How long can the body hold out as a paraplegic?

[Patrick Madsen]

I'm 49 years post injury going on 50 years in June. Been really healthy until a couple of years ago after the shoulders wore out. But am still really healthy and somewhat strong for a guy going on 75.

For me I feel it was my getting as strong as I could, staying active involving wheelchair sports, I still handcycle and getting a good education if I needed to work, which with my insurance coverage I didn't but volunteered and traveled the world playing competitive sports. I still went back to school for my MA in Education. I substitute taught at our local school and coached middle school girl's volleyball for many years. (Surely a lesson in patience lol) Also did tours and school demonstrations as part of Terry Fox's attempted run across Canada and Rick Hansons around the world wheel. I still speak at schools and Universities on physical fitness, personal responsibility and keeping a Positive Mental Attitude. Also mentor new sci injuries and their families.

I used to tell the newbies a person has to be in shape in case a cure comes along and in shape to drag ones sorry ass thru life if there isn't a cure. I still think that way towards motivation for myself. Also Since I couldn't do the job I did before my injury, I used this as an opprotunity to do something I'd like to do.

[stephen212]

Always deep respect for and admiration of you, Patrick! I'm drafting behind you. Recently turned 63 and 39 years post injury (T4 complete) and, shockingly, still going strong (and that includes being in my 5th year of complete remission from chronic lymphocytic leukemia).

[tarantella]

I've got a ton of respect for you guys that have been doing this for 30, 40, 50 years. It really is impressive and also inspirational for guys like me that wonder what the future holds. I'm only 14 years in. Doing good but turning 40 was a little rough. Had to deal with a stupid pinched nerve that eventually required surgery to release. It really caused a lot of muscle wasting in my left tricep that has been slow to recover. Looking forward to handcycling this summer and continuing to work on it.

[funklab]

It was turning 40 that made me think about this kind of stuff. Definitely don’t bounce back as quick as I used to, even five or six years ago.

[August West]

Had to deal with a stupid pinched nerve that eventually required surgery to release. It really caused a lot of muscle wasting in my left tricep that has been slow to recover.

You've hit the nail on the head. It's not the injury but the recovery that has been the hardest part for me. When I injured my shoulder with a long transfer about 7 years ago, I compensated for it by modifying my transfer techniques to reduce using it, figuring it would heal better that way. In hindsight, I should have gotten physical therapy for it ASAP. Delaying the PT and hoping it recovers naturally was a mistake. Herein, PT is immediate.