June 24, 2011

Bit by bit the back yard is transforming in to a rehab gym. Some elastic Theraband tied here, a sport-cord hung there and my home training circuit grows. Before my injury I was no gym-rat - the world was my gym. Riding my bicycle for fun as well as for fetching boat parts, hefting SCUBA tanks and 100+ lb dive kits, climbing in, on, and around yachts, running, hiking, and skiing- all these things kept me fit. Alas, those things are off the menu (for now). I am now focused on gym work to build strength in what muscles I can, motivated by the promise of new adventures to come. Building up my triceps is essential to be able to ride a sit-ski next winter. Working on cardio fitness will pay when cranking a hand-cycle around Mission Bay. Hell, just being able to push my wheelchair faster and farther is impetus to pump iron. Regardless of which carrot dangles from the end of the stick, I have plenty of reason to throw in those extra reps and sets.

Cheers,
Berkey

Thank You for Making the van a reality!

June 7, 2011

Family and Friends,

Everyday we wake to new challenges. Your love and kindness enable me to face mine.

Thanks to you, the pit crew now has a van to cart me around with! The ramp and tie-down system make easier the task of getting me on the road. The new ride should help to ease strain on the backs of my caregivers, as transferring me in to/out of normal vehicles is inescapably a chore for all involved. The van has quickly elevated my quality of life and reduced the stress of getting around to a multitude of appointments, lab tests,etc.

Thank you for helping me face my challenges. But for you, I could not survive.

May 30, 2011

It had to happen sooner or later- a matter of when, not if. At least I landed on soft grass. The drop from the sidewalk to the turf didn't look like much, but it was enough. As i charged off the concrete walkway the front of my chair dipped, the foot-rests dug in, and I ejected. The grass was mercifully soft and my rescuers Dan and Charlie were only steps away. After a quick assessment we concluded I had not injured myself. They proficiently lifted me, installed me in my chair, and sent me on my merry way. I've experienced plenty of crashes in my life- skis, bikes, cars, and now I can add wheelchair to that list. Another lesson learned: do not drive the wheelchair like it's a mountain bike!