Since my accident there is one past memory I can't seem to get out of my head. As many of you know I worked previously as a personal trainier with professional alternative sports athletes. One of those being Joe Parsons for the 2010 winter X Games. As many know X Games events are spread out like the Olympics so there is much downtime.
During one of our breaks we were back at the condo watching some of the other competitions on the television. We were marveling over the abilities of the athletes during adaptive ski cross. In the finals race there was a particular paraplegic in a ski chair that was winning. As he went over the 60 foot booter jump that was the finish line adrenaline and excitement got the best of him. He came in way hot and over cleared it by about 15 feet. He was violently slapped into the ground. His head was digging into the snow forcing cold icy wetness into his face and mouth as he slid for a good hundred feet or so downhill. The entire time he had his fist raised high in the air, punching the sky in jubilation over the gold medal he just earned. Finally coming to a stop the paramedics quickly ran over to account for his health status after such a forceful ugly crash.
The camera man was actually able to get close enough as the EMT's did their due diligence that the mic was able to pickup there conversation. They went through their checks and routine questions to determine his status. He quickly exclaimed to all "I can't feel my legs!". I enjoyed the same reaction as all of the EMTs with a chuckle to myself.
I keep remembering this story because the man's attitude is a constant reminder to me of what it can accomplish. Perspective is everything. I hope I have such a moment to crack wit in one of my many future outings that diffuses the tension and reminds others that I will not be held down. A situation that will lead to the reminder that this isn't the end but just a new chapter with new goals and new accomplishments.
