re in the situation you’re in. No matter how bad things may be..... and this applies to all aspects of life not just disability...... there’s always someone dealing with something worse. In a wheelchair.... there’s people who may never set foot out of a hospital bed. Stuck in a hospital bed.... there’s people who have died from their injuries. Have difficulty moving your legs.... there’s people who can’t move their arms therefor they can’t do simple tasks such as scratching their face or feeding themselves. Be grateful for what ABILITIES you have instead of thinking about the DISability.
The sucktastic part is there are very few if any people like me. I have multiple genetic conditions that are contributing to me losing the use of my legs and eventually bladder and bowels. I've been searching for years with no success in finding anyone else like me. I am not giving up but not sure where else to look either.
I think the biggest question here is how in the world did you get that one shot of the guy holding your shoulder flying horizontally? Is that photo real or are you The Flash?
![Дон ДОН, Алаудинов и СБЕЖАВШИЕ из под Курска ахматовцы 😁 [Пародия]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dEfCf5IK26Q/mqdefault.jpg)
5 years and 3 months in a chair now. Sure doesn't seem like that long. Had my neck broken when I was 17. The biggest advice I can give is to not sit around and do nothing. It seems obvious but even to this day if I sit around for too long without anything real to do to keep my mind busy I will start to tear myself down mentally. Get out and do things, even it's just simply running errands with friends and family. Whether it be learning new things, building, creating, art, or more find something you can be passionate about. Don't give your mind to much time to drift. Don't quit on all the goals you had before. Some of them may not be possible anymore but many are! So don't let yourself get lazy, figure out how to get it done and do it! Just because you are in a chair doesn't mean it should be any more acceptable for you to not strive to achieve.
Living On Wheels I’ve been injured almost 20 years and I absolutely agree with you. I live in Phoenix, AZ and there are so many things you can do here regarding activities for people with disabilities.
This comment is great I love it!
You even have that awesome 360 gym, right?!
Wheels2Walking Yes, it’s really awesome. 😀
“This is a marathon, not a race” you can’t imagine how many times I’ve heard this the last year and a half 🙏🙌 that’s my motto in life now
I have to remind myself about this all the time. Not just in my recovery process but also in my creative process here on UA-cam as well. So stoked we got to meet each other in person at the W4L event. Stay strong brother 👊🏻
Hi I’m 17 and I have cancer and lost my ability to walk after getting sepsis from my low immunity from chemo, but this really helped I’ve felt so isolated and useless and resentful of able bodied people my age but I feel like I’ve finally found my people, thanks man :)
I broke my neck when I was 15.... I'm 18 now I've fully healed theres hope for all of uss stay strong my friends
37 years is a chair and counting.... I believe we are chosen for a reason!! In addition to have been chosen it is now your responsibility to educate others. When friends want to abandon you and or people look at you too long... You know what I am saying.... It is typically because they are curious and or afraid of something. So, in addition to dealing with your disability you now have to teach those and help make them comfortable with the new unknowns! Yep, add it to the list... But you are going to WIN!! Because he/she with the most challenges in life, WINS!!! Enjoy the Ride, Life!
Great points! Thank you for your contribution!
2.5 years post injury. C3 incomplete quad. Training for Ironman. Keep your head in the game. You can do anything you set your mind to.
I've been in a wheelchair for 1 1/2 years, L1 incomplete due to a motorcycle accident. I found my inspiration from family and friends! I was so blessed to have their support physically, emotionally, and financially. I was and am still able to fight hard for recovery and enjoy life every day because of them. Also, a huge concept that helped me is "TAKE THINGS ONE DAY AT A TIME". YOU can do anything in intervals! Great video Richard, thank you for you time and effort to make these helpful and inspiring videos!
Hey Jarod! Thanks for this comment 👊🏻 it sounds like you had a great support system set-up 🙌🏻
“One day at a time” is a slogan I’m super familiar with.
I appreciate the love man! I’m so excited they’re gaining traction and the right people are seeing them.
your making me hate my chair less. Thank you
This is such a sweet and kind comment. It means so much to me ❤️ I’m so grateful you found my channel and are enjoying my videos.
me too... still struggle with the slow decline of my physical body after ten years, the last four being the worst. In a chair full time now, but I am glad I found this channel; even though watching makes me cry.
As an able bodied guy, I think that your positive outlook is amazing. I have a friend who had a spinal cord injury earlier this year and I came across your channel as I was trying to gain more understanding of the problems he was facing on his road to recovery. Luckily for my friend he had an incredible recovery and went from "may never walk again" to walking with a cane in 100 days. Your level of physical fitness has also helped give me the inspiration to take my fitness seriously.
Dude I’m glad you’re here and thanks for the kind words. You’re definitely a good friend if you’re doing research in order to understand what’s going on with him. One tip I may add, just cause he’s up and walking doesn’t mean he’s not still dealing with a lot of secondary SCI stuff. The loss of use of our legs it’s just the most visually obvious reason. Be sure to still talk with him and ask questions.
@@Wheels2Walking he is still dealing with some stuff from his injury but I am keeping in touch with him as much as I can and doing my best to keep his spirits up during his rehabilitation
@@emilia8620 I don't get people who quit being friends with someone because they had an accident and are in a chair. They're the same person as before their accident, they just get around differently.
Thank you, I’m still new and still fighting reality a bit.
Hang on my dude
Me too it is hard sometimes.
Help for newly disabled.
With my daughter newly immobile due to spinal tumor... Suggestion for video- 1. Your first wheelchair, things you need, things you don't (Powered), What I had,, what I wish I had received... since insurance will only fund the first one 2. Which doctors/therapist do what? Who do you work with for what? Pain, Chair, Hoist, Daily life. Bathroom, Sores,... everyone is a specialist, no one seems to deal with general life. Maybe a list of the 10-15 areas you need an advisor/Dr/helper to explain things and who that might be... dr., Nurse-, PT, OT, Therapist, Whomever to help you professionally. 3. Handy tools for daily life. Thanks so much for your openness and willingness to do this.
I’m not in a wheelchair (most of the time), but I do have a disability (Spina Bifida; I use leg braces 95% of time and JUST started using a chair for long distance). I was also born with my disability, but this video still helped me so much, to the point that I began to cry. Even though I was born with a disability, I am just now at an age where I am feeling my disability harder then ever before. I am a teenager, and I now notice all the stares, whispers, judgments, misconceptions, stereotypes, ect. (I also have dealt with bullying) I have watched other UA-camrs with disabilities before, and even though I just found your channel today, I feel like I connect with you more then anyone else out there. I hope that I can begin to see the world from your point of view and have such a confident and positive personality! I realized that you were right, and that I need to talk to someone about my disability instead of trying to pretend like it doesn’t exist until something reminds me that it does. I’m not sure who to talk to about it, but I’m sure I will get to the point where I feel comfortable talking to one of my friends, talking to my mom/grandma or asking my mom to sign me up for a counciling session. If all else fails, I could also try to find an online committee of people with similar disabilities to my own. You are truly an inspiration to me. God bless
Been in a chair for about a year and a half after 2 months of being In the hospital and about 5 months of very minimal activity due to neckbrace, broken forearm and unstable sore on my sacrum, being positive and keeping your mind busy help so much, dont give yourself a chance to be sad, take up a hobby, makes time pass so much faster and you will feel better!
Keeping yourself busy and occupied is so clutch. You’re 100% right. If you don’t have a moment to be sad it’s hard to be sad lol.
I also forgot to add a couple of things. I think it's really helpful to check in with your body at intervals to see how it is feeling. Are you thirsty? Hungry? Do you have to go to the bathroom and haven't for a while? I literally set reminders on my phone to do this. In addition, I really agree with what you say about having a routine. Any routine. When I was post rehab at my sisters house doing some physical therapy I didn't have much of a routine and it really brought me down. Now that I'm back in my own place working and just doing the normal things of life I'm getting back into a routine of sorts and it has been really good for my mental health.
If you have a wheelchair with assist handles and anti tip wheels you can set it up to help you walk behind it. When you have done a short walk sit down and rest in the chair you brought with you. Try and get further everytime remember you will always have a seat for when you reach your limit.
I don't have a good support system and I have been in a wheelchair for 2 months after 7 months in the hospital. i am 59 years old I have no family and I thought my female best friend of 25 years resents me for having to take care of me, She doesn't understand that it will take a while to get better. thanks for you vids, they kind of give me hope.
Sorry to hear that you’re struggling David. There are great support groups on Facebook if you have one. She may it may not. You never know unless you ask her. Perhaps you’re reading into it wrong. I know I felt super guilty when I was hurt and I thought everyone was mad at me. It does take time and I’m so grateful my videos can give you some kind of hope. Remember you’re still in the beginning phases.
David, stay positive and keep pushing yourself to be better, I promise you, you've already passed the hardest part, everyday will get better if you push for it
David Thomas being in the hospital is a real drag. Hang in there. Like he said it's a marathon, not a sprint.
Great positive message and good to see people out there spreading positive outlook and mentality despite challenges. Lessons we can all learn from for sure
Thanks for this comment Matthew! I hope wheelies and non wheelies alike can learn from this videos. I believe there are a lot of tools to improve your quality of life 😁
I’m newly paralyzed I had to get tumors taking out or die. I choose to live in a chair to be here for my 16 year old. I’d love to connect with you! I mend a new person who understands.
Thank you for your videos. Im only about 2 months into being into a chair. Your videos help allot.
You’re so welcome bro! Be sure to watch them all! Find me on Instagram and sign up to read the UNTOLD story here. Lost of great info! Wheels2Walking.com/subscribe
@@Wheels2Walking Ive been binge watching them. Unfortunatly I dont have instagram. But I will check out the website
Instagram is a great place to find a bunch of great stuff about wheelchair life and rehabilitation. I’d highly recommend hopping on and checking it out. It really changed my perspectives on what a wheelchair user could do!
I don’t want to be disrespectful but may I ask what happened
@@danieljaime5862 the abs on my motorcycle failed locking the front tire when i was doing about 55. The bike sucked me under it and slid about a block and a half. The whiplash from the wreck caused a concussion that caused issues from past concussions and about a month after the crash i collapsed and when i came to my brain stopped sending signal to my legs. They are treating similar to a TBI/post concussion syndrome. Basically i got hit in the head to many times and knocked my ability to walk or feel in my legs out of my head.
I dont think it was intentional, but as a cinematic scene i love how he says"you are gonna be slowere" and someone passes jogging behind him
I really like that you said to set new goals and celebrate the little victories. That's definitely been some thing that is good for me, because I'm not the most patient person in the world. I also like the fact that you said that things might take a little longer but they will still get done. I have found that helpful advice to, again with the patience thing. LOL
My brother who is 25 is 2 months paralyzed and it’s so hard for me to see him like this especially with his baby son. And I can’t imagineeee how he’s feeling. (He was on his way to the first day of his job he was SO excited about it was a great opportunity. On his motorcycle someone hit him and I won’t go into details) He shouldn’t have lived from his accident everyone is saying and it rlly is a miracle he’s alive and no brain damage and I’m so grateful. He was so positive but now is kinda setting in with reality (I think because the place he has to stay at sucks) and I feel so bad because I can’t do anything. We’ve been through child abuse our whole lives too so I know what it’s like when people say “Idk what to do or say to help” which is frustrating but now I’m asking you, how can I be there for him or just any general tips for us/him. I try to keep convos normal bc I’d assume it’s better? But I’m not a big talker as it is idk things to avoid saying/doing…Idk what I’m asking rlly…
You really help me I am a new wheelchair user and watching all ur films has helped
Good stuff man. I learned so much from hanging out with other quads at rugby. Seeing how they were independent (much more important than walking, I could walk but not put my pants on) really taught me skills.
Speaking of which, another video idea, adaptive sports. It makes such a difference in quality of life!
Sports are really important. I played softball and practiced with the basketball team for a single season. Wish I would have done it longer.
I remember a trip we went on to NYC and that trip I learned so much from other wheelies it was great.
We definitely have some sports videos coming soon. Thanks for the suggestion 👌🏻😁
@@Wheels2Walking love handcycling, rugby, and working to get back into triathlon.
im 41 now, 28 years ago in 7th grade i fell off a drainage face 15 ft down onto more concrete and broken cinder blocks. i broke my hip and trashed my legs. doctors said ide never walk again but my mom wouldnt buy me wheelchair, i taught myself to walk again and then broke my spine 45&6 at base of my neck. then rebroke same 3,2 years ltr. i worked bof times wif the broken bck to take care of my kids. now i have nerve damage along wif muscle and tendon issues, i just ordered my wheelchair and should recieve it soon. my biggest concern is people finking im a faker but my doctor prescribed me the wheelchair and im finally able to afford it. i can still walk but its very painful so im gonna b learning to live wif this new device to help me. itll b better then limping and dragging myself everywhere!
I have the PERFECT video for you. Check it out and read the comments. You're not alone :)
ua-cam.com/video/PKdHnGv6zNY/v-deo.html
Hey from the UK, so right about finding your right crowd, we’re so lucky to have all the media platforms we do now, there is so much info out there and so many of us willing to give it and share our experiences.....5 years this September C4/5.....keep doin what you’re doin....great videos
So lucky! I love social media for connecting and learning from other wheelies. It’s great 😁
I just want to say that i love your youtube channel inspirational to others and sharing your journey I work with adults with disabilities and they use wheelchairs to get around and when I watch your channel you give me and others hope that this is a part of the journey but it doesn't define you as a person . you are a big inspiration to me and others .
Loved this. I was unable to walk due to neuropathy if feb and spent 2 weeks in hospitalbut am getting stronger. I have a feeding tube in my nose and am legally blind. I have a rare disease that cause all these things but it’s unknown how these things happen or why. It’s hard but it’s just a day by day journey that has more twists and turns than others
I'm so grateful you were able to get some value out of it. Life can be chaotic and have it's ups and downs. keep your chin up and keep pushing forward 💪🏻
Wheels2Walking sometimes chaotic is an understatement. Frustration is the biggest for me but I’m getting better with it
I can relate so much to the frustration. Does it come out as anger towards loved ones sometimes? I had that issue in the beginning and I believe a lot of us do.
Wheels2Walking yeah it did sometimes. Not as much now but if I’m having an off day it can. I use humour to cope and I don’t mind people making jokes around me because it shows they are comfortable around me as long as it doesn’t turn into being rude. But if it’s a bad day for me I don’t like the jokes as much
Humor really is great. I love it when my friends tease me as long as it’s in good spirits.
Helped me feel better about myself and being in my chair I have a low level incomplete spinal cord injury after being battered and dropped on my back
I love your videos and always get something out of them. I don't have a lot of friends but you encouraged me to do activities on my own. Also going to the gym helps and gets me out of the house.
Check out the post I made on IG today about internet friends! I think it could be really helpful for you :)
Thanks for the comment 😁
31 *technically 29 bc I spent first 2 years of my life in stroller* years in a wheelchair due to birth defect not SCI. Biggest thing is to not let anyone tell you you CANT do something. Use people telling you you CANT as fuel to prove them wrong. Try to figure out alternative ways to do things if it’s a simple task. There might not always be someone there to help. At least not someone always WILLING. You’ll be surprised what you can accomplish
I ❤ your videos. Saludos desde Madrid 🤗🤗
This applies to so many things and I am very grateful for this video today ❤
Great Video As Always!!
I've been in my chair full time for the last 8yrs or so and I am still learning new things... my biggest one right now is weight loss... I have good day's & bad one's, however I'll figure it out eventually....
The good news is that most diet/fitness advice works for us wheelies too.
Thank you for these videos. I am learning so much
Glad to find your channel.
Great always I'm sure lots of people will find it helpful
Hope so! I think this video has some great info 😁
Thanks heaps for all your content/advice/tips and all the things that are out there for people in our situation and the different things you can get for a wheelchair. I'm starting to climb out of a very dark hole after finally seeing a psychologist for the first time in my life as things are really hard to deal with and I had no idea just how much I have isolated myself from everyone since being in the chair.
Love your channel as I just discovered it today. Keep going hard brother 💪💖👊💖💪
Thank you
I’m not in a chair but my disability is invisible so I look healthy. I get a lot of stares and negative comments when I park in handicap
My husband knows that one!! He has a mild form of MS. He can walk normally, but still has some loss of feeling in his feet, and can get leg pains. He uses a handicap placard that hangs from the rear view mirror. He really uses it more in the hot summer months, due to the fact that summer heat affects it more than anything. He uses regular spaces in cooler weather, so others with more severe disabilities can use the handicap spaces instead.
Holly, I am in the same boat. C6 incomplete with herniated disks L4/5. I can walk short distances but then the pain sets in. My right side is weak and my left side is numb so the sci changed my walk which is aggravating my herniated disks. People give me dirty looks when I park is handicapped parking.
To be honest, at this point, I feel done. confused and not sure what to do. Right now I do as I am told and work hard doing it.
I had femur fractures in both legs several years ago. I never even fell
It was from osteoporosis. I was starting to walk again but as time went on my back was getting worse
Then one day it was harder and harder to walk. Now I can’t walk at all. Hopefully when my pain gets under control I’ll get some mobility back.
Im a result from a bad back operation I had a month ago. Im still in a rehab but not getting much help here other than getting my diaper changed ( when the workers feel like it ) since I can't move from the waist down. I wish i could tranfer from a chair to a bed but cant
Its only been a month and lost alot of weight in here . Worse thing here im much older than you guys but still have upper body control and a brain. Not giving up but its hard when they try and break your spirit here .
Thankyou for all your tips i use silding bord and i what to try and transfer my self thats my goal still cant but i love your positive outlook in life your a inspection to all 💕❤💜
I’m sort of a newbie do-over
I was doing reasonably well and a secondary injury happened.
It fkd me up in more ways than one.
Once injured with a severe SCI, it’s very easy to make zero tolerance bone kibble vertebrae do more damage. One wrong hard fall off my own porch, is all it took! A vehicle wheel went across my back from T12-L5. Luckily it was extremely muddy so the wet ground actually saved my life. Then I lose my balance and fall off my very tall porch. 😖
Now… it’s “Problematic Spasms” not the “oh Chance is healing kind.”
No, it’s the “oh no not again kind.” It’s like having your very own torture genie, and he’s a malevolent bastard with very BAD TIMING. He loves to play when anyone might get to see, because all I have to do is move wrong! And I don’t know exactly where wrong is right now.
So far no one has any answers, except this should settle down but may never totally go away.
It has become obvious that if I can keep swelling down, it’s not as bad. If my legs are swelling, my spine is an angry beast.
That can wipe out half a day sometimes. People don’t get that… I can’t make plans for much of anything if my legs won’t even bend enough to get in the WChair, or my Jeep, or whatever.
It’s become my new monster.
I feel like a freak show and I have never been anyone who wants or enjoys attention positive or negative.. so it’s eating at me bad.
I have some people around me that think they know more about me (and being mostly paralyzed) than I or a doctor does.
It’s simply their LOST EXPECTATIONS of me getting better. I was getting better and no one wants to face the facts that Chance has a huge problem without some fairly tale answer right now.
Oh sure they can take off both my legs and finish what the accident started and do a full chop.. it was actually mentioned as a consideration.
I’m like… I’m not ready to go there and hell no is my answer for now. That was offensive because it’s an end to the problem… I get that but my heart doesn’t. That ends way too much really fast.
I get so sick of “well, what are you gonna do?”
If I had that answer, I would already be gone!
I totally see how some of us become ass holes. I’m in my home. I haven’t asked for a dime. I never ask for help because it feeds the very problem I am having with normal people who ARE NOT ADAPTING with the only paraplegic among them.
They still see me tossing hay, jumping off docks, riding dirt bikes… I’m never saying I can’t again, just not today and prolly not tomorrow!
If I had one wish it wouldn’t be to plead for the spasms to stop, they will settle down (the nerves are dying, so it’s just time).
I would ask for normal people to just THINK before saying stuff that can’t be unsaid… especially in my home. My only place to find any stability in my life right now.
They question everything I do
& my very kind and gentle nature is getting really short fused.
Toxic BS has zero place in any situation where someone is forced to re-establish a whole new life, identity, way of thinking, moving, sleeping, going to the restroom, eating at a table,traveling… you name it. It has a big “F.U. Chance” sign invisibly hanging in front of it.
I get it! I just become less than I was. I don’t need my face rubbed in it.
I actually hope no one reads this… if they do I hope they understand and it’s simply a way for me to let out stuff, so I don’t lash out at people who refuse to think. I do love them more than I can express. I do try and see what I look like to them…
Then it hits you… NOTHING will ever be the same and it’s affecting EVERYONE, not just me.
Yet it is me that has to carry all this and all from something that was in no way my fault.
I’m very blessed to not have that huge burden that I know others do carry (even others concerning me).
I don’t want them to carry that.
I would rather not live then know I’m causing someone to carry guilt over what happened to me.
It’s life, and it’s messy, and shit happens, and it sux. Now we move on!
Once you grab hold of that and wrestle it out of your head, at least that healing begins.
Thanks for all the great videos you have made… This one hit home HARD!
It will get better or I will have to start weeding out some monsters (that use to seem to care)… Did they ever truly care, or was this an opportunity for them to have their own “disability” to whine about?
I’m nobody’s excuse… that I will get totally pissed over.
I don’t have the full answer, or maybe I’m refusing to say a truth that hurts too much right now.
It will pass, or I will have to make some changes on who comes here and causes my life to suck worse than usual.
I don’t want to have to do that, ever. 🤮
I’m not that guy, but I will keep my dignity and my sanity, or I eat a bullet. Death is not what I seek, so know that would be so far from who I am that’s it’s not even a consideration.
People hear a comment like that and think someone is about to off themself. No, its the ones who never say a word that people need to watch over.
Besides with my luck… it would be a 10x eternal event that extends this to repeat forever.
No thanks. Suffering a little while sounds pretty good in comparison.
Thanks man far from iarael 4 the videos.
Im a little over a year in a chair after i broke my back on a bike and im t5 complite.
Helps a lot
Thank you. ❤🙏🏾
My first language is not English, so I hope, I does not sound rude/mean in this comment:
I really like your channel and the content you create, but sometimes (to me) it looks like that your experiences and advices with your level of a SCI are sooo far away from those with higher-level-injuries as they really are in real life e. g. "comparing" a C5 quad with a T12 imcomplete para ...
I am a wheelchair-user myself, but I am fortunate to have full arm- and fingerfunction, no chronic-pain problems and a total different type of health-care-system, so I do not have to worry, how I should be able to pay for my meds or any type of aides (wheelchair, hospital-bed, etc.) out of my own pocket.
Thinking of one of my best friends, who lives in the US and happens to be a C5 complete quad, who has to deal with a lot of pain 24/7 and does not know how to cover the costs for his new wheelchair (his old power-wheelchair is more than 11 years old) and all the ongoing medical costs for the "daily needed stuff", I think, it´s impossible for somebody in his situation to really follow a lot of your suggestions, because he has no chance to be as fit and as independend as you are ... !
And please, don´t get me wrong, it´s not meant rude in any way.
I just wanted to say, that I watch all of your videos, but thinking of this awesome guy e. g., unfortunately most things are "impossible or out of reach for him" due to having a higher level of injury and therefore not the same options you (and I) have or can try to archive !
Sonja K. Yes, there are some things that are out of reach. Sadly, that’s the nature of the injury. You really can not compare injuries (paras and quads) because they’re different in many ways. However, there are still a lot of things they can both do. They might have to do it in different ways to accomplish it. Sorry this was a little all over. I keep editing it. :) - paraplegic 20 years.
@@nygirlinancworld1628
Thank you so much for your reply !
I still hope, the channel owner will not be mad at me for writing this comment.
We ware always told how fortunated we are due to our healthcare-system compared to people in the US e. g. , but actually "talking to a real person" was kind of a shock to me ...
It´s so unfair, that it is all about the money and sometimes even the money your parents can spend on your behalf - while we are almost treated like "spoiled brats" (most of the time), just because of living in a different country.
Not having all the pain meds or spasm meds you need, because you can´t afford them all the time sounds horrible ...
And it makes me sad, that I also do not have the money to really help to get the needed stuff, although this guy I am talking about would really deserve it ... !
Hi Sonja! No worries, you’re not making me mad at all and you have a good point.
Being a quad is much harder and different than being a para (like me). However, there are quite a few quads who watch my videos and enjoy them.
Our injuries are like fingerprints. They are all uniquely different.
The challenge is that I can’t make videos for everyone, because I’m not everyone, I’m me. I can only share my experience and knowledge about my life and my specific disability.
My hope is that i inspire a bunch of other people with a bunch of different kind of injuries to make videos like mine so we can all learn from each other.
Thanks for your comment! 😁😊
@@Wheels2Walking
Oh, Richard - it took a while for me to realize the fact, that you do not know, that is was me, who "just" pressed the like button to your reply.
So, "thanks again", for not getting me wrong and all the best and lots of Love to you from Germany !
💙💜💚 from India.... you are great .. wish 1day i can meet you !
You are so inspiring.
Hi Orlando! Thanks :) has there been anything specific I have inspired you to do?
5 months after spinal surgery omg this is hard !!
I love u
U are a good person and wonderful so keep what u doing and I wish u the best in your life
Just do your rutine and make time to do what you like make friends do what make you happy, be happy to be alive and use every moment im 14 years using chair lot of pain lot of efort and much more smile and happy moments
Great comment! I love this :)
@@Wheels2Walking thanks
Thanks for the videos!
Great vid Richard!
Thanks Kim! Thanks for always watching and commenting. It means a lot to me 😊
Technical advice: Music is too loud, voice is too quiet. When you are talking, I need to raise the volume so I can understand you. When you pause, I lower the volume because the music becomes too loud. This is in most of you videos.
I do not have intention to offend you or something, just sharing an idea.
Best wishes!
Thanks. This helps
I think above all else, don’t wallow in self pity wondering why you’re in the situation you’re in. No matter how bad things may be..... and this applies to all aspects of life not just disability...... there’s always someone dealing with something worse. In a wheelchair.... there’s people who may never set foot out of a hospital bed. Stuck in a hospital bed.... there’s people who have died from their injuries. Have difficulty moving your legs.... there’s people who can’t move their arms therefor they can’t do simple tasks such as scratching their face or feeding themselves. Be grateful for what ABILITIES you have instead of thinking about the DISability.
Great information...
NOTIFICATION GANG
GANG GANG
Careful about goal setting tho. Dont set unrealist goals
The sucktastic part is there are very few if any people like me. I have multiple genetic conditions that are contributing to me losing the use of my legs and eventually bladder and bowels. I've been searching for years with no success in finding anyone else like me. I am not giving up but not sure where else to look either.
Do you know about the “spoonies”? They’re a group of people with chronic illnesses that all deal with a bunch of different stuff.
Wheels2Walking Yes, I recently met someone who is in a few and I am looking into some of the FB groups to see which one(s) are right for me. Thanks.
I think that dude might have his own sort of disability 5:15
I think the biggest question here is how in the world did you get that one shot of the guy holding your shoulder flying horizontally? Is that photo real or are you The Flash?
A superhero never reveals his secrets lol
That kid though 5:15
youre a badass 😎✌🏻
Thanks! 😁
5:16 wtf was this guy doing