Guest Blog: 'My friend is more than a wheelchair', by Peter S.
Monday, December 21, 2009 at 10:53AM Here is the winning blog competition entry - a story of friendship and of triumph over adversity.
Many thanks to Peter S, who wrote the blog. Peter has decided to receive a voucher to contribute towards the cost of a Nomad MRK1, for his friend.
'My friend is more than a wheelchair'
I have a close friend who is wheelchair bound. We had been friends for over 5 years before his accident, so I had always known him as able bodied and never gave that element of ur friendship a second though.
It is now nearly seven years since my friend had a serious car accident in which broke his back (among other injuries). He had sustained a T6 injury to his spine which meant he was paralysed from the lower chest down but had to wait for his leg and arm to heal before he could be transferred down to a specialist spinal unit, were he could be given treatment and rehabilitation.
He spent 5 months in hospital, were he had to gain the strength back in the arm he broke so that he could use a wheelchair, which he was told he would need for the rest of his life. During all that time he had managed to remain positive and whilst in hospital, he saw many other people with spinal injuries much worse than his. Their ability to be mobile and to lead a normal life inspired him (and us) no end.
I was initially very worried when he had his accident and we found out he would be paralysed, as I had no experience with wheelchairs or wheelchair users. I didn't know what to say when we fist visited, where to look, or anything. I soon learned that this was my problem though, and after spending time in the ward with many wheelchair users, I realised that these were people, not wheelchair users.
In the seven years since his accident my friend has started doing loads of activities, and he leads a life most 'able bodied' people would find tiring! He didn't give a second thought to any obstacles that got in the way (pressure sores, spasms, stairs!!!) and he travels a lot. He also says that though he lost the use of his lower body his mind and imagination was opened up more than it was before his accident and is enjoying his life and the challenges it brings him. I am so proud to be his friend and he inspires me every day.
When we go out now, in bars, shops, or anywhere, you can spot the people who aren't used to dealing with wheelchairs - the uncomfortable look, or a concious effort not to be uncomfortable, are always a dead giveaway! I should know, that was me seven years ago! We don't get angry, we just smile and get on with things. It's their problem and if anything, we pity them.
All I know is that my friend is my friend, wheelchair or not. He's the strongest man I know and I just want to say that I'm glad that we met all those years ago. He's taught me so much much. Thanks.
Peter S.
(Liverpool)
Nomad will be hoding another guest blog competition in the new year.
Thanks
The Nomad Team.

