Anthony, thank you for candidly sharing your accident so that other pilots can be safer and better informed. I started looking into PPG last August and watched your videos with the Gravity PM and almost bought one. I went with a quad instead and finished PPG2 in November 2023. My other hobby / passion is SAILING. I've been at it for 13 years. Alot of Vets sail....family can come along as well...as long as kids and wife don't get too sea sick. Texas has some really cool lakes! I'm up in Colorado, but we have trailered our 26 foot sailboat to Corpus Christi twice and sailed with the dolphins.
7:10 “I figured I would stay in the military for the rest of my life.” Same here brother, but I wasn’t given the option either. It was for the best though, I was mentally unable to continue on top of my physical injuries. I just didn’t accept it at that time. Thankfully therapy has helped a lot over the years. New subscriber here and cannot wait to see where you go from here with the channel.
Hey Anthony, I'm going to make a guess but it might be wrong and if it is then ignore the rest. It looks to me from some of your mannerisms that you might be on opioid pain medication. This is totally reasonable given your circumstances. However, be very, very careful and wean yourself off of them as soon as possible. Now this is a key point that traps a lot of people. When you are getting off of them your pain is going to get much worse. This is not your REAL pain level. It is a much enhanced version of your real pain level exacerbated by the withdrawal symptoms of the opioids. This is one of the things that traps people into a constant cycle of tolerance and increasing dosages for years. It is one of the things that trapped me. You get off of them and your pain convinces you that you cannot function without them but if you give it some time(it may take a month) it will calm down. I'm not an addict. I take my prescribed medication as prescribed and no more. In fact I've gone on voluntary weans of up to a year to reduce the dose. However, I am still on them 15 years later and the physical side effects of being on them are one of the main causes in my reduced quality of life. Good luck in your recovery. I'm glad to see seem to have a good support system.
I may still do a redemption flight! I think my wife would be ok with it AND I think that I’ll physically be able to as soon as my arm heals a little bit more. Stay tuned! 😁
Honestly, leaving while you're ahead and alive, thinking of your family, it's the best decision you can make. Teach others how to do it, but stay grounded. Family is more important than anything. I must likely have to walk away from my career of 30 years from multiple injuries, and continuing to work in my line of work with the multiple spinal injuries I have risks being able to care for my family. I'd rather not leave everything on my wife, including caring for me should I become unable to at 44. As much as I loathe the idea of working anywhere but my career, my family is first, and they to be able to function. Yeah, that "what if" will always be there, but so is the other side of "what if"; the "what if I kept with it?" is followed by "what if I kept with it and things went wrong?". Speedy recovery.
Don't sweat it, Anthony. I only broke my ankle. Took 6 months to recover, and then when I got back into flying, I went right back to pulling G's. It dawned on me that I only liked flying dangerously, and I shouldn't be doing it anymore.
It's that realization that it's only a matter of time before luck runs out. Aviation is like riding a sportbike....you have to constantly keep yourself in check, because the more comfortable you get, the more dangerous your habits become.
Thanks brother. I can definitely relate to this. In fact, it’s shocking how much people, like you, comment things that reshape my thinking. This comment from you is one of the comments that’ll have me thinking for days.
@@jamesordwayultralightpilot I know you’re right because I felt the full force of what happens when I push my luck. Like you said, aviation is particularly unforgiving, much like BASE jumping and street bikes.
I’ve been up a handful of times (tandem only) on paragliders and paramotors, but I used to ride sport bikes. I loved riding them beyond the limits of what was truly safe on public (albeit middle of nowhere) roads. As I crept up on 30 and had friends dying and getting injured time after time I started to realize how damn lucky I had been. I walked away; I miss the rush, the adrenaline of being in that flow state through corners was unbeatable, but I don’t regret it. Have you thought about flying fpv drones Anthony? It sort of combines being in the air and cameras too! Best of luck with whatever direction you go.
Good decision for the right reasons, honoring your family first. Hi, Anthony Vella here, welcome to my 2nd chance at life & and finding a new normal after paramotoring accident.
Thank you, Tonya! And are you still living in GA? The suggestion you made is so sweet. I appreciate that you think I’m making the right choice. I’d be lying if I said that it was an easy choice to make. I think I’m really going to miss flying. 😢 But obviously, my wife and children mean so much more to me, and it would pain them every time that I’d take off.
I think I’ve only mentioned it briefly once or twice on my channel that my wife and I own and operate a paramotoring flight school here in El Paso. BUT!!! You may be right. I’d assumed that I’d close up shop, but perhaps I’ll continue to teach people to fly with an even deeper appreciation for teaching my students to make wise decisions, before, during, and after EVERY flight. ❤️ www.flyeptx.com
I think that would be amazing. You can teach people to be safe and still make content and still be in the Paramotoring industry. I would definitely miss watching your videos. Please help train people to be safe and enjoy the sky.
@@AnthonyVellahow to do a risky sport, to get the adrenaline boost and all those positive feelings, but safely and while knowing your limits. What an amazing thing to be able to teach people.
"I crashed my flying machine in enchanted hills" 😭😭😭 the crash video was so raw but I couldn't f'ing contain myself when you said it like that to the 911 operator, please make it your intro😂😂 I hope you make a full recovery soon!! Maybe you could have a future in paramotor instructing😊
@@AnthonyVellaI would clip the actual video of the unfortunate accident and sample that audio over it as your opening intro clip. Then it cuts abruptly to you “Hi I’m Anthony…”
After kids, I gave up flying private planes, riding motorcycles, and limited scuba to rec reef diving only. I miss it all, but being there for them was WAY more important to me than taking personal risks.
Total respect for your decision. However, life is dangerous. Maybe I'll die one day on a motorcycle or skydiving or bungee jumping but I would much rather be pursuing my passions than give it all up and still die crossing the street because some idiot was texting.
Much respect to you for making this difficult decision. My father-in-law gave up motorcycling after having his girls and it was hard for him too. But family comes first always. “I’m Anthony Vella, and I’m here for my family”
Hey Vella, me again. I was at Ft Sam Houston with you in 2010 and didn't get to graduate with Foxtrot due to a spinal cord injury. I was abused by some of our cadre, and neglected by most of Ft Sam's medical system, but was able to get surgery, stay in and I'm currently 4 years away from my 20 year retirement. We had quite a few medics from our class go on to have some very traumatic deployments, so I'm glad that you were able to survive yours. Thanks for sharing your stories with others because it's so therapeutic and informative. I'm so thankful you survived and are able to be a part of this shared adventure with us a while longer 🎉❤
Hey brother! Wow! That is incredible that you and I have crossed paths again. Was the spinal cord injury at Camp Bullis (I dont know if I spelled that correctly)? I am really sorry to hear that you experienced that. But congratulations on being so close, relatively speaking, to retiring! That was my hope; To retire from the Army. That said, I am fortunate that I left the Army when I did, or else I wouldn’t have met my incredible wife here in El Paso. It’s great to hear from you, and I hope we can keep in touch on here.
It was a kinda freak accident that happened towards the end of BCT, but I was able to push through and get to AIT with the intention of getting it diagnosed and treated at Ft Sam... that was a nightmare, unfortunately. Nobody wanted to figure out what was causing it, so I was treated as a malingerer as my body broke down and the pain intensified. I didn't make it to Camp Bullis with you all, but I did finish a year later with Delta Co after battling my way through surgery and med hold 🎉
I hope so. I’d be lying if I said the decision was an easy one. Aside from my family, paramotoring has been my life and something that I’ve identified with. Well, there’s always BASE jumping. lol. Jk.
@@AnthonyVella I've been flying for 20 years and have several stretches of taking 2 to 3 years off. Just now getting back to flying regularly again after a 3 year break
It’s completely understandable and I think that this decision truly shows your maturity and manhood, putting your family and own safety first is commendable. Glad you came out OK and wish you and your loved ones all the best moving forward ❤️
When I saw your family during the very nice video about your loss of your friend Lee and then heard about your accident, it really affected me and I’m so thankful that you are recovering as well as you are. I’ve been flying hangs, paraglider ms and some ppg since the 70’s and while the rewards are big, the losses are terrible and there’s been plenty of them. I totally support your decision, you have a beautiful family, that’s everything.
Thank you very much for the support, Denny (I think that is your name based on your profile name). It’s been the most difficult decision that I have ever had to make. Who knows, perhaps years down the road, things could change. Flying means so much to me, but as you know, my wife and children mean an infinite amount more. If I were to fly again, it would worry them sick. I don’t want to put them through that, but it is so tough to not fly.
Is paramotoring that dangerous if you take steps to mitigate the risks? (fly high, use reserve parachute, rigorous pre flight check, fly only in good weather etc...).
Fantastic question. It’s such a great question, that it’s deserving of its own video! Thank you for the inspiration. Is that ok with you if I make a video on this for you instead of simply answering your question here in the comments? It’ll be my little gift to you.
@@AnthonyVellaGreat idea. it would also make a great podcast if you chatted with other pilots who have experienced trauma in the sport and made it through the other side and would also help you put your accident into perspective.
Seriously people saying mean things...WTF...what the hell is the matter with people. Never mind I know. Anthony, my heart breaks for you. Only you know what is the best for you and yours. Look at it this way, you maybe done for now, BUT you are young with a bright future. No one knows what the future holds, it could happen that your feet will leave the ground once again.
Maybe give general aviation a shot? As much as I love the idea of paramotoring the risks were not worth getting into for me because of my family and small children. I’m about halfway through getting my private pilots license and it’s a blast, although way more expensive than paramotoring. Flying GA gives me more of an opportunity to fly with family and my kids love being around airports and all things aviation. Love the videos and looking forward to whatever you get into next!
Thank you for the suggestion. Admittedly it’s one that-as you can tell from what I was saying in this video-I love the idea of! By the way, CONGRATS one pursuing your presumable dream of earning your pilots license! If you film one of your flight lessons, I’d happily watch and live vicariously through your experience. I actually can’t get my pilots license, but that’s a story for another time. Stay tuned for that one. 😁
Thank you, Josh. I hope that you feel as though you slowing down is a good thing, and I hope that you will still enjoy flying just as much as before seeing the videos covering my crash. Lastly, I hope you still watch my videos, even though the likelihood of me flying paramotors again is low, I will do my best to keep them valuable and entertaining.
@@AnthonyVella slowing down is a good thing. Watching your vids, heck yeah. Can't wait to see how much you bug your wife 😂. My wife likes me going to fly. That means she gets a couple hours of not having to put up with me 🤣
After say 2012 this sport has become more extreme with speed, acro and skilled pilots showing newbies stuff that 98%of pilots will never try or should in their flying time. I liked mid 2000s when it focused more on fly ins and adventure cross country flying without the excessive risk people seem to take. People hurt themselves or worse which then turns new pilots off the sport. Just cruise around,have fun in smooth air, take pictures and remember you're just flying the equivalent of a bed sheet with lines attached.😂
Well if you just make up your mind to make safe decisions and not risky ones like flying with accelerator bar 100 off the ground you might be all right. You be fine just make better decisions. I wouldn't quit over that. You don't always have to be on the fastest wing to have fun.
So, anthony. What will be your next hobby? Ive been eyeing electric unicycle. I just have to rebuild the battery on my 2015 NOS Airwheel x3 to go flying. Ok so it only goes 10 mph but it beats running.
I crashed my flying machine. It was my fault. I still fly. I also crashed my horse. I was banged up as bad as your paramotoring accident. The accidents did not make me loose my passion for the sports. I did see a satistic that did shock me. It was the number of people that are killed every year getting thier mail. I no longer get my mail 😂
I am Anthony Vella, and I survived a likely life-threatening Paramotor crash because I would not give up on my wife and children...no matter the pain and anguish I might experience...including the reality that I will never fly again. And if you didn't know, I served on the front line of a war against terrorism which was nothing compared to my crash. So, I am basically the best inspiration for you all to live your lives to the fullest.
A tough decision I'm sure. I'm personally happy you came to this decision for your yourself and your family and seem to be comfortable with it. Perhaps when they are grown and out of the house, and your elbow is functional without too much pain, you will revisit the sport. By then, we will surely have anti-gravity force fields. Kidding of course, but we do see gliders becoming safer every year. I still don't understand why they don't do an inflatable leading edge like we find in kite surfing. Altitude bladder expansion is not an issue for the first several thousand feet. Seriously, the average age in the sport is 50, so you and the other whipper snappers have been lucky to find it so early, but there are a lot of other experiences for you and the family to enjoy before you are in your 50's. We are going to lose a few people this year to paramotoring, just like every year I have been following the sport since 2017. I'm super glad we didn't lose you! You will excel at any endeavor you pursue. Talk to Leandra about the Sandal's modeling gig!
HAHA! Anti-gravity force fields. I love it. And yes, gliders have had massive improvements.As for inflatable leading edges, I imagine that it’s because it wouldn’t be practical in a PPG setting. I dont know, imagine that you’re enjoying a nice flight, when you discover that there is a gust front heading your way and you need to get down ASAP. As you touchdown gracefully, you have only seconds to get your glider balled up so that it doesn’t drag you to Oz. The likelihood of a puncture would be much higher since most people fly inland. And what if you dont recognize that there is a puncture until you’re 5,000’ above the ground… would the wing still fly safely if it lost all of the pressure in the leading edge? I dont know.
I really have no interest in paramotoring. I found a youtube short of your crash and went to find your channel to see if you made it - glad you did! I subbed because I like your delivery and humor.. I can't wait to see what you come up with next! Additionally - you said that you used to make videos about soldiers from their mother's perspective.... You may want to revisit that!
Hello Anthony, here what you should say “Hello I’m Anthony V, Life is hard with many hills and valleys. I lived through one of the biggest wrecks one can have in life. I’m here to share and teach others how you can get over huge life events”
Good decision. You only get one chance to be a father and a husband. Who knows, maybe one day when the kids are grown, you may decide to fly again. Glad to see you feeling better!
I have looked into paramotoring. I used to fly ultralight trikes when I was a young teen with my dad. Also what you should say " I'm Anthony vella, the aviator with a broken wing but not a broken heart" cheers.
I sub because of that crushing but leave the flying to the young guys your family needs you ill continue to watch you grow your channel in different ways
Crashed my PG at TPG a few years back. All my own fault. It took me years of self doubt and second guessing until I was able to fly again AND enjoy it. It took me getting into PPG last year to finally heal in my head. I went to Oludeniz this year again, finally. And enjoyed it again, finally! I'm sure the entire flying community stands with you and behind you. Take your time. We break far more than bones when we crash.
And I am alive to tell our story, Me my wife and our kids. also thanks for choosing a reasonable outcome for living life. filming video can be any subject, the audience will find your content, it sux starting over, however you are here to try again.
Why not fly? With altitude, safety chute, NO SPEED BAR, no speed runs..etc... Isn't it considerd safe? If you heal to the point of being able to paramotor again (and still want to), you should. My two cents.
I appreciate your two cents. To answer your question, if I could get my wife (and kids) to feel comfortable with me flying again, I will fly again. This is all still very fresh to them. Perhaps with time, they will come around to the idea of my flying paramotors again.
I am happy to hear that. And it makes me feel better knowing that I am not alone in giving up something that WE love for the one thing WE love most in this world; Our wives.
That means so much to me. Today has been physically and emotionally challenging. Your comment has worked to turn my day into a more positive one. Thank you. 🙏
Great video, Mr. Vella. So glad you are still with us and can still be an awesome husband and father! (I would be lying if I said I didn’t wish you’d give it time, get yourself a huge, slow, bus-of-an-A wing and just chill at 25 mph. 😉)
I remember seeing you a few times in the sky around El Paso and you have really motivated me to get a paramotor in the future! Regardless of the accident! I hope you heal soon and I’m exited to keep watching your content in the future!
I gotta say I’m new to your channel and I really appreciate what you’re doing. Sorry for your injuries, but but but. I’m also a vet of the army and obviously I don’t understand all that has gone on in your life. But I have a story of my own. I’m 48 years old, three months ago I had a massive accident on a motocross bike. Broke six ribs, my clavicle, and a collapsed lung. But month ago, I went back out to the track and started riding again. My perspective life is worth living and by taking as many precautions to do the things you love lightning strike once in a while, but it doesn’t constantly storm. Do you love my brother and your family will love you more for it. They may have anxiety and they may reflect choices, but just as your dad did, he walked his journey and lived his life to the fullest.love your family when you can because one day we all will meet God. Life is too short to forgo your passions.
New subscriber since the accident- The shots of you and Leandra talking to each other made me emotional. The way you look at each other and speak to each other, the connection is so evident and beautiful. I’m so glad that you survived the crash, and I wish you well with whatever you decide to do. You are clearly a talented videographer, and you have a very soothing and captivating way about you; I would love to watch whatever you come up with.
Ditto. Your (well, his) storytelling is awesome! Honestly, you could make videos about absolutely anything and many of us would keep watching. But traumatic events from loved ones' perspectives could be so healing for people, if done well. Which with your experiences it absolutely would be.
Hola amigo. Sufrí un accidente mucho mejor al tuyo en parapente en febrero de este año. Te admiro por que comparto la misma pasión que tú por la aviación. A diferencia tuya mi lesión si afectó la médula y mi recuperación es diferente. Pienso mucho en volver a volar pero también pienso en mi hijo y que solo tenemos un cuerpo. Aparte somos seres que se equivocan. Pero podemos tomar desiciones gracias a Dios. Cuídate mucho y darle gracias a Dios por tu extraordinaria recuperación.
I deeply admire that you are putting your family first, and I think I would make the same difficult call if I found myself in your position. I've been interested in PPG for a while and plan to train with a USPPA instructor next year, and your videos and experience have both inspired me as well as caused me to approach the sport with a much greater sense of respect and mindfulness for safety.
I appreciate it Gregor! 😸When my shirt comes off, you definitely notice. My right (mangled) arm is shockingly smaller than my left (good) arm. Plus there’s all of the scars…but chicks dig it, right? 😹 Hope to meet you someday. Have you ever come to the US?
I saw this on facebook and it didn't have any context. I am glad I found your channel and I am happy you look great! I was listening to you in pain and fear and my heart sunk. You are right one of my biggest fears is not death itself, but leaving my family behind to soon or them passing before me. God bless you.
Your accident made me think of a possible invention I worked on a ways back for people who get in bike/motorcycle accidents. It was similar to an airbag you could wear on your body... Hmm I think I just had an idea to make it safer to deploy and a much better material for breaking the fall...
My have 3 kids all under 4-years-old. We watch a lot of Bluey, I mean A LOT! There is an episode called "Dance Mode" where they make their Dad (Bandit) dance in public. Right before he does, he announces, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm doing this for my kids". First, watch the episode, they're great. Second, your intro should be, "I'm Anthony Vella and I'm doing this for my kids".
Wow! Backstory and all! First of all, we are HUGE Bluey lovers in this household. 😂 My wife especially. Something, I get the feeling that she loves the show even more than our 4 kiddos. In fact, that is one of our favorite episodes; You can imagine how much I am appreciating your comment. I think it’s a fantastic idea for an introduction! And I would venture to guess that my wife loves the idea as well. I’m sure she’ll chime in on your comment soon enough. Anyways, THANK YOU for commenting this. It contributing to a great morning. 😁
As for hobbies, you dont have to quit aviation. Just because you've made the decision to not paraglide does not mean you can not enjoy anything related to flying. The RC Car community is awesome here in El Paso, and im sure there is a helicopter and airplane group here. Just my humble response. Im so glad you're doing well! Stay safe.
Rules, laws and legends are made by making mistakes and learning from them. I see a next chapter here for the Vella family. I believe in you. Keep up your spirits don’t let the negativity deter you. You are another mentor in this community for thousands of people of the past and I’m sure more to come. Definitely looking forward to more ❤
Anthony. I never comment on videos, but this one I must. Don’t stop doing your passion. Ratchet it back. I am 60 years old and a skydiver, BASE jumper, Wingsuiter, Paraglider and Paramotor pilot. Like you, I hammered myself on a BASE jump, and felt all the same emotions I heard in this video. Just dial it back. You don’t have to go mach 3 with your hair on fire to get likes and views. Get a trike like mine and fly within the envelope. Whatever you decide, just don’t loose your passion for adventure and your joy in paramotoring. Thats why we watch your content, not to see you risk your life. I had a bunch of close friends who were great BASE and Wingsuit fliers. I don’t have them anymore. Anyway my two cents. Aloha from Maui.
Wow. Powerful words. I really appreciate it. The truth is, I don’t think my wife would be comfortable at all if I continue to fly. The pain that she must have experienced when she received the news from me was immense. She almost received the news from someone else. Maybe a police officer knocking at the front door. With time, I think she’ll become ok with me flying again. And when that day comes, you can bet your ass that I’ll be back to paramotoring and skydiving. MAN I miss it already and I still can’t physically do it. Haha. Thanks so much for reaching out to me, and I hope you continue to watch my videos. 😁🤙🏼
I'm amazed that after such an horrendous injury to your elbow that you are showing movement with the arm and hand which looks almost normal after this brief period of healing. Following the incredible progress of your rehabilitation is interesting and inspiring. I think making a decision about flying this soon after the accident is premature and that you should wait until your fitness level can be determined after the fullest possible healing has completed. It might be that physically you may not recover the necessary fitness to be able to paramotor again, on the other hand if you are able to regain the fitness required to paramotor the pressure to go back on an early decision to quit flying might be hard to resist. Anthony, you and your wife are a wonderful couple and I feel it is a privilege to be part of your channel where you share some of your life experiences. Thanks for posting and best wishes for your continued recovery from your accident.
I really appreciate it, Barry. I cut out some of the recording (since I have a habit of rambling on), but I had mentioned at one point that, out of all of the comments that I get, I appreciate the ones that are more than a couple of sentences because it feels like more of a connection was established with the viewer. Then I have more of an opportunity to have a real conversation, which is very rewarding to me. My elbow, as you mentioned, is doing so much better, but it still has a very long way to go. On the bright side of things, I have started to sleep with the arm brace off, and boy oh boy, is that awesome! My doctor has also authorized me to hold/lift items that are about 10 lbs or less. I will do a video that is much more focused on the progress of my injuries in a future video. In response to your thoughts that making a decision on whether or not I will fly again may be premature, I don’t disagree. In fact, I feel a lot of stress over the decision and it is one that very well could change in the future (hence, why it was premature). But the number one reason that I am stating that I won’t fly again is because of my wife’s fear that I would get hurt or killed if I went back up. But I know that she trusts me, and if I tell her that I am confident that I can avoid the things that would cause me to crash, she could change the way she feels about me flying again. Thank you very much for the kind words. I am more than happy to share this journey on my channel because kind people like you will appreciate and contribute their thoughts in response to the videos that I put out. So thank you, and you’re welcome. I will keep you updated on my recovery.
I completely empathize. You're a type A person, and you're very fresh into a life altering event. I was a "rapid" skydiver before having a family, and I had to quit cold turkey. I had close friends die in the sport and witnessed some terrible injuries, and was accepting of the risks vs the rewards when I didn't have a family to raise. I was flying a very highly loaded elliptical when I left the sport, and I loved to do hop and pops to aggressively fly that canopy. Was so passionate about it that I worked as a per diem contract nurse so I could always jump if the weather was good. When I left it I was just kind of lost for a bit; I knew it was the best choice, but it certainly wasn't a satisfying one. But I had a kid, so I got a mundane 9 to 5, and made my children my focus. After kids' HS was done, I bought a vintage Cessna140 to get back into "safe" aviation, but it wasn't the same as hanging under a canopy among the clouds, or buzzing inches above the ground. That desire to get back that feeling of really living without all the limitations of planes--led me to your channel and inspired me to get into paramotors. Down the road, you will find as I did that being there for your kids and their life milestones is the most important and satisfying thing, and you may just find your way back to to the sport--imagine what the changes to the sport will look like by then. Heck, everyone may be on 4 stroke EFIs, who knows? Paramotoring didn't look anything like it does today when I quit jumping in 2000. I do hope you stay in the business and continue to train safe flyers. I'm looking forward to doing business with you!
God bless you Anthony. Glad you’re ok brother. You are so strong with a great head on your shoulders and great sense of humor. Bless you and your family. There are a million hobbies you will pick up that are on the ground. I’m an “adrenaline junky” myself. Always wanted to paramotor and maybe I’d love to just a couple times… but for now I’ll stick with boating, fishing, and biking😅. God bless brother
I think this is a good decision - a hard brave decision to come to but that was needed. If you ever waver, just go back to the spot in your crash video where you wife arrives and she says 'What happened?' - it's not just the pain in her voice, it's the confusion, the utter bewilderment at what was going on. It would give even the biggest adrenaline junkies pause.
I would love to. And I still keep in touch with many of the ones from the past. Thankfully, there aren’t any new Gold Star Mothers since our nation’s young men aren’t out fighting in any wars (knock on wood). Let us pray that that doesn’t change. When I was filming the stories on them, they’d only recently become Gold Star Mothers. That was almost 15 years ago that I was creating those videos.
Much respect for you bro. Would be awesome if you did a “call-in” session where new and used paramotor pilots could call in and ask different questions they’ve had. Anyway, it doesn’t matter if you never fly again, other than your personal enjoyment. No one looks at you different because you no longer fly. We still look at you as the Anthony that put out these mad videos that were exciting and full of life and even tho you can’t put new flying vids out, I bet you have tons of footage that no one’s ever seen. Looking forward to the next video, much love bro. Stay safe.
Of course you can paramotor again. You are CHOOSING not to. That is the choice of a devoted, sacrificial, loving husband, father and man. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. God be with you and your family moving forward.
It thrills my heart to see the progress you’re making healing up. Still praying every day that the Lord wraps his healing hands around you and continues to give you miraculous healing. I’m anxiously awaiting to see how God uses this terrible event to bring you into a new and even more exciting chapter of your journey. You’re an inspiration my friend. Love you brother!
Love seeing you back in the video game. You’re a natural content creator. You’ll do well even with both feet on ground, but something tells me you’ll be back in air just with very different approach. Maybe rescue helicopter pilot?🤷♂️
"I’m Anthony Vella, the paramotor fella, who crashed and lived to tell ya.”
In the voice of “WHACKY WAVING INFLATABLE ARM FLAILING TUBE MAN”
As I typed arm flailing tube man I felt bad for Anthony 😢
@maxamus3377 watch my latest video. 😉
@@AnthonyVella Was your dad with the FBI?
Anthony, thank you for candidly sharing your accident so that other pilots can be safer and better informed. I started looking into PPG last August and watched your videos with the Gravity PM and almost bought one. I went with a quad instead and finished PPG2 in November 2023.
My other hobby / passion is SAILING. I've been at it for 13 years. Alot of Vets sail....family can come along as well...as long as kids and wife don't get too sea sick. Texas has some really cool lakes! I'm up in Colorado, but we have trailered our 26 foot sailboat to Corpus Christi twice and sailed with the dolphins.
Hey man, I’ve came here to pray for you and to offer you my best regards. I thank God that you’re still here with us, your fall was awful.
7:10 “I figured I would stay in the military for the rest of my life.” Same here brother, but I wasn’t given the option either. It was for the best though, I was mentally unable to continue on top of my physical injuries. I just didn’t accept it at that time. Thankfully therapy has helped a lot over the years. New subscriber here and cannot wait to see where you go from here with the channel.
Hey Anthony, I'm going to make a guess but it might be wrong and if it is then ignore the rest. It looks to me from some of your mannerisms that you might be on opioid pain medication. This is totally reasonable given your circumstances. However, be very, very careful and wean yourself off of them as soon as possible. Now this is a key point that traps a lot of people. When you are getting off of them your pain is going to get much worse. This is not your REAL pain level. It is a much enhanced version of your real pain level exacerbated by the withdrawal symptoms of the opioids. This is one of the things that traps people into a constant cycle of tolerance and increasing dosages for years. It is one of the things that trapped me. You get off of them and your pain convinces you that you cannot function without them but if you give it some time(it may take a month) it will calm down. I'm not an addict. I take my prescribed medication as prescribed and no more. In fact I've gone on voluntary weans of up to a year to reduce the dose. However, I am still on them 15 years later and the physical side effects of being on them are one of the main causes in my reduced quality of life. Good luck in your recovery. I'm glad to see seem to have a good support system.
dang i was really hoping for 1 final comeback. But definitely hope this all helps you and youre family
I may still do a redemption flight! I think my wife would be ok with it AND I think that I’ll physically be able to as soon as my arm heals a little bit more. Stay tuned! 😁
Honestly, leaving while you're ahead and alive, thinking of your family, it's the best decision you can make. Teach others how to do it, but stay grounded.
Family is more important than anything.
I must likely have to walk away from my career of 30 years from multiple injuries, and continuing to work in my line of work with the multiple spinal injuries I have risks being able to care for my family. I'd rather not leave everything on my wife, including caring for me should I become unable to at 44. As much as I loathe the idea of working anywhere but my career, my family is first, and they to be able to function. Yeah, that "what if" will always be there, but so is the other side of "what if"; the "what if I kept with it?" is followed by "what if I kept with it and things went wrong?".
Speedy recovery.
I'm not sure a broken spine counts as 'being ahead', but at least he learned the lesson
You can do it again, but you made a smart, rational decision. Blue Skies.
Don't sweat it, Anthony. I only broke my ankle. Took 6 months to recover, and then when I got back into flying, I went right back to pulling G's. It dawned on me that I only liked flying dangerously, and I shouldn't be doing it anymore.
It's that realization that it's only a matter of time before luck runs out. Aviation is like riding a sportbike....you have to constantly keep yourself in check, because the more comfortable you get, the more dangerous your habits become.
Thanks brother. I can definitely relate to this. In fact, it’s shocking how much people, like you, comment things that reshape my thinking. This comment from you is one of the comments that’ll have me thinking for days.
@@jamesordwayultralightpilot I know you’re right because I felt the full force of what happens when I push my luck. Like you said, aviation is particularly unforgiving, much like BASE jumping and street bikes.
I’ve been up a handful of times (tandem only) on paragliders and paramotors, but I used to ride sport bikes. I loved riding them beyond the limits of what was truly safe on public (albeit middle of nowhere) roads. As I crept up on 30 and had friends dying and getting injured time after time I started to realize how damn lucky I had been. I walked away; I miss the rush, the adrenaline of being in that flow state through corners was unbeatable, but I don’t regret it.
Have you thought about flying fpv drones Anthony? It sort of combines being in the air and cameras too! Best of luck with whatever direction you go.
@alantesser1645 why don't you still do that, but on a track?
Good decision for the right reasons, honoring your family first.
Hi, Anthony Vella here, welcome to my 2nd chance at life & and finding a new normal after paramotoring accident.
Thank you, Tonya! And are you still living in GA?
The suggestion you made is so sweet. I appreciate that you think I’m making the right choice. I’d be lying if I said that it was an easy choice to make. I think I’m really going to miss flying. 😢 But obviously, my wife and children mean so much more to me, and it would pain them every time that I’d take off.
@@AnthonyVellawait the minute.... TONYA FROM GTA 5?????
Unfunny kid @@2Gud2Btru.
Start training people. Start a school. Then you’re still in Paramotoring. You would be a great teacher and still post to TH-cam.
That's an awesome idea
I think I’ve only mentioned it briefly once or twice on my channel that my wife and I own and operate a paramotoring flight school here in El Paso. BUT!!! You may be right. I’d assumed that I’d close up shop, but perhaps I’ll continue to teach people to fly with an even deeper appreciation for teaching my students to make wise decisions, before, during, and after EVERY flight. ❤️
www.flyeptx.com
@@JimTheKidI agree!
I think that would be amazing. You can teach people to be safe and still make content and still be in the Paramotoring industry. I would definitely miss watching your videos. Please help train people to be safe and enjoy the sky.
@@AnthonyVellahow to do a risky sport, to get the adrenaline boost and all those positive feelings, but safely and while knowing your limits. What an amazing thing to be able to teach people.
"I crashed my flying machine in enchanted hills" 😭😭😭 the crash video was so raw but I couldn't f'ing contain myself when you said it like that to the 911 operator, please make it your intro😂😂 I hope you make a full recovery soon!! Maybe you could have a future in paramotor instructing😊
Haha. So like, “My name is Anthony Vella, and I’ve crashed my flying machine in Enchanted Hills”?
@@AnthonyVella Yes, this is the one
@@AnthonyVella Yes! I was gonna suggest that "... And I crashed my flying machine"
@@AnthonyVella"My name is Anthony Vella, and I'm the dude who crashed my flying machine in the enchanted hills" 🤣🤣
@@AnthonyVellaI would clip the actual video of the unfortunate accident and sample that audio over it as your opening intro clip. Then it cuts abruptly to you “Hi I’m Anthony…”
You look remarkably better
After kids, I gave up flying private planes, riding motorcycles, and limited scuba to rec reef diving only. I miss it all, but being there for them was WAY more important to me than taking personal risks.
Total respect for your decision. However, life is dangerous. Maybe I'll die one day on a motorcycle or skydiving or bungee jumping but I would much rather be pursuing my passions than give it all up and still die crossing the street because some idiot was texting.
Much respect to you for making this difficult decision. My father-in-law gave up motorcycling after having his girls and it was hard for him too. But family comes first always.
“I’m Anthony Vella, and I’m here for my family”
Awe man! The suggestions were supposed to make me laugh, not cry! I love this.
Hey Vella, me again. I was at Ft Sam Houston with you in 2010 and didn't get to graduate with Foxtrot due to a spinal cord injury. I was abused by some of our cadre, and neglected by most of Ft Sam's medical system, but was able to get surgery, stay in and I'm currently 4 years away from my 20 year retirement. We had quite a few medics from our class go on to have some very traumatic deployments, so I'm glad that you were able to survive yours. Thanks for sharing your stories with others because it's so therapeutic and informative. I'm so thankful you survived and are able to be a part of this shared adventure with us a while longer 🎉❤
Hey brother! Wow! That is incredible that you and I have crossed paths again. Was the spinal cord injury at Camp Bullis (I dont know if I spelled that correctly)? I am really sorry to hear that you experienced that. But congratulations on being so close, relatively speaking, to retiring! That was my hope; To retire from the Army. That said, I am fortunate that I left the Army when I did, or else I wouldn’t have met my incredible wife here in El Paso. It’s great to hear from you, and I hope we can keep in touch on here.
It was a kinda freak accident that happened towards the end of BCT, but I was able to push through and get to AIT with the intention of getting it diagnosed and treated at Ft Sam... that was a nightmare, unfortunately. Nobody wanted to figure out what was causing it, so I was treated as a malingerer as my body broke down and the pain intensified. I didn't make it to Camp Bullis with you all, but I did finish a year later with Delta Co after battling my way through surgery and med hold 🎉
Best decision for you and your family.
I hope so. I’d be lying if I said the decision was an easy one. Aside from my family, paramotoring has been my life and something that I’ve identified with. Well, there’s always BASE jumping. lol. Jk.
Maybe revisit paramotoring when your kids are older and out of the house?
@@AnthonyVella I've been flying for 20 years and have several stretches of taking 2 to 3 years off. Just now getting back to flying regularly again after a 3 year break
It’s completely understandable and I think that this decision truly shows your maturity and manhood, putting your family and own safety first is commendable. Glad you came out OK and wish you and your loved ones all the best moving forward ❤️
When I saw your family during the very nice video about your loss of your friend Lee and then heard about your accident, it really affected me and I’m so thankful that you are recovering as well as you are. I’ve been flying hangs, paraglider ms and some ppg since the 70’s and while the rewards are big, the losses are terrible and there’s been plenty of them. I totally support your decision, you have a beautiful family, that’s everything.
Thank you very much for the support, Denny (I think that is your name based on your profile name). It’s been the most difficult decision that I have ever had to make. Who knows, perhaps years down the road, things could change. Flying means so much to me, but as you know, my wife and children mean an infinite amount more. If I were to fly again, it would worry them sick. I don’t want to put them through that, but it is so tough to not fly.
Is paramotoring that dangerous if you take steps to mitigate the risks? (fly high, use reserve parachute, rigorous pre flight check, fly only in good weather etc...).
Fantastic question. It’s such a great question, that it’s deserving of its own video! Thank you for the inspiration. Is that ok with you if I make a video on this for you instead of simply answering your question here in the comments? It’ll be my little gift to you.
@@AnthonyVella Looking forward to it! Thanks :)
@@AnthonyVellaGreat idea. it would also make a great podcast if you chatted with other pilots who have experienced trauma in the sport and made it through the other side and would also help you put your accident into perspective.
The connection that you and your wife have is amazing. Such an incredible bond and inspiration.
I can relate to that desire to not want to risk it. You know you'll always be my TH-cam mentor.
Seriously people saying mean things...WTF...what the hell is the matter with people. Never mind I know. Anthony, my heart breaks for you. Only you know what is the best for you and yours. Look at it this way, you maybe done for now, BUT you are young with a bright future. No one knows what the future holds, it could happen that your feet will leave the ground once again.
Maybe give general aviation a shot? As much as I love the idea of paramotoring the risks were not worth getting into for me because of my family and small children. I’m about halfway through getting my private pilots license and it’s a blast, although way more expensive than paramotoring. Flying GA gives me more of an opportunity to fly with family and my kids love being around airports and all things aviation.
Love the videos and looking forward to whatever you get into next!
Thank you for the suggestion. Admittedly it’s one that-as you can tell from what I was saying in this video-I love the idea of!
By the way, CONGRATS one pursuing your presumable dream of earning your pilots license! If you film one of your flight lessons, I’d happily watch and live vicariously through your experience. I actually can’t get my pilots license, but that’s a story for another time. Stay tuned for that one. 😁
Glad to see you doing well! Speedy Recovery 🙏
Mate, it's so good to see you in a video laughing and smiling. Glad you are ok and looking forward to future videos.
Good choice. Family always first. Your videos have made me take a step back and slow down on my flying, but for a good reason. Stay strong.
Thank you, Josh. I hope that you feel as though you slowing down is a good thing, and I hope that you will still enjoy flying just as much as before seeing the videos covering my crash. Lastly, I hope you still watch my videos, even though the likelihood of me flying paramotors again is low, I will do my best to keep them valuable and entertaining.
@@AnthonyVella slowing down is a good thing. Watching your vids, heck yeah. Can't wait to see how much you bug your wife 😂. My wife likes me going to fly. That means she gets a couple hours of not having to put up with me 🤣
Haha! I will try to get my wife to look on the bright side of things like that as well. Haha
I got you, get into fpv it has all the flying thrill with out the danger.
I’m Anthony Vella, I crashed my falling machine.
After say 2012 this sport has become more extreme with speed, acro and skilled pilots showing newbies stuff that 98%of pilots will never try or should in their flying time.
I liked mid 2000s when it focused more on fly ins and adventure cross country flying without the excessive risk people seem to take.
People hurt themselves or worse which then turns new pilots off the sport.
Just cruise around,have fun in smooth air, take pictures and remember you're just flying the equivalent of a bed sheet with lines attached.😂
Well if you just make up your mind to make safe decisions and not risky ones like flying with accelerator bar 100 off the ground you might be all right. You be fine just make better decisions. I wouldn't quit over that. You don't always have to be on the fastest wing to have fun.
Honestly it’s better to quit, u need to set ur priorities straight which is (YOUR FAMILY)
You have kids so it’s just not worth it. 👍
Happy birthday, now you have two birthdays!
Wow…that’s deeply thought provoking. I will remember that day as my 2nd birthday from now on. ❤
So, anthony. What will be your next hobby? Ive been eyeing electric unicycle. I just have to rebuild the battery on my 2015 NOS Airwheel x3 to go flying. Ok so it only goes 10 mph but it beats running.
It only took a close friend dying and near fatal life changing injuries to yourself to reach this decision.
Good job, I guess
Why not fly a safe a or b glider, and not push the limits, just enjoy sightseeing. Paramotor is as safe or dangerous as the pilot wants to make it.
do what's right for you and know there's still tough times ahead - keep people close
That's why I got into it and right out of it. Cloth wings are. Cool but not as safe as a fixed wing
Happy Fathers Day Brother, Isaiah 40:31❤💪🏼
I crashed my flying machine. It was my fault. I still fly. I also crashed my horse. I was banged up as bad as your paramotoring accident. The accidents did not make me loose my passion for the sports. I did see a satistic that did shock me. It was the number of people that are killed every year getting thier mail. I no longer get my mail 😂
I am Anthony Vella, and I survived a likely life-threatening Paramotor crash because I would not give up on my wife and children...no matter the pain and anguish I might experience...including the reality that I will never fly again. And if you didn't know, I served on the front line of a war against terrorism which was nothing compared to my crash. So, I am basically the best inspiration for you all to live your lives to the fullest.
A tough decision I'm sure. I'm personally happy you came to this decision for your yourself and your family and seem to be comfortable with it. Perhaps when they are grown and out of the house, and your elbow is functional without too much pain, you will revisit the sport. By then, we will surely have anti-gravity force fields. Kidding of course, but we do see gliders becoming safer every year. I still don't understand why they don't do an inflatable leading edge like we find in kite surfing. Altitude bladder expansion is not an issue for the first several thousand feet. Seriously, the average age in the sport is 50, so you and the other whipper snappers have been lucky to find it so early, but there are a lot of other experiences for you and the family to enjoy before you are in your 50's. We are going to lose a few people this year to paramotoring, just like every year I have been following the sport since 2017. I'm super glad we didn't lose you! You will excel at any endeavor you pursue. Talk to Leandra about the Sandal's modeling gig!
HAHA! Anti-gravity force fields. I love it. And yes, gliders have had massive improvements.As for inflatable leading edges, I imagine that it’s because it wouldn’t be practical in a PPG setting. I dont know, imagine that you’re enjoying a nice flight, when you discover that there is a gust front heading your way and you need to get down ASAP. As you touchdown gracefully, you have only seconds to get your glider balled up so that it doesn’t drag you to Oz. The likelihood of a puncture would be much higher since most people fly inland. And what if you dont recognize that there is a puncture until you’re 5,000’ above the ground… would the wing still fly safely if it lost all of the pressure in the leading edge? I dont know.
I really have no interest in paramotoring. I found a youtube short of your crash and went to find your channel to see if you made it - glad you did! I subbed because I like your delivery and humor.. I can't wait to see what you come up with next!
Additionally - you said that you used to make videos about soldiers from their mother's perspective.... You may want to revisit that!
Hello Anthony, here what you should say “Hello I’m Anthony V, Life is hard with many hills and valleys. I lived through one of the biggest wrecks one can have in life. I’m here to share and teach others how you can get over huge life events”
What a beautiful intro. I really appreciate it. 😊
I know when I watched the original crash video I didn’t cry until she showed up.
Good decision. You only get one chance to be a father and a husband. Who knows, maybe one day when the kids are grown, you may decide to fly again. Glad to see you feeling better!
Hi ,I'm Anthony V. I'm a recovering Paraholic.
Go skydiving while smoking DMT
I have looked into paramotoring. I used to fly ultralight trikes when I was a young teen with my dad. Also what you should say " I'm Anthony vella, the aviator with a broken wing but not a broken heart" cheers.
I sub because of that crushing but leave the flying to the young guys your family needs you ill continue to watch you grow your channel in different ways
Crashed my PG at TPG a few years back. All my own fault. It took me years of self doubt and second guessing until I was able to fly again AND enjoy it. It took me getting into PPG last year to finally heal in my head. I went to Oludeniz this year again, finally. And enjoyed it again, finally! I'm sure the entire flying community stands with you and behind you. Take your time. We break far more than bones when we crash.
And I am alive to tell our story, Me my wife and our kids. also thanks for choosing a reasonable outcome for living life. filming video can be any subject, the audience will find your content, it sux starting over, however you are here to try again.
Recovery bru and thank God for saving you
Why not fly? With altitude, safety chute, NO SPEED BAR, no speed runs..etc... Isn't it considerd safe? If you heal to the point of being able to paramotor again (and still want to), you should.
My two cents.
I appreciate your two cents. To answer your question, if I could get my wife (and kids) to feel comfortable with me flying again, I will fly again. This is all still very fresh to them. Perhaps with time, they will come around to the idea of my flying paramotors again.
Thank you for your service! GOD Bless you and your family.
I gave up riding motorcycles on the street because there were too many close calls. Don’t want my wife to end up as a young widow.
I am happy to hear that. And it makes me feel better knowing that I am not alone in giving up something that WE love for the one thing WE love most in this world; Our wives.
Near death experiences change you. Been there too. Find another passion as there are plenty of things that are fun!! All the best!
Glad to see the improvements you are making buddy! Looking forward to the future videos and podcasts!
That means so much to me. Today has been physically and emotionally challenging. Your comment has worked to turn my day into a more positive one. Thank you. 🙏
First in Flight😉
"I'm Anthony Vella and I fell out of the air and in to this podcast chair, lets chat"
Really sorry to hear this bro, but only you know what's best for you, best of luck to you and your future.
Thank you, Chris. I appreciate it. If you’re ever passing through El Paso with your gear, get in touch with me. It’d be great to watch you fly.
Great video, Mr. Vella. So glad you are still with us and can still be an awesome husband and father! (I would be lying if I said I didn’t wish you’d give it time, get yourself a huge, slow, bus-of-an-A wing and just chill at 25 mph. 😉)
I remember seeing you a few times in the sky around El Paso and you have really motivated me to get a paramotor in the future! Regardless of the accident! I hope you heal soon and I’m exited to keep watching your content in the future!
I gotta say I’m new to your channel and I really appreciate what you’re doing. Sorry for your injuries, but but but. I’m also a vet of the army and obviously I don’t understand all that has gone on in your life. But I have a story of my own. I’m 48 years old, three months ago I had a massive accident on a motocross bike. Broke six ribs, my clavicle, and a collapsed lung. But month ago, I went back out to the track and started riding again. My perspective life is worth living and by taking as many precautions to do the things you love lightning strike once in a while, but it doesn’t constantly storm. Do you love my brother and your family will love you more for it. They may have anxiety and they may reflect choices, but just as your dad did, he walked his journey and lived his life to the fullest.love your family when you can because one day we all will meet God. Life is too short to forgo your passions.
New subscriber since the accident- The shots of you and Leandra talking to each other made me emotional. The way you look at each other and speak to each other, the connection is so evident and beautiful. I’m so glad that you survived the crash, and I wish you well with whatever you decide to do. You are clearly a talented videographer, and you have a very soothing and captivating way about you; I would love to watch whatever you come up with.
Ditto. Your (well, his) storytelling is awesome! Honestly, you could make videos about absolutely anything and many of us would keep watching. But traumatic events from loved ones' perspectives could be so healing for people, if done well. Which with your experiences it absolutely would be.
HOUSE OF THE DRAGONS MENTION AMAZING SHOW
It was Tucker Gott and videos like yours that got me into paramotoring. I just bought my first trike. I'm sad to hear you won't fly again.
Hola amigo. Sufrí un accidente mucho mejor al tuyo en parapente en febrero de este año.
Te admiro por que comparto la misma pasión que tú por la aviación.
A diferencia tuya mi lesión si afectó la médula y mi recuperación es diferente.
Pienso mucho en volver a volar pero también pienso en mi hijo y que solo tenemos un cuerpo.
Aparte somos seres que se equivocan.
Pero podemos tomar desiciones gracias a Dios.
Cuídate mucho y darle gracias a Dios por tu extraordinaria recuperación.
I deeply admire that you are putting your family first, and I think I would make the same difficult call if I found myself in your position. I've been interested in PPG for a while and plan to train with a USPPA instructor next year, and your videos and experience have both inspired me as well as caused me to approach the sport with a much greater sense of respect and mindfulness for safety.
You look good man. Like it never happend.
I appreciate it Gregor! 😸When my shirt comes off, you definitely notice. My right (mangled) arm is shockingly smaller than my left (good) arm. Plus there’s all of the scars…but chicks dig it, right? 😹 Hope to meet you someday. Have you ever come to the US?
I'm anthony vella and I have aids
Glad you are home safe.
I saw this on facebook and it didn't have any context. I am glad I found your channel and I am happy you look great! I was listening to you in pain and fear and my heart sunk. You are right one of my biggest fears is not death itself, but leaving my family behind to soon or them passing before me. God bless you.
You do what is best for you. ❤ I'm Anthony Vella and I can testify that gravity sucks!
Your accident made me think of a possible invention I worked on a ways back for people who get in bike/motorcycle accidents. It was similar to an airbag you could wear on your body... Hmm I think I just had an idea to make it safer to deploy and a much better material for breaking the fall...
Brother already healed? Lol, congrats.
Btw bros milking it at this point
facts 💀
At least you toplanded the franklins.
is it me are did your voice get deeper 😭
I'm not a follower but glad your alive man it's awesome!
Thank you for your service and your videos❤
My have 3 kids all under 4-years-old. We watch a lot of Bluey, I mean A LOT! There is an episode called "Dance Mode" where they make their Dad (Bandit) dance in public. Right before he does, he announces, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm doing this for my kids". First, watch the episode, they're great. Second, your intro should be, "I'm Anthony Vella and I'm doing this for my kids".
Wow! Backstory and all! First of all, we are HUGE Bluey lovers in this household. 😂 My wife especially. Something, I get the feeling that she loves the show even more than our 4 kiddos. In fact, that is one of our favorite episodes; You can imagine how much I am appreciating your comment. I think it’s a fantastic idea for an introduction! And I would venture to guess that my wife loves the idea as well. I’m sure she’ll chime in on your comment soon enough. Anyways, THANK YOU for commenting this. It contributing to a great morning. 😁
we ❤ bluey! sleepy time hits me so hard. 🥲 i love the bluey related suggestion. 💛
As for hobbies, you dont have to quit aviation. Just because you've made the decision to not paraglide does not mean you can not enjoy anything related to flying. The RC Car community is awesome here in El Paso, and im sure there is a helicopter and airplane group here. Just my humble response. Im so glad you're doing well! Stay safe.
Sail plane gliding would be a good alternative, it’s one of the safest flying hobby’s, you should try it!
Rules, laws and legends are made by making mistakes and learning from them. I see a next chapter here for the Vella family. I believe in you. Keep up your spirits don’t let the negativity deter you. You are another mentor in this community for thousands of people of the past and I’m sure more to come. Definitely looking forward to more ❤
Anthony. I never comment on videos, but this one I must. Don’t stop doing your passion. Ratchet it back. I am 60 years old and a skydiver, BASE jumper, Wingsuiter, Paraglider and Paramotor pilot. Like you, I hammered myself on a BASE jump, and felt all the same emotions I heard in this video. Just dial it back. You don’t have to go mach 3 with your hair on fire to get likes and views. Get a trike like mine and fly within the envelope. Whatever you decide, just don’t loose your passion for adventure and your joy in paramotoring. Thats why we watch your content, not to see you risk your life. I had a bunch of close friends who were great BASE and Wingsuit fliers. I don’t have them anymore. Anyway my two cents. Aloha from Maui.
Wow. Powerful words. I really appreciate it. The truth is, I don’t think my wife would be comfortable at all if I continue to fly. The pain that she must have experienced when she received the news from me was immense. She almost received the news from someone else. Maybe a police officer knocking at the front door.
With time, I think she’ll become ok with me flying again. And when that day comes, you can bet your ass that I’ll be back to paramotoring and skydiving. MAN I miss it already and I still can’t physically do it. Haha.
Thanks so much for reaching out to me, and I hope you continue to watch my videos. 😁🤙🏼
I'm amazed that after such an horrendous injury to your elbow that you are showing movement with the arm and hand which looks almost normal after this brief period of healing.
Following the incredible progress of your rehabilitation is interesting and inspiring.
I think making a decision about flying this soon after the accident is premature and that you should wait until your fitness level can be determined after the fullest possible healing has completed.
It might be that physically you may not recover the necessary fitness to be able to paramotor again, on the other hand if you are able to regain the fitness required to paramotor the pressure to go back on an early decision to quit flying might be hard to resist.
Anthony, you and your wife are a wonderful couple and I feel it is a privilege to be part of your channel where you share some of your life experiences.
Thanks for posting and best wishes for your continued recovery from your accident.
I really appreciate it, Barry. I cut out some of the recording (since I have a habit of rambling on), but I had mentioned at one point that, out of all of the comments that I get, I appreciate the ones that are more than a couple of sentences because it feels like more of a connection was established with the viewer. Then I have more of an opportunity to have a real conversation, which is very rewarding to me.
My elbow, as you mentioned, is doing so much better, but it still has a very long way to go. On the bright side of things, I have started to sleep with the arm brace off, and boy oh boy, is that awesome! My doctor has also authorized me to hold/lift items that are about 10 lbs or less. I will do a video that is much more focused on the progress of my injuries in a future video.
In response to your thoughts that making a decision on whether or not I will fly again may be premature, I don’t disagree. In fact, I feel a lot of stress over the decision and it is one that very well could change in the future (hence, why it was premature). But the number one reason that I am stating that I won’t fly again is because of my wife’s fear that I would get hurt or killed if I went back up. But I know that she trusts me, and if I tell her that I am confident that I can avoid the things that would cause me to crash, she could change the way she feels about me flying again.
Thank you very much for the kind words. I am more than happy to share this journey on my channel because kind people like you will appreciate and contribute their thoughts in response to the videos that I put out. So thank you, and you’re welcome. I will keep you updated on my recovery.
@@AnthonyVella Thanks Anthony. 🙂
I completely empathize. You're a type A person, and you're very fresh into a life altering event. I was a "rapid" skydiver before having a family, and I had to quit cold turkey. I had close friends die in the sport and witnessed some terrible injuries, and was accepting of the risks vs the rewards when I didn't have a family to raise. I was flying a very highly loaded elliptical when I left the sport, and I loved to do hop and pops to aggressively fly that canopy. Was so passionate about it that I worked as a per diem contract nurse so I could always jump if the weather was good. When I left it I was just kind of lost for a bit; I knew it was the best choice, but it certainly wasn't a satisfying one. But I had a kid, so I got a mundane 9 to 5, and made my children my focus. After kids' HS was done, I bought a vintage Cessna140 to get back into "safe" aviation, but it wasn't the same as hanging under a canopy among the clouds, or buzzing inches above the ground. That desire to get back that feeling of really living without all the limitations of planes--led me to your channel and inspired me to get into paramotors.
Down the road, you will find as I did that being there for your kids and their life milestones is the most important and satisfying thing, and you may just find your way back to to the sport--imagine what the changes to the sport will look like by then. Heck, everyone may be on 4 stroke EFIs, who knows? Paramotoring didn't look anything like it does today when I quit jumping in 2000. I do hope you stay in the business and continue to train safe flyers. I'm looking forward to doing business with you!
I’m Anthony Vella…Still !
I'm Anthony Vela, and am I an angel because I feel from the sky 🤭
Hahaha! Very clever. This could be a winner! Time will tell. I really like it, but the decision is up to Leandra. 🙂
God bless you Anthony. Glad you’re ok brother. You are so strong with a great head on your shoulders and great sense of humor. Bless you and your family. There are a million hobbies you will pick up that are on the ground. I’m an “adrenaline junky” myself. Always wanted to paramotor and maybe I’d love to just a couple times… but for now I’ll stick with boating, fishing, and biking😅. God bless brother
I think this is a good decision - a hard brave decision to come to but that was needed. If you ever waver, just go back to the spot in your crash video where you wife arrives and she says 'What happened?' - it's not just the pain in her voice, it's the confusion, the utter bewilderment at what was going on. It would give even the biggest adrenaline junkies pause.
Wait can you go back to interviewing the gold star mothers? There’s so much meaning behind that. I think it would be so inspiring!!
I would love to. And I still keep in touch with many of the ones from the past. Thankfully, there aren’t any new Gold Star Mothers since our nation’s young men aren’t out fighting in any wars (knock on wood). Let us pray that that doesn’t change. When I was filming the stories on them, they’d only recently become Gold Star Mothers. That was almost 15 years ago that I was creating those videos.
Are you of Maltese descent? Vella is a very common Maltese last name.
Yes! My family is in Malta.
Much respect for you bro. Would be awesome if you did a “call-in” session where new and used paramotor pilots could call in and ask different questions they’ve had. Anyway, it doesn’t matter if you never fly again, other than your personal enjoyment. No one looks at you different because you no longer fly. We still look at you as the Anthony that put out these mad videos that were exciting and full of life and even tho you can’t put new flying vids out, I bet you have tons of footage that no one’s ever seen. Looking forward to the next video, much love bro. Stay safe.
Of course you can paramotor again. You are CHOOSING not to. That is the choice of a devoted, sacrificial, loving husband, father and man. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. God be with you and your family moving forward.
One has to make decisions based what is best for them and their loved ones.
Best of luck to you into your future!
I'm Anthony Vella. Welcom to the/my next evolution.
I like it! Makes me think of a caterpillar before it comes out of its cocoon.
It thrills my heart to see the progress you’re making healing up. Still praying every day that the Lord wraps his healing hands around you and continues to give you miraculous healing. I’m anxiously awaiting to see how God uses this terrible event to bring you into a new and even more exciting chapter of your journey. You’re an inspiration my friend. Love you brother!
Love me some hindu kush
Love seeing you back in the video game. You’re a natural content creator. You’ll do well even with both feet on ground, but something tells me you’ll be back in air just with very different approach. Maybe rescue helicopter pilot?🤷♂️