Seven Years Recovering from Spinal Cord Injury

Seven years ago, Amanda Lowry was enjoying a day out on her kite-board with a friend at Mt Maunganui, when a shallow dive left her paralysed below her collarbone. Not only was it life-changing for Amanda, but also for her partner Gemma and their young family. With a newborn and a four-year-old, Amanda and Gemma have had a long road to find a new normal. But never one to slow down, Amanda has been finding a new path through sports and has joined the board of Parafed in order to encourage others living with a disability. She has also started a PhD and is training for a triathlon. There’s not a lot of downtime in this busy household!
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[@moniqueh7948]

So happy to have this update! Amanda is one of the people I have thought of the most often from this channel. Her story as well as the remarkable Dr. Jo who lost her ability to speak normally, are the stories that have touched me the most. She is really doing an amazing job.

[@Rehptawr]

I'm going to go watch Dr. Jo's now since it touched you so deeply 🙂 if you think of any others feel free to share :3

[@lindapelle8738]

I just saw your comment which I know is old but if you haven’t checked out Sophie she’s incredible as well. Broke her neck falling off race horse 👍

[@JN.S.M]

"Takes me ages, but I can do it." Wow, so incredibly inspiring..

[@AhmedRaza-sb9cs]

I m paraplegic from Pakistan life is very difficult for disabled people in Pakistan due to lack of accountability, discrimination and prejudice

[@Rehptawr]

I'm sorry you have to deal with that :(

[@amazongoddess118]

I wish that it could be different for you. I am sending love.

[@mardiyagardad8304]

That’s very 😔

[@arshiyasidiqaa]

Ur right Also in india same situation disabled people face.

[@RainRemnant]

Something needs to fundamentally change but that's hard, to change the mentality of a whole nation... I hope you do get all the help and support from your family

[@jennifer9084]

I just wanted to say you guys have great taste in decor and the way the house was styled. Also your family is awesome!!!

[@RemiMW]

Gemma is a gem.

[@mytime1613]

May the Lord Bless you, Amanda,

[@carlakapap6760]

So happy to have news of those amazing womens 😍 You are truly inspirational and I hope life will be sweet and amazing form now on . Wishing you the best ! ❤

[@mimisinger4073]

Such amazing story! Great fam!

[@felicitymemela1963]

"I'm like Ramsey to everyone else" 😂 I like her humor

[@brama100]

I need an explanation for the shower.

[@shaisaunders2979]

Lol

[@robbin_on_wheels3087]

🙂

[@QueenofMarine]

Having lots of money definitely makes life easier, especially when you can just decide to build your house to suit your needs. The vast majority of people in wheelchairs do not have this immense privilege. That's nothing against Amanda, it's just that this episode doesn't at all represent reality for most people, wheelchair or not. It's much harder to remain positive and pursue all your passions when you have to struggle and worry about how you're going to work, where you're going to live, and how you will pay for insurance, meds, and therapies you need to survive.

[@kgspvgsp7569]

I agree, here in Canada, for your average Joe it is supper hard

[@sopyleecrypt6899]

I think they already owned a house together before the accident, so were able to sell that and build their new one. I’m sure they know how privileged they are to have that, but they should still be able to tell their story. You make a good point.

[@brutallyhonestguy5985]

@@kgspvgsp7569 Isn't Canada developed country.

[@amandawilkerson2720]

I’m a paraplegic and currently getting no income living in a two story townhouse with bathroom upstairs lol

[@acooksla]

Agree, it was the first thing I thought of. The privilege and amazing luck or whatever they have to be able to live with no apparent income and to custom build a house on wetlands… not the norm, wheelchair or not

[@pinkmonkeybird2644]

This just shows what is possible when you’ve got lots of money and support. You can have the best positive attitude and all the optimism in the world, but if you’re paralyzed and don’t have money to pay for that beautifully accessible house and a staff to assist in daily living, you are going to struggle with the most basic parts of life. That’s not an indictment against Amanda or her partner in any way, just the truth. She’s had the luxury to explore her passions without the stress of earning a living or securing good medical care. I’ve also been extremely lucky to have family support, excellent health insurance, and a quick adaptable mind, and that’s given me a great life the past 40 years as a paraplegic.

[@Kaykay-bx4jg]

PinkMonkeyBird this also shows what is possible for people with profound physical disabilities. There are plenty of people, with privilege, that would’ve had an accident like Amanda’s happen and they would not live with this sort of zest for life. A lot of life is more to do with attitude than tangible assets.

[@benmiller7926]

What a wonderful loyal and nice partner you have.

[@jenniferfrank1652]

You all are simply lovely. Thank you for letting us see through a window of your life. It's everything.

[@Lexi-us3ol]

I wish you and your family all the best Amanda !!!!

[@eleonorpasana275]

Carliwe Li movie

[@DJEditorRaju]

I am also quadriplegic but I am very poor

[@amazongoddess118]

When I was watching this I couldn't help but think about those that don't have the support, resources and funds to be able to have a house built, have the services for the PT and exercise and afford a custom van. I wish things could be different for you and I hope that more abundance shows up in your life soon.

[@amandouribe7362]

Yea life is different when you are poor and don't have insurance I have to work every day to support my family and I'm paraplegic

[@freepotatoez1189]

@Texas_Raised_ Texas _Made could be an old picture. I became paraplegic in October and I still haven’t changed my Facebook picture. it’s not a priority

[@countteddy]

it put my strokes in perspective...i feel lucky ,...Amanda is an inspiration ..all the best to you and Gemma.xx..

[@arsolblanes5058]

Thanks Amanda, and thanks to Gemma too, every time I need to continue I see your effort and what you have achieved, it is great to see the four of us together, I have been an athlete all my life here, now I have no job and there is no adapted sport nearby, we will have to continue fighting for universal accessibility, 💪🙏🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@ajmass27]

This was breathtaking to watch!! Your determination is beyond amazing!! You prove that all you need is a willing mind,heart and soul!!! I loved every second of this video 💜💙💚💛🧡❤

[@photogrifmike]

Nice to see an update!

[@jackielong9927]

My son is a quadriplegic

[@Zee-cw4ex]

You're an absolute legend, Amanda. Really glad to see this update from you and your beautiful family.

[@hannah5245]

Yes and you are still creating delicious food for everyone! It will be 8 yrs soon..... thrive well! 🤲

[@pharmachology]

You and your family are brilliant! I love the way you embrace life.

[@elaine378]

Ten year update please 🙏🏼🙏🏼 my favourite couple

[@GoldNGhostsParanormal]

Thanks for this, truly inspirational.

[@cutekinoko_]

I love the attitudes to life. Thank you for sharing your story Amanda. It's inspiring. Wishing you more growth physically and mentally. ❤️

[@amandaschultz5579]

What a beautiful story! I love this family. 😍

[@LessThanThree76]

I’m SO happy for this update on Amanda and her wonderful family. ❤️

[@fxt363]

I am so inspired by your journey. Kia kaha e hoa!

[@elaine378]

Thank you so much for this representation 🥺🥺

[@lanaboisen4134]

What a beautiful family you have! Watching your story was so inspiring! I wish you all the best in your future endeavors and hope to see another video about more of your life. Much love!

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for your support! :)

[@lisaholt1833]

It ikuk

[@djones4084]

I also am so greatful for this update. I have thought of you and your family so much from CCS swim instructing days. What I believe that the bond of this family is the incredible LOVE that just oozes from each and everyone. lola has become such a beautiful young lady, kudos to the mums. Thoughts are with you guys....Lola bossy swim instructor debi...hope shes forgiven me :-))

[@hieucaocao8688]

Tôi cũng bị về chấn thưởng tủy sống. Cầu mong có phép màu từ nhà nghiên cứu chữa trị được về bệnh tủy sống

[@dawnchampion7614]

You are an amazing person and your family is absolutely awsome

[@evakoyanagi1812]

What a beautiful blessed family,, and i must say, the love they have for one another is undeniable, and shes so incredibly brave & she has a story to tell so many people looks up to her gods so beautiful, u my dear are so incredably blessed ♥️🙏

[@edisonbagongahasa5976]

i went that situation that got but through the pray of our almighty god... i know he help us. God bless us all

[@missymason2377]

Brilliant 👍

[@steveimperial7760]

OOOMMMMGGG Going in the wattrrr is sooo much fooon i never was in the wather a 4 oooo me lobs the watertr

[@acooksla]

I would,like to see the moments of softness more, she is so driven and competitive

[@suey8227]

i really enjoyed this . Amanda you are so inspiring - WOW!! You have done so well - what a lovely family you have too : )

[@GAINZonWHEELS]

Nice to see your going better with your way of life now…

[@mitchelljack1590]

What a strong women

[@eduardopadilla5505]

EXCELLENT!!

[@lollytester]

Amazing family!!! Fantastic mummies!!

[@dolled-upjen3606]

You whole family is amazing

[@billiemunds]

Amanda and family, I love you all so much for sharing your life with me. Your my inspiration and I hope God continues to bless you all.. I was on my Harley riding 21 years ago and was hit by a car. The worst day of my life turned into the best thing that ever happened to me. I learned I could be brave and fearless and carry on. I see that drive in you Amanda and it makes me proud that we have that in common. They said I wouldn't walk again. I had to prove the doctors were wrong. Today I am living my best life and happier than I have ever been. Carry that message loud and proud Amanda. Your a loved child of God and I love you and your family and wish you all the best success ever. Much love, Billie in California

[@lindapelle8738]

Wow such a strong lady. Love the house , so airy, huge bedroom. I am so impressed with this woman, you keep goin girl. You have a beautiful loving family so blessed in so many ways.👏🥰🧚‍♀️♥️ my dream kitchen too. Delicious food so many veggies I am so glad you can still be a wonderful chef. “Dear Momma I love you so much even though you are in a wheelchair” 😂🥰I have severe back problems and chronic pain it’s hard to get motivated to do the exercises I need to do, I watch all the strong woman does with a smile on her face And it makes me feel a bit embarrassed. Rugby! This is the motivation I need to get going. 💜

[@martybob55]

Thank you for sharing a glimpse of your beautiful family. I wish you peace snd love as you continue on your journey. I have Multiple Sclerosis for 17 years now. I too am blessed with a wonderful partner. My husband snd I have been married for 37 years. Like you, I think I should encourage him to do some things he enjoys.. without me. A sense of balance is certainly a healthy thing to have in our relationship. Much love to you from California.

[@nikkiisheard8058]

Amanda u n ur family r amazing

[@kellygu2386]

I’m just seeing this and my god you truly are amazing family , you lady are a true inspiration and keep doing what yous are doing , lost love from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 U.K. keep strong snd keep Smiling you got each other 💖💖💖

[@Joanne-c8g]

You four girls are amazing! What a beautiful family. Good luck with life x

[@qammararshad6891]

God bless you. Amen

[@missymason2377]

Educational 🌐 🌏

[@jeancater1388]

Triathlon! You go girl!💕

[@heeyou1925]

For someone who fizzes about life, physical and excited every morning, it would be very frustrating thing to face. But with that vibrant energy, without being blindsided by the sadness, she be keeping going on positive vibe. Very inspiring

[@QuietBloom]

Oh my God, I feel so much better about leaving notes from my daughter’s fairy ‘friend’ when she was little!

[@kgspvgsp7569]

I understand the pool part, that's where I try to stay fit and be free as well

[@ginamulato8949]

you are great inspiration to others. stay safe and strong. nice family i love ur story.

[@jeanettedombroski3934]

You get to cook you lovely person.❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@bryanb0016]

HiAmanda!!!I've got a question i noticed something in your video you are undoubtedly a massive inspiration to me and others!!but my question is this if you were paralyzed from the neck down how are you able to move your arms?idliketoknow because I'm in a imilarbut not in an exact situation Eep on with thefight!! Continue being an inspiration to countless of people!!!

[@GoldNGhostsParanormal]

She was affected from the collar bones down, it says in the write up, so has paraplegia, not quadriplegia, which is why she has movement in her arms. It depends on where the level of injury (or disease) is as to how extensive the loss of movement or sensation may be. Some ppl also have intermittent paralysis, incomplete or complete. Damage to the spinal cord is complex and presents many differing life challenges.

[@bryanb0016]

@@GoldNGhostsParanormal 👍

[@ericherman5413]

Blessings to you and your family!

[@AnthonyWilliams-jc9ec]

You got this Amanda good luck xO

[@billymccaughey3741]

Much love Amanda 💖

[@denisepaulsenful]

I am 9-yrs out. I am a C5/6 incomplete. I fainted and just basically collapsed and couldn't break my fall in any way for I lost consciousness and so broke my neck which impinged my spinal chord. Damn. I was 53-yrs old. I'm 62 now and I still have my difficult days. And I'm sure I always will. But i am fortunate. Like yourself I have a loving supportive family - my rock of a husband for 24-yrs And our twin sons who are now 23-yrs old. We have our own family business. We all work together, and see each other every day. I am fiercely independent much like yourself. It took me 4-yrs before I was able to rid myself of that pit of sadness and grief. It is still with me like a backpack, but it gets lighter and most of the time I forget I'm actually carrying it. You have lovely children. They're a credit to you both. And they should be proud of themselves too!. Love to y'all from Toronto!! Keep on keeping on sister. xoxo

[@zuzuspetals9281]

Keep working on your independence and attitude. There are so many adaptable devices to make doing things easier now and many more being developed. I hope you're able to get counseling or attend a support group if you want/need especially to deal with the emotions you feel. My mom stood on a bed in the middle of the night to turn on a ceiling fan in 2002 when she was 71. She lost her balance and when she fell hit her neck on a dresser and ended up a C 3/4/5 incomplete quad. She had no functional movement from her neck down. She was able to push her joystick with her right arm and lift her hand enough to push the controls on her chair, but that was the limit of her movement. Mom never mentally, emotionally, or spiritually recovered after her accident. There were several reasons. It was a sad situation. She had always been strong, motivated, the family problem-solver. But this accident was just too much for her. She felt guilty, angry, overwhelmed and she quit. I don't think the people with her daily believed in her enough to encourage her to be independent. It's complicated. She died New Year's Day 2017. I miss her but I know her body is free again and she's happier. Use the equipment and devices available to be independent. Research resources that will help you do the things you want to do. There is so much available that allows you to live your best life. Keep moving forward.

[@kgspvgsp7569]

Lovely family ☺️☺️☺️

[@carolynparker7364]

Such an amazing woman

[@SuperName2222]

interesting i get it fully

[@pantyflash]

Like, even though your spine is hosed, you're still awesome seven years on. You go, girl!