Great video man it's great to see someone else with my level injury going your thing. I needed you like 7 years ago haha you would have helped me move it along a lot faster then I did. You are changing peoples lives with your videos.
So very lucky to have found your videos. I been Paralyzed for 5 months now. You have gave me hope and 5he strength to keep fighting. I won't let get me down, you have save me from checking out. God bless you. You are my angel of hope thank you.
My boyfriend has a spinal cord injury. I've only been with him a month and your videos have helped me so much to learn about spinal cord injury. Thankyou so much. You've really helped me. Xx
Hey Amy. I’ve had an injury for about 6 years. I’m fortunate enough to walk. I have some weakness and bowel bladder is ok so far. However not everything works... what is your advice on dating due to this setback? How can I get around the intimacy part given that now that’s an issue. I can’t keep a girl due to this and it’s depressing.
This is awesome stuff you are doing with these videos. I'm 7 months into my incomplete SCI and I'm extremely fortunate that I'm walking already. I'm far from normal, but I can't complain in the SCI world. I can relate to a lot of your videos and I'm sure you are helping and inspiring a ton of people. It can feel like a lonely and isolated situation, even with great support, and videos like yours can do wonders for people. THANK YOU!!!
+Christopher Whyte Thanks Chris! That's great news you are on your feet again. I hope you continue to improve! The first year is crucial for regaining function.
Hi Brian, good news hope you get back on your feet. Sorry to hear about your accident. I will be praying for you. Hope you regain your function. I hope you continue to improve. Kind regards, from, PaulLaw.
Thank you...i'm coming up on my first year anniversary since my injury and I truely appreciate what you are saying. You are so correct in saying we need to focus on some goal. Besides group sessions once a week in rehab, rehab didn't seem to address the mental aspect of our new lives. Your advice is terrific. I would only add we all need to figure out what our own normalcy is now and run with it. Let us decide what our normalcy is and not let anyone else define us. Thanks again!!!
(your gonna be ok)awesome words. Been paralyzed for 6 years now. Depression will ruin you,stay active and busy, and enjoy the people and blessings god put in our life. your a good inspiration.
I'm so inspired by you, I admire your confidence, your strength and your power. I think it's so incredible that you make these videos, that you share this with the world. I feel so sorry for what happened to you, and I really admire your strength to not let it get you down. You you made something of your life. I'm so impressed.
Hi Brian. My name is Shaun originally from Toronto. I'm a T4 complete that was injured in August 2014 on my motorcycle. So I'm a bit fresh, but everyone I've come across is surprised how positive I am. Well, it's not always a picnic. I've been watching your videos for a couple months, and find them inspiring. I totally agree with your comment about staying busy. I hope to be as inspiring!
Butch Vegas Hi Shaun, sorry to hear about your accident. I too was injured in a motorcycle accident so I know what you're going through. I'm glad you have been able to keep your chin up but don't feel like you can't let yourself have bad days too because sometimes there is no way around them.
Thanks for the great video and you attitude. I am paralized on my right side myself due to a stupid drunk driver . I have a c1 c2 fused had 4 ribs broke on one side and 5 on the other , my pelvis also broke in 3 places and my left knee shattered. It was on Oct 1st 2016 and its been hard im not gonna lie. I go through my days of depression but seeing your attitude only makes me feel like I just need to accept whats happened. Thank you and bright days bro.
I so appreciate these videos, Brian! I remember for me I was just so sure the situation was temporary. I literally remember thinking "I'm just really sore, my body is just tired"
I've been watching your videos most of the afternoon Brian you are the most man of a man I've ever come across you being so real with what you went through from the rehab to going home and feeling helpless to depression to getting busy on your bike to desiding how best to take care of yourself and your needs and then to make all that public to try and help others and to have enough life in you to figure out how to get a great wife and then the two of you manage to overcome problams and get pregnant too you are just awesome
Thank you! Im just now starting to finally deal with the way i feel about life. Ive always blocked my feeling to get the job done and help my family to be encouraged. Ive found that hearing other stories are helpful. The world doesn't seem as small. But your story and others never fail to bring me to tears. Thanks for telling me/us what you have. This is the best channel ever. Thanks also for those very uncomfortable topics. We need them!
If you aren't a fan of this style of music this may not help, but the song 'Talking to myself' By Eminem is a good one to help you feel as though you're not alone, or even that you're not alone in having the fear that you're alone.
I found your channel today. You give a real meaning to the phrase don't let nothing get you down! Your an awesome (handsome, funny, talented, courageous and inspiring for all) man! Please don't stop eva!!
Somehow I missed this installation Brian. I always wondered how you moved through the agony of picking up the pieces. It's nice to know we share in this; that I am not alone in the challenges. 7 yeas ago you posted. Today, it appeared to me. My how we have both progressed.
Hi Brian. Thank you so much for your videos. My daughter is T4 and you have inspired to do things she thought she couldn't do. Thank you and keep the videos coming. Sue
Brain this is great! I am a SCI patient incomplete L3 unable to walk. I went back too early to work and had to leave on disability indefinitely so basically they retired me. Your videos have heaped me tremendously through this process. I went through several surgeries and at the end the results were I ended up in the wheelchair. Thank you so for sharing your experience. Continue to make the videos they are being watched.
Hello, Brian, I've been watching your videos for a few months now. I am not paralyzed, but over the last year I've developed some disturbing symptoms that have yet to be diagnosed. It's possibly MS. In April I got a wheelchair for occassional use. Now I am a part-time, borderline full-time user. It's hard to see that a year ago I could hike at high elevation, 12 miles, 1200ft elevation gain, and do it in four hours. Now today I struggle greatly going up the stairs to my apartment, and I sit here knowing I'm not going to be able to stand when I get off the couch. I was an active person, but your videos have given me hope about what I still CAN do, and the technology and techniques available to help me live as actively and as independently as possible. Thank you for your courage, and for sharing your journey. Much Love, Nerissa
Thanks for sharing Brian. You should definitely keep up with the videos. I was born with my disability so I'm used to it, I could only imagine what it's like to just have it brought on you randomly some day. But I admire your strength and your wording. You're awesome man.
Just out of curiosity, what happens to the muscles in your legs and your lower abdomen? You must suffer from terrible muscle atrophy, I’m assuming because of the nature of your injury that you can’t feel anything from the waist down, is there any sort of therapy that you do to your legs to keep them as healthy as possible even though you can’t use them? I’ve commented on a few of your videos already, my real name is Eric, I live in Toronto, and I am legally fully disabled, yet at the same time to see me, you wouldn’t believe it because I am fully able bodied. My disability isn’t visible, I have Crohn’s disease, and survived three rounds of intestinal cancer. I was 20 when I was first diagnosed, I am now 49, and have had a total of 34 brutal operations, I’ve died once, and nearly twice more, ended up with eight chronic illnesses as a side effect of all those surgeries and medical treatments. I have less than 5% of my entire gastrointestinal tract left, and can barely eat anything. Just like you I struggled mentally with my illness, as I have almost no energy because I can no longer absorb any nutrition, unless I’m getting it intravenously. So while our disabilities are so very different, there are so many similarities between the two of us, you seem like such a cool guy, with such a great attitude, it’s a shame you live so far away, because I’d love to meet you in person, shake your hand and buy you a drink! Unfortunately you have to drink by yourself, because I can’t drink alcohol either, another side effect of having no intestines. In any case my friend, it’s nice getting to know you, wish I had the chance to get to know you in person, just wanted to say I think you’re an amazing man, the world needs so many more people like you,Just keep doing what you’re doing, and I pray that you have a long and happy life with that beautiful wife of yours! All my very best, cheers from Toronto!
I look at all your videos, Im 20 and been paralyzed for 8 months now I'm still getting used to this new life,, everything is still hard for me, can't do much on my own, one day I hope I can do everything as easy as it looks for you,,, keep the vids coming
I really like your videos. I am 23 YEARS post surgery that removed a spinal cord tumor that had grown up from T-10 to T-6. Your direct honest approach is great. I remember going through a lot of your experiences. I totally agree with your feelings and suggestions - especially your reassurance that life will go on. You will definitely do very well - your attitude is spot-on to conquer all the battles that you are sure to face as you get older. Call on me anytime if you want to talk.
You are a remarkable man. I just wanted to say that. I came across your videos quite by chance, and greatly admire your attitude to life and your condition. Inspiring; I wish you all the very best, sir.
Really enjoyed watching your video! I'm studying for my Occupational Therapy Licence and I feel that it is really important to hear from the patients on more of a personal level so thanks for the insight!
I recently became a C7T1 paraplegic. I spent 47 days in the hospital and returned home last week. I have a wonderful family and a great community that has rallied around me, but this last week has been tougher than I imagined. I have 3 beautiful daughters that are my motivation. When you said find any kind of normalcy you can, it hit home. That's what I seek! Just going to the store was a big deal, I felt almost normal. I am anxious to get back to work because I am sick of being stuck inside 4 walls, but I know I still have a while before I am ready for that. I just want to thank you for your posts. They have helped me tremendously on this journey to my new normal.
I'd just turned 14 when I fell on my neck doing a backflip at dance practice. For the first year I often didn't even want to live, but then I decided to join Track & Field at my high school. I love it, feeling strong and having social interactions has helped immensely in the past couple years
Hey man! Thank you for your videos! They have helped me a lot! I'm an incomplete T6 paraplegic. I suffer from an uncommon condition called Transverse Myelitis. It was nice to have another perspective and have an idea of what to expect. THANK YOU!
I think faking it also helps. If one continues faking himself that everything is fine and the injury is not a big deal, after a few hard days all obstacles seem small. Also, faking it helps keep one busy with things that matter a lot like work etc. The sensation/movement in the body might not change, but how we feel about it can. Brian, bro you're a rockstar. You have been helping a lot of patients to get back on track with their lives. We'll wait for more videos from you. - Simar (I got injured in August, 2015. T5 Complete)
jvolstad Thank you for your service! So kind of you to help our veterans! God bless you! My son-in-law is a veteran and served 14 years with seven deployments. He has some residual injuries but is able to work.
I been a T3-4 for 25 years now, 45. I was always a perfectionist, o always knew what I was going to with my life before my injury. I was going into the military, I still can't get over it. If it wasn't for my parents I would have checked out long time ago.
Thanks for the video it really helping to hear that am not only one that gets mad at times. Am going to try lesson to your advise and not to be angry so much. Am 39yrs old married to a wonderful husband for 15yrs and have 3 great kid. I try not to get stuck but it hurts when i can't help my 5 yrs old boy. He great when he sees me down he says "Mom Mom I love you and don't be sad ok." and gives me a kiss and hug. Your video are real helpful if he can do all that I can about half. Thanks Again.
This should be award winning video, it's got my vote! people need to know that when your finally home , all alone in your own place, the demons of your mind come to visit! And it is a fight to keep them under submission. Everyone no matter how small or large the life altering event is, has depression, learning to deal with it and the totality of the changes can be more than someone can handle. There needs to be more focus on coping with what is to come, when you get home. the people that work with the patients know about these things they have seen them a hundred times or more. Yet no one gives you a heads up!
Thank you for your videos, Brian. I am able bodied and I just met a T12/L1 and we are getting to know each other. I am falling for him and want to learn more about how I can support him and help him emotionally, as he still has his negative days and suffers with depression. Thank you, this video helps a lot in helping me understand what may be going on in his head.
Hi there, I have followed several of your videos and want to thank you.Im a T12 incomplete and will be taking my first air flight in a couple weeks. Your video made of flying has helped alot. Im going for a new treatment called Neuromuscular Depolorization at NSC Therapy Center. Very excited and will let you know how the results are. Hope to get moving again.... Thanks again for your honesty and great insights.
I made a TH-cam profile just to comment on your videos, Brian. I was injured just a few days before this video came out, 3/28/13. I was riding my motorcycle (who knew they were dangerous?!?) when an elderly man pulled out right in front of me and I couldn't avoid the collision. I suffered a complete spinal cord injury at T3, so I am also paralyzed from the chest down. Life has been difficult since the accident, and I am struggling with depression. Your videos inspire me, and every one I watch has useful, practical information that applies directly to me. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
Thom Powell Hi Tom thank you so much for the note and you are very welcome. I'm sorry to hear about your accident and know how it feels to have your life flipped upside down. I'm glad my videos have helped a little. Distraction is the key to avoiding depression. STAY BUSY doing whatever possible to keep your mind occupied.
My dear whyte you are a blessing to our generation ,my name is PAUL from Nigeria,had an accident in 2013 level c5-c6.i have been looking for a way to reach you but haven't been opportuned.but for privacy reason you can reach me with this lets dialogue better. Email:okopaul74@gmail.com Phone:+2347083037085
Thank you! This needs to be said. And I agree your family/roommate/lover often need to do some therapy as well. It’s hard for everyone! It sucks but we can do it!
Couldn't agree more man. The first year was the hardest but as a drummee I used that time to figure out ways I could play again with poor core balance and without using my legs. That definitely helped me get through
I’m going on little over a month with my injury my T11 and T12 my spinal cord was completely torn apart, but just wanna say thank you for your videos they help me even tho I’m still mentally messed up a lot but they really do help. I wanna ride rockets again too ! Stay blessed bud hope to see new videos
So sorry to hear about your accident but I’m so glad the videos help. I’ve been where you are and completely understand how hard it is to wrap your head around in the beginning.
Thanks for the vid. I was paralyzed about a year and a half ago. Its been hard. There were a lot of days where I didnt even have the stength to get out of bed. Im finally getting used to this lifestyle now though and things are looking bright. If you're recently injured just know that things will get better over time with hard work.
Thank you for posting this. I have an older friend who is, as we speak in an induced coma after suffering lower spinal injuries in an RTA two nights ago. Trying to get my head around what his future may hold and how to deal with that.
I am really sorry to hear about your friend. Trying to guess his future at this time is like trying to predict the whether on a day 6 months from now. I've known people who couldn't move a finger in the hospital but make a near full recovery. So don't jump to conclusions yet. I wish you and your friend all the best!
Wow pretty much all the stuff you said I could relate to. Especially when I'm mad and everything is way harder than it should be. I'm 16, 2 years out of a skiing accident. T-10 incomplete. Starting to drive this summer hopefully, so your driving videos and transfer videos help a lot! Thanks!
I tell people that one never get used to being paraplegic,you just learn to adapt to it the best possible way you can. More than once i n the day I imagine myself whole again,walking,riding my mountain bike,skating. I've been paraplegic for 17 years already,and my walking days seem now as a blurry dream I had long time ago. I glad you're doing so well blackpearlv6
im a paraplegic of 16 yrs now ash...i got hurt at 18 and im 34 now...life isnt over...ive met some of the best people ever and play sports, travel the usa for softball etc....u ever think about sports at all ash? i dont know when ya got hurt etc but if ya wanna bs etc feel free....hope things get better for u
I am a paraplegic too. T2- T4. I am amazed at the way you are sooo independent. I am just 5 feet tall and sooo dependant on others for everything. I can't even sit up without falling. Can you tell me how you have perfect core balance?
Brian, I've been following your video's. I had 2 surgeries on my spine in 2018. I was left paralyzed from the chest down. I think I have adapted well, but the adjustment has taken a mental toll on every day.
redsunfire04 oh man I’m so sorry that happened. It definitely takes some time to adapt but even I have particularly frustrating days after 11 years and sometimes get sad I’m no longer able bodied. I think most in our shoes would admit the same thing. It’s all just part of the coping process and you aren’t alone. I really hope you can get to a point where it’s not quite as taxing.
Hi Brian, I am really sorry to hear about your accident. I am praying for you to get better soon. Hope you get back on your feet. Keep practicing your walking. Kind regards, from, PaulLaw.
Stay💪 everybody battling this. We are going to get thru it. Love you all. Thank god everyday. Pray. Stay active mentally and physically.. Love . peace. Happiness & Prosperity 🙌👏💚
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.....I'm 20 years post and I too go through times where I don't think right.... Normalcy comes and goes....over the years.
Thanks so much for this. My best friend, an ER nurse, has been paralyzed since OCT 2012. Your videos are so comforting.... Thanks for posting. Do you have any recommendations for a good website that has resources for those financially struggling? She's a single mom in risk of loosing her home. That is again
I enjoyed your candor and being straight forward about your struggles and your being so positive in your attitude. Did you ever get married or find someone to settle down with?
Hey Brian, I really enjoyed your video. I have two friends who were paralyzed in a car crash in the 1990s. I have a question, How did you react when you saw an attractive woman on TV or in person after your injury and how did you cope with it? I noticed that my two friends kind of avoided it for a while. I lost track of them many years ago.
Hey Brian, I'm an T10 complete para and I was just curious about your spasticity and whether or not you have nerve pain. I watched your Baclofen pump video and I'm happy that you're now feeling that sort of relief. I have very sever nerve pain and spasms and I feel as if the level of my pain is directly related to how bad my spasms are. Before your pump did you feel the same and after your pump did you feel relief from nerve pain as well. Thanks
Brian I think your videos are great I didn't have an injury but I have a spinal condition that twisted my spinal cord and when I was in surgery they were removing a vertebrae and I lost fiction in my right leg but luckily I can move it but I can't feel it but I'm on the road to recovery I use a brace to walk
Very brave and so rounded. I'm an incomplete due to suffering Cauda Equina syndrome I'm in a chair but really trying to update it and to get the best chair I can afford I've been looking at spinergy wheels and frog legs casters I know this is off track but do you have any advice on the best chairs wheels casters etc Many thanks Sean
I want to say Thank you for this video. I have a severly flattened C5 and C6 spinal cord injury. I still have full mobility, however sometimes walking is difficult because of the spasticity, my muscles tighten so tight. My frustration and depression comes from the fact that none of my family want to hear me complain, it's like they really don't understand the magnitude of this. They think I'm just having back pain which is normal when people get old. What can I do to get them to understand?
I wish you could talk with my brother. He was paralyzed 7 months ago. He was an advocate runner and dedicated his life to fitness after losing nearly 150 pounds before crashing his dirt bike only 8 days of having it. He says he's just waiting to die now. If I could do anything I would trade places with him. I just want him to see that he can still be dedicated to fitness and live a full life. I'm just having the problem getting through to him.
Hello again man! USA must have the best doktors in the world. Cant they do anything to fix spinal cord yet? How mutch can they do to fix the spinal cord 2022 in USA?
Brian. Not sure if u still active and posting. U are amazing and I’m learning soooo much from you. Sex, erections, emotions are all things I have to deal with new. And without u dude I think I was going to be a much harder thing to do. I appreciate u man Danny South Africa
Hey thanks for the advice, just have a question, my dad has a spinal cord injury, he broke his neck in two places and damaged his spinal cord, he's keeping busy everyday but suffers a lot with pain and pins and needles in his limbs especially arms. It won't go away and has been like that since it happened 2 years ago. Do you suffer from this and if so do you have any advice? Thankyou kindly
Hi Brian I got an injury 3 months ago I broke my T4 T5 incomplete , do you see a chance of recovery? I fell from mountain bike and landed on my head and back . I have sensations on my right leg and my genitals . So I have a hope that I will walk one day . What do you suggest me at this time ? Thanks
your a paralegal maybe you can help me with this question my mom was in an accidnet and suffered a T4-T5 complete she also has a desk job and she worries that she will lose her job can you be let go for an injury like that? any help would be great thanks.
Please don't be afraid. I know it seems very tough in the start but it only gets better from there. Its a testing time for both of you but things will get better. (I'm a complete T5 paraplegic too i.e. paralysed chest below)
I don't know if you have seen my friend Chris Colwell. His youtube channel is llewlocsirhc He's a quad and he can do amazing things. I'm glad you are doing well. Great job. I have spastic CP and am a massage therapist.
WOW Brian I was shocked to hear there wasn't a lot you couldn't do when you were sent home from the hospital such as bathe yourself. Didn't they work on that with you in Rehab before the y let yo go home? Where did you go for rehab and how long did they let you stay? Is your last name Kinney or Kenney? If it's Kenney are you related to any one in Muskegon Michigan?
Hey- we'd love to share this and other videos you're posted- we're curating videos and articles from people, organizations and hospitals all over the world. I'd love to help your videos reach more people- any interest?
I know it's a 10 year old video, but after hearing what kind of mental support Cole Sydnor and his parents got during his rehab I feel sad hearing this.
Thanks for commenting! It’s been awhile since I’ve seen this video myself and wow, it’s kind of depressing.😬I will say things have only gotten better for me since my injury and I no longer feel sad so I don’t want you to feel sad either!
Michael Domino so sorry but I can definitely relate. It’s very surreal in the beginning. If you’d ever like to chat, you can shoot me a message on my Paralyzed Living FB page. Hang in there. It may seem impossible but things can improve.
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Great video man it's great to see someone else with my level injury going your thing. I needed you like 7 years ago haha you would have helped me move it along a lot faster then I did. You are changing peoples lives with your videos.
So very lucky to have found your videos. I been Paralyzed for 5 months now. You have gave me hope and 5he strength to keep fighting. I won't let get me down, you have save me from checking out. God bless you. You are my angel of hope thank you.
My boyfriend has a spinal cord injury. I've only been with him a month and your videos have helped me so much to learn about spinal cord injury. Thankyou so much. You've really helped me. Xx
Hey Amy. I’ve had an injury for about 6 years. I’m fortunate enough to walk. I have some weakness and bowel bladder is ok so far. However not everything works... what is your advice on dating due to this setback? How can I get around the intimacy part given that now that’s an issue. I can’t keep a girl due to this and it’s depressing.
This is awesome stuff you are doing with these videos. I'm 7 months into my incomplete SCI and I'm extremely fortunate that I'm walking already. I'm far from normal, but I can't complain in the SCI world. I can relate to a lot of your videos and I'm sure you are helping and inspiring a ton of people. It can feel like a lonely and isolated situation, even with great support, and videos like yours can do wonders for people. THANK YOU!!!
+Christopher Whyte Thanks Chris! That's great news you are on your feet again. I hope you continue to improve! The first year is crucial for regaining function.
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Hi Brian, good news hope you get back on your feet. Sorry to hear about your accident. I will be praying for you. Hope you regain your function. I hope you continue to improve. Kind regards, from, PaulLaw.
Thank you...i'm coming up on my first year anniversary since my injury and I truely appreciate what you are saying. You are so correct in saying we need to focus on some goal.
Besides group sessions once a week in rehab, rehab didn't seem to address the mental aspect of our new lives. Your advice is terrific. I would only add we all need to figure out what our own normalcy is now and run with it. Let us decide what our normalcy is and not let anyone else define us. Thanks again!!!
You're not only an inspiration to so many people you're a hero as well leading by example. God bless you and your family!
(your gonna be ok)awesome words. Been paralyzed for 6 years now. Depression will ruin you,stay active and busy, and enjoy the people and blessings god put in our life. your a good inspiration.
I'm so inspired by you, I admire your confidence, your strength and your power. I think it's so incredible that you make these videos, that you share this with the world. I feel so sorry for what happened to you, and I really admire your strength to not let it get you down. You you made something of your life. I'm so impressed.
Hi Brian. My name is Shaun originally from Toronto. I'm a T4 complete that was injured in August 2014 on my motorcycle. So I'm a bit fresh, but everyone I've come across is surprised how positive I am. Well, it's not always a picnic. I've been watching your videos for a couple months, and find them inspiring. I totally agree with your comment about staying busy. I hope to be as inspiring!
Butch Vegas Hi Shaun, sorry to hear about your accident. I too was injured in a motorcycle accident so I know what you're going through. I'm glad you have been able to keep your chin up but don't feel like you can't let yourself have bad days too because sometimes there is no way around them.
Thanks for the great video and you attitude. I am paralized on my right side myself due to a stupid drunk driver . I have a c1 c2 fused had 4 ribs broke on one side and 5 on the other , my pelvis also broke in 3 places and my left knee shattered. It was on Oct 1st 2016 and its been hard im not gonna lie. I go through my days of depression but seeing your attitude only makes me feel like I just need to accept whats happened. Thank you and bright days bro.
I'm a paralegal...luckily having a desk job made it easier to get back to work.
I so appreciate these videos, Brian! I remember for me I was just so sure the situation was temporary. I literally remember thinking "I'm just really sore, my body is just tired"
I've been watching your videos most of the afternoon Brian you are the most man of a man I've ever come across you being so real with what you went through from the rehab to going home and feeling helpless to depression to getting busy on your bike to desiding how best to take care of yourself and your needs and then to make all that public to try and help others and to have enough life in you to figure out how to get a great wife and then the two of you manage to overcome problams and get pregnant too you are just awesome
Thank you! Im just now starting to finally deal with the way i feel about life. Ive always blocked my feeling to get the job done and help my family to be encouraged. Ive found that hearing other stories are helpful. The world doesn't seem as small. But your story and others never fail to bring me to tears. Thanks for telling me/us what you have. This is the best channel ever. Thanks also for those very uncomfortable topics. We need them!
If you aren't a fan of this style of music this may not help, but the song 'Talking to myself' By Eminem is a good one to help you feel as though you're not alone, or even that you're not alone in having the fear that you're alone.
I found your channel today. You give a real meaning to the phrase don't let nothing get you down! Your an awesome (handsome, funny, talented, courageous and inspiring for all) man! Please don't stop eva!!
Somehow I missed this installation Brian. I always wondered how you moved through the agony of picking up the pieces. It's nice to know we share in this; that I am not alone in the challenges. 7 yeas ago you posted. Today, it appeared to me. My how we have both progressed.
Bro...I am proud of your for your good attitude. You are defiantly an inspiration to all of us. Keep doing what your doing.
Hi Brian. Thank you so much for your videos. My daughter is T4 and you have inspired to do things she thought she couldn't do. Thank you and keep the videos coming. Sue
Brain this is great! I am a SCI patient incomplete L3 unable to walk. I went back too early to work and had to leave on disability indefinitely so basically they retired me. Your videos have heaped me tremendously through this process. I went through several surgeries and at the end the results were I ended up in the wheelchair. Thank you so for sharing your experience. Continue to make the videos they are being watched.
Hello, Brian,
I've been watching your videos for a few months now. I am not paralyzed, but over the last year I've developed some disturbing symptoms that have yet to be diagnosed. It's possibly MS. In April I got a wheelchair for occassional use. Now I am a part-time, borderline full-time user. It's hard to see that a year ago I could hike at high elevation, 12 miles, 1200ft elevation gain, and do it in four hours. Now today I struggle greatly going up the stairs to my apartment, and I sit here knowing I'm not going to be able to stand when I get off the couch. I was an active person, but your videos have given me hope about what I still CAN do, and the technology and techniques available to help me live as actively and as independently as possible. Thank you for your courage, and for sharing your journey.
Much Love,
Nerissa
You are very calm...great 🙏🏻👌🙏
Im having a hard time convincing myself that its worth trying to stay alive.
I hope you're alive and doing fine. It's been a tough trip.
stay strong andrew.
It's not easy but stay strong Andrew. 🤗
Thanks for sharing. I appreciate your candor about one of the tougher aspects of adapting to your new life post injury.
Thanks for sharing Brian. You should definitely keep up with the videos. I was born with my disability so I'm used to it, I could only imagine what it's like to just have it brought on you randomly some day. But I admire your strength and your wording. You're awesome man.
You're an incredibly inspiring guy! I'll push a bit harder through my own challenges today having watched this.
Just out of curiosity, what happens to the muscles in your legs and your lower abdomen? You must suffer from terrible muscle atrophy, I’m assuming because of the nature of your injury that you can’t feel anything from the waist down, is there any sort of therapy that you do to your legs to keep them as healthy as possible even though you can’t use them? I’ve commented on a few of your videos already, my real name is Eric, I live in Toronto, and I am legally fully disabled, yet at the same time to see me, you wouldn’t believe it because I am fully able bodied. My disability isn’t visible, I have Crohn’s disease, and survived three rounds of intestinal cancer. I was 20 when I was first diagnosed, I am now 49, and have had a total of 34 brutal operations, I’ve died once, and nearly twice more, ended up with eight chronic illnesses as a side effect of all those surgeries and medical treatments. I have less than 5% of my entire gastrointestinal tract left, and can barely eat anything. Just like you I struggled mentally with my illness, as I have almost no energy because I can no longer absorb any nutrition, unless I’m getting it intravenously. So while our disabilities are so very different, there are so many similarities between the two of us, you seem like such a cool guy, with such a great attitude, it’s a shame you live so far away, because I’d love to meet you in person, shake your hand and buy you a drink! Unfortunately you have to drink by yourself, because I can’t drink alcohol either, another side effect of having no intestines. In any case my friend, it’s nice getting to know you, wish I had the chance to get to know you in person, just wanted to say I think you’re an amazing man, the world needs so many more people like you,Just keep doing what you’re doing, and I pray that you have a long and happy life with that beautiful wife of yours! All my very best, cheers from Toronto!
I look at all your videos, Im 20 and been paralyzed for 8 months now I'm still getting used to this new life,, everything is still hard for me, can't do much on my own, one day I hope I can do everything as easy as it looks for you,,, keep the vids coming
I really like your videos. I am 23 YEARS post surgery that removed a spinal cord tumor that had grown up from T-10 to T-6.
Your direct honest approach is great. I remember going through a lot of your experiences. I totally agree with your feelings and suggestions - especially your reassurance that life will go on.
You will definitely do very well - your attitude is spot-on to conquer all the battles that you are sure to face as you get older. Call on me anytime if you want to talk.
You are a remarkable man. I just wanted to say that. I came across your videos quite by chance, and greatly admire your attitude to life and your condition. Inspiring; I wish you all the very best, sir.
Really enjoyed watching your video! I'm studying for my Occupational Therapy Licence and I feel that it is really important to hear from the patients on more of a personal level so thanks for the insight!
Your posts have helped me a lot. I hope you are still doing well.
I recently became a C7T1 paraplegic. I spent 47 days in the hospital and returned home last week. I have a wonderful family and a great community that has rallied around me, but this last week has been tougher than I imagined. I have 3 beautiful daughters that are my motivation. When you said find any kind of normalcy you can, it hit home. That's what I seek! Just going to the store was a big deal, I felt almost normal. I am anxious to get back to work because I am sick of being stuck inside 4 walls, but I know I still have a while before I am ready for that. I just want to thank you for your posts. They have helped me tremendously on this journey to my new normal.
hope things are better today, Prayers for you and the family.
I'd just turned 14 when I fell on my neck doing a backflip at dance practice. For the first year I often didn't even want to live, but then I decided to join Track & Field at my high school. I love it, feeling strong and having social interactions has helped immensely in the past couple years
Your videos are very inspiring! Thank you for putting up this channel.
Hey man! Thank you for your videos! They have helped me a lot! I'm an incomplete T6 paraplegic. I suffer from an uncommon condition called Transverse Myelitis. It was nice to have another perspective and have an idea of what to expect. THANK YOU!
We just got told our daughter is going to be a paraplegic - this video was so inspiring to me - I am def going to have her watch these in her rehab -
I think faking it also helps. If one continues faking himself that everything is fine and the injury is not a big deal, after a few hard days all obstacles seem small. Also, faking it helps keep one busy with things that matter a lot like work etc.
The sensation/movement in the body might not change, but how we feel about it can.
Brian, bro you're a rockstar. You have been helping a lot of patients to get back on track with their lives.
We'll wait for more videos from you.
- Simar
(I got injured in August, 2015. T5 Complete)
ITS OVER
Your right bro it’s all mental toughness it’s an adjustment truly but you can do it if you stay busy 🎯💪🏽
thank you so much, yes finding what we will get happy is the harder :) hope every one will hold on again its life and enjoy it as possible as we can
Cool to see you back Brian, amen to what you said I'm 15 years as a para and hell it didn't start out easy. It's a severe kick in the ass
As a disabled veteran, the way I cope is to help our hospitalized veterans as a VA Volunteer.
jvolstad Thank you for your service! So kind of you to help our veterans! God bless you! My son-in-law is a veteran and served 14 years with seven deployments. He has some residual injuries but is able to work.
I been a T3-4 for 25 years now, 45. I was always a perfectionist, o always knew what I was going to with my life before my injury. I was going into the military, I still can't get over it. If it wasn't for my parents I would have checked out long time ago.
💞👏👏👏
Thanks for the video it really helping to hear that am not only one that gets mad at times. Am going to try lesson to your advise and not to be angry so much. Am 39yrs old married to a wonderful husband for 15yrs and have 3 great kid. I try not to get stuck but it hurts when i can't help my 5 yrs old boy. He great when he sees me down he says "Mom Mom I love you and don't be sad ok." and gives me a kiss and hug. Your video are real helpful if he can do all that I can about half. Thanks Again.
This should be award winning video, it's got my vote! people need to know that when your finally home , all alone in your own place, the demons of your mind come to visit! And it is a fight to keep them under submission. Everyone no matter how small or large the life altering event is, has depression, learning to deal with it and the totality of the changes can be more than someone can handle. There needs to be more focus on coping with what is to come, when you get home. the people that work with the patients know about these things they have seen them a hundred times or more. Yet no one gives you a heads up!
Thank you for your videos, Brian. I am able bodied and I just met a T12/L1 and we are getting to know each other. I am falling for him and want to learn more about how I can support him and help him emotionally, as he still has his negative days and suffers with depression. Thank you, this video helps a lot in helping me understand what may be going on in his head.
Hi there, I have followed several of your videos and want to thank you.Im a T12 incomplete and will be taking my first air flight in a couple weeks. Your video made of flying has helped alot. Im going for a new treatment called Neuromuscular Depolorization at NSC Therapy Center. Very excited and will let you know how the results are. Hope to get moving again.... Thanks again for your honesty and great insights.
I made a TH-cam profile just to comment on your videos, Brian. I was injured just a few days before this video came out, 3/28/13. I was riding my motorcycle (who knew they were dangerous?!?) when an elderly man pulled out right in front of me and I couldn't avoid the collision. I suffered a complete spinal cord injury at T3, so I am also paralyzed from the chest down. Life has been difficult since the accident, and I am struggling with depression. Your videos inspire me, and every one I watch has useful, practical information that applies directly to me. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
Thom Powell Hi Tom thank you so much for the note and you are very welcome. I'm sorry to hear about your accident and know how it feels to have your life flipped upside down. I'm glad my videos have helped a little. Distraction is the key to avoiding depression. STAY BUSY doing whatever possible to keep your mind occupied.
My dear whyte you are a blessing to our generation ,my name is PAUL from Nigeria,had an accident in 2013 level c5-c6.i have been looking for a way to reach you but haven't been opportuned.but for privacy reason you can reach me with this lets dialogue better.
Email:okopaul74@gmail.com
Phone:+2347083037085
Thank you! This needs to be said. And I agree your family/roommate/lover often need to do some therapy as well. It’s hard for everyone! It sucks but we can do it!
Couldn't agree more man. The first year was the hardest but as a drummee I used that time to figure out ways I could play again with poor core balance and without using my legs. That definitely helped me get through
I’m going on little over a month with my injury my T11 and T12 my spinal cord was completely torn apart, but just wanna say thank you for your videos they help me even tho I’m still mentally messed up a lot but they really do help. I wanna ride rockets again too ! Stay blessed bud hope to see new videos
So sorry to hear about your accident but I’m so glad the videos help. I’ve been where you are and completely understand how hard it is to wrap your head around in the beginning.
So true on all points man. C3,4,5 in 09 you say what, I think great work.
Thanks for the vid. I was paralyzed about a year and a half ago. Its been hard. There were a lot of days where I didnt even have the stength to get out of bed. Im finally getting used to this lifestyle now though and things are looking bright. If you're recently injured just know that things will get better over time with hard work.
Thank you for posting this. I have an older friend who is, as we speak in an induced coma after suffering lower spinal injuries in an RTA two nights ago. Trying to get my head around what his future may hold and how to deal with that.
I am really sorry to hear about your friend. Trying to guess his future at this time is like trying to predict the whether on a day 6 months from now. I've known people who couldn't move a finger in the hospital but make a near full recovery. So don't jump to conclusions yet. I wish you and your friend all the best!
Wow pretty much all the stuff you said I could relate to. Especially when I'm mad and everything is way harder than it should be. I'm 16, 2 years out of a skiing accident. T-10 incomplete. Starting to drive this summer hopefully, so your driving videos and transfer videos help a lot! Thanks!
I tell people that one never get used to being paraplegic,you just learn to adapt to it the best possible way you can.
More than once i n the day I imagine myself whole again,walking,riding my mountain bike,skating.
I've been paraplegic for 17 years already,and my walking days seem now as a blurry dream I had long time ago.
I glad you're doing so well blackpearlv6
im a paraplegic of 16 yrs now ash...i got hurt at 18 and im 34 now...life isnt over...ive met some of the best people ever and play sports, travel the usa for softball etc....u ever think about sports at all ash? i dont know when ya got hurt etc but if ya wanna bs etc feel free....hope things get better for u
Omg. Thank you for this. I appreciate you sharing.. Comforting and informative..
So proud of you
I am a paraplegic too. T2- T4. I am amazed at the way you are sooo independent. I am just 5 feet tall and sooo dependant on others for everything. I can't even sit up without falling. Can you tell me how you have perfect core balance?
Brian, I've been following your video's. I had 2 surgeries on my spine in 2018. I was left paralyzed from the chest down. I think I have adapted well, but the adjustment has taken a mental toll on every day.
redsunfire04 oh man I’m so sorry that happened. It definitely takes some time to adapt but even I have particularly frustrating days after 11 years and sometimes get sad I’m no longer able bodied. I think most in our shoes would admit the same thing. It’s all just part of the coping process and you aren’t alone. I really hope you can get to a point where it’s not quite as taxing.
Hi Brian, I am really sorry to hear about your accident. I am praying for you to get better soon. Hope you get back on your feet. Keep practicing your walking. Kind regards, from, PaulLaw.
Stay💪 everybody battling this. We are going to get thru it. Love you all. Thank god everyday. Pray. Stay active mentally and physically.. Love . peace. Happiness & Prosperity 🙌👏💚
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.....I'm 20 years post and I too go through times where I don't think right.... Normalcy comes and goes....over the years.
Thanks so much for this. My best friend, an ER nurse, has been paralyzed since OCT 2012. Your videos are so comforting.... Thanks for posting. Do you have any recommendations for a good website that has resources for those financially struggling? She's a single mom in risk of loosing her home. That is again
This November will be 19 years living as a paraplegic (T-5). I still cannot cope. I feel utterly destroyed. I need help.
Hi Patrick I hope you found some help
Patrick Delabrue are you fine?
Are you there
Great vid. It's been 5 weeks since my accident.
Thanks :)
great video thanks for sharing.
You are an amazing man.
You're back!
Words of wisdom! So true!
I enjoyed your candor and being straight forward about your struggles and your being so positive in your attitude. Did you ever get married or find someone to settle down with?
A truly inspirational man,
Hey Brian, I really enjoyed your video. I have two friends who were paralyzed in a car crash in the 1990s. I have a question, How did you react when you saw an attractive woman on TV or in person after your injury and how did you cope with it? I noticed that my two friends kind of avoided it for a while. I lost track of them many years ago.
Hey Brian, I'm an T10 complete para and I was just curious about your spasticity and whether or not you have nerve pain. I watched your Baclofen pump video and I'm happy that you're now feeling that sort of relief. I have very sever nerve pain and spasms and I feel as if the level of my pain is directly related to how bad my spasms are. Before your pump did you feel the same and after your pump did you feel relief from nerve pain as well. Thanks
Brian I think your videos are great I didn't have an injury but I have a spinal condition that twisted my spinal cord and when I was in surgery they were removing a vertebrae and I lost fiction in my right leg but luckily I can move it but I can't feel it but I'm on the road to recovery I use a brace to walk
I’m so proud of you 👍🏻
Very brave and so rounded. I'm an incomplete due to suffering Cauda Equina syndrome I'm in a chair but really trying to update it and to get the best chair I can afford I've been looking at spinergy wheels and frog legs casters I know this is off track but do you have any advice on the best chairs wheels casters etc
Many thanks
Sean
You inspire me soo much thank you
I want to say Thank you for this video. I have a severly flattened C5 and C6 spinal cord injury. I still have full mobility, however sometimes walking is difficult because of the spasticity, my muscles tighten so tight. My frustration and depression comes from the fact that none of my family want to hear me complain, it's like they really don't understand the magnitude of this. They think I'm just having back pain which is normal when people get old. What can I do to get them to understand?
I wish you could talk with my brother. He was paralyzed 7 months ago. He was an advocate runner and dedicated his life to fitness after losing nearly 150 pounds before crashing his dirt bike only 8 days of having it. He says he's just waiting to die now. If I could do anything I would trade places with him. I just want him to see that he can still be dedicated to fitness and live a full life. I'm just having the problem getting through to him.
Danielle S mine too :( it happened last week and I don’t know how to help but just be there. He has no will power anymore. He’s only 22.
The beginning is really rough and scary but it will get better if you let it!! I'm here to help if needed. Just let me know.
Hello again man! USA must have the best doktors in the world. Cant they do anything to fix spinal cord yet? How mutch can they do to fix the spinal cord 2022 in USA?
Brian. Not sure if u still active and posting. U are amazing and I’m learning soooo much from you. Sex, erections, emotions are all things I have to deal with new. And without u dude I think I was going to be a much harder thing to do.
I appreciate u man
Danny South Africa
Thank you so much for your message! I know I haven’t posted in awhile but I still keep tabs on my messages. So glad they have helped!
That’s awesome advice
Hey thanks for the advice, just have a question, my dad has a spinal cord injury, he broke his neck in two places and damaged his spinal cord, he's keeping busy everyday but suffers a lot with pain and pins and needles in his limbs especially arms. It won't go away and has been like that since it happened 2 years ago. Do you suffer from this and if so do you have any advice? Thankyou kindly
Hi Brian
I got an injury 3 months ago I broke my T4 T5 incomplete , do you see a chance of recovery? I fell from mountain bike and landed on my head and back . I have sensations on my right leg and my genitals . So I have a hope that I will walk one day .
What do you suggest me at this time ? Thanks
Brave man ...
Do you do any type of public speaking about motorcycle safety?
what do you do for a job?
your a paralegal maybe you can help me with this question my mom was in an accidnet and suffered a T4-T5 complete she also has a desk job and she worries that she will lose her job can you be let go for an injury like that? any help would be great thanks.
Brave man ,my husband is paralyzed from the chest down ... I'm so afraid!
Please don't be afraid. I know it seems very tough in the start but it only gets better from there. Its a testing time for both of you but things will get better. (I'm a complete T5 paraplegic too i.e. paralysed chest below)
Simarpreet Singh Mamik thank you we are keeping our spirits up
Melissa Matthes I am very pleased to hear that. You're his rock, it takes some time but soon you'll both start having fun again!
I am t12 injerd
I don't know if you have seen my friend Chris Colwell. His youtube channel is llewlocsirhc
He's a quad and he can do amazing things. I'm glad you are doing well. Great job. I have spastic CP and am a massage therapist.
Thank you.
Typo at the end. Thanks again is what it was suppose to say;)
WOW Brian I was shocked to hear there wasn't a lot you couldn't do when you were sent home from the hospital such as bathe yourself. Didn't they work on that with you in Rehab before the y let yo go home? Where did you go for rehab and how long did they let you stay? Is your last name Kinney or Kenney? If it's Kenney are you related to any one in Muskegon Michigan?
Shared on g+.
you qualify for Disability (social security) right? How do you go back to work and not affect your ability to claim medicare?
Hey- we'd love to share this and other videos you're posted- we're curating videos and articles from people, organizations and hospitals all over the world. I'd love to help your videos reach more people- any interest?
I know it's a 10 year old video, but after hearing what kind of mental support Cole Sydnor and his parents got during his rehab I feel sad hearing this.
Thanks for commenting! It’s been awhile since I’ve seen this video myself and wow, it’s kind of depressing.😬I will say things have only gotten better for me since my injury and I no longer feel sad so I don’t want you to feel sad either!
i'am a paralegal .i got shot in 1985 i like the video.
This is worse thing not be able to move I hate it soo much
Michael Domino so sorry but I can definitely relate. It’s very surreal in the beginning. If you’d ever like to chat, you can shoot me a message on my Paralyzed Living FB page. Hang in there. It may seem impossible but things can improve.
Without having to get too personal could you talk about dating in a future video.