Ian, Florida

abacoian
abacoian Posts: 2
edited January 25 in Introduce Yourself
Hi all,
I am happy to find this forum. I'm hoping to find 1, or a few people interested in helping me by giving me ideas. I'm 36. At 15 I had a diving accident that broke my neck. At first I was completely paralyzed.

I use a power wheelchair. Years fly by so fast. Slowly I started moving. With help I can stand and with a walker and determination I can walk, not far but every step is worth it.

I sit in a wheelchair because I'm disabled, but I can move my legs and arms. I can make all of my muscles including core work, it's all there for me to use, but it's very difficult. But that's ok.

When my wife helps me walk she walks behind me just in case and I walk for about 15 minutes. A few weeks ago I was able to try an amazing walker that helps me stand safely without assistance, and I hope to have one in a few weeks. With it I will be able to stand longer and practice / exercise many things while standing. To start I aim to try standing for an hour a day, just being out of my chair and on my feet more will have amazing benefits.

But as amazing as it's going to be I know I can achieve more than just standing, we learn to crawl before we walk. I have a friend that as started helping me get in the pool and plans to help me workout with different routines. I know there will be simple things that I need to do, and difficult things that I will need to do, and if I hang in there I can be much better than I already am.

How much better, I'm not sure. Whether 2x better or 85 x better it will be worth it. I know that it is on the higher end.

But I'm looking for anyone interested in being a part of this mountain climb in my life. Just sharing your workout wisdom, motivation, tips, ideas that you think I should try, anything is what I'm seeking.

My friend and I plan to document as best we can so I can post videos and images for feedback. I thank you for listening and hope you are interested in the challenge.

Sincerely,
Ian

Replies

  • ToughMudderAddict
    ToughMudderAddict Posts: 290 Member
    Hi Ian!

    Sounds like you're ready to hit the ground running (meant in good humor)! I would be more than happy to be part of your "mountain climb" and cheer you on. I'm on here everyday - even with a broken foot.
  • mountaingirl2207
    mountaingirl2207 Posts: 181
    Hi Ian, I'm in Florida too. I would love to be part of your team mfp. The progress you've made is outstanding! MFP is truly a force to be reckoned with... I'm sure it can help you do so much more, with people from all corners of the globe cheering you on!
  • olivias4
    olivias4 Posts: 8
    Hello Ian,

    Congratulations on the progress you have made so far, and you speak with such determination, I feel sure you will make even more. I find your story very inspiring, please feel free to add me as a friend, as I would love to hear of your many future achievements!
  • abacoian
    abacoian Posts: 2
    Hi guys,

    thank you so much for your interest in sharing in this. I will be trying to get a plan together instead of just winging it:) Winging it is ok sometimes but I think a plan will be beneficial.

    Right now I'm working on getting the walker, hopefully I can order it by the end of the week and have it in 2 weeks, whenever it is I am excited about it.

    Right now I mainly do simple exercise for my legs just to keep them going and I use a exercise band with my arms. I had a good workout yesterday and tried a few different movements for my back and core.

    I work 8:30-4:30 everyday so with that and other things I don't get to walk everyday, I am able to exercise my legs during work and want to figure out some other effective exercises. With the new walker and creating a solid routine I see a great possibility of walking becoming easier so even when I'm worn out it will be something that will be easier than it is now and will become a regular part of my life.

    If anyone is wondering, I'm not in denial, I accept my injury, but I know I have unbelievable potential that I can't just settle for the norm, I need to go for it. So that's it for now guys, I will try to get my plan or a starting plan together and get going. Thank you so much for your help! Ian
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