Finding Hope Along The Journey - Learning To Walk Again

* All spinal cord injuries are different. Before attempting anything seen in this video, please talk with your doctor or physical therapist to make sure activities are safe for your case. *
On August 10, 2022, Chris and I visited Neuro & Brain Performance Centers LLC in Mesa, Arizona. Duane Blau, PT (Physical Therapist), is a good friend and we had chatted about getting Chris in to see what his current abilities are. This video is of Chris taking his first steps on land using a variety of devices to complete over 40 feet of walking.
A little more about our journey...
We are now 2 years and 3 months out from a motorcycle accident that resulted in an incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI) of the cervical and lumbar segments. In addition to the SCI, Chris had significant damage to his right shoulder, and required two surgeries approximately 8 weeks later to plate the right scapula, two ribs, and the glenoid/humerous.
Additionally, he sustained a brachial plexus injury to the right arm, and scarring of the right upper arm from road rash, and scarring of the right chest wall from 2-3 chest tube placements.
(Injury List - May 2, 2020 - C6/C7/T1 transverse fractures, T8 disc protrusion, L1/L2/L3 compression fractures, shattered right scapula, right clavicle fracture, right ribs 1-9 fractured, right collapsed lung, right brachial plexus injury, multiple areas of skin abrasions.)
The shifting and fractures of the vertebrae resulted in significant edema in the spinal cord, causing Chris' paralysis. As this is an incomplete spinal cord injury, Chris has regained some of his lower extremity motor function, but no sensation has returned to date.
In September of 2021, we began aquatic therapy at Saguaro Rehabilitation & Fitness Center in Apache Junction, AZ. It was in the pool that Chris took his first steps since the accident. He remains dedicated to his strengthening program since being discharged from therapy, practicing his standing, squatting, and walking in the water during open pool swim hours. Additionally, Chris attends a public gym a couple times a week to work his strengthening outside of the water.
With much success in the water, we are now beginning the transition to land. Chris is determined and dedicated, and I have no doubts that he will walk again with time and training.
Thanks for following our journey!
Chris and Valerie Beuschlein
** We do not own rights to any music heard in this video. **

[@colleensample8041]

I just found your channel and I just want to say how much I admire Chris’s determination and your devotion!!

[@findinghopealongthejourney]

Thank you so much!

[@zealousoutdoors]

I can't wait for the day he's able to flip you upside down and shake coins out of your pocket. Great job, keep it up. Love you guys.

[@findinghopealongthejourney]

Love you, too!