I know that many quads only break their necks and become quads, but some of us break a lot of things. I was hurt and had a severe head injury, a broken neck, back, several ribs, left arm and leg, spleen, fingers and nose. Arthritis became an issue after about 28 years post. I have to use a back brace because I have disc disintegrating disease or DDD. I get AD from just being positioned wrong. I am not looking for sympathy. I'm sick of that. I do know that other quads have similar problems and are fighting unseen pain with little help because they have lived so long. I've never met two quads exactly alike. The one thing that we do have in common is a desire to be treated with the same respect that so many people take for granted. I don't want pity, just a low air loss mattress that was promised to me last year. You can't spend pity.Best wishes, John s.
-------- Original message -------- From: Don Price <[email protected]> Date: 08/08/2015 11:01 PM (GMT-05:00) To: Larry Willis <[email protected]>, [email protected] Subject: Re: Fwd: [QUAD-L] Old sci I'm writing this for any new quads on the list because I see things differently than most of those who have responded to this post. I will be 33 years post injury on August 15th--C5-6 complete quad due to diving accident. At this time I would love nothing more than to someday be the oldest living quad. I suppose I can say that because I don't have the debilitating pain or issues many on this list speak of. I'm not saying this to undermine their struggles--I know I'm very lucky. I get up every day looking forward to the adventure ahead. I am thankful for every moment I have and I try to radiate that positive vibe to every person I meet. I don't always succeed, and I have bad days just like everybody else. Still, my greatest fear is dying too soon, not dying too old. As others have said here: they were fine living as quads for years and then things just fell apart. I know that is a possibility for me, too. That realization adds even greater urgency to every day--I want to experience everything I possibly can while I'm healthy. So, for any new quads on this list, let me be testimony that life as a quad can be full, happy, active and rewarding, even after 33 years. I only speak for myself, but I know I'm not alone. I wish you all health and happiness, Don P C5-6, 33 yrs postTempe, AZ
