MY TRUTH ABOUT WALKING AFTER SPINAL CORD INJURY (My recovery as a T12 paraplegic)

[@Michellee970]

I shattered my T12 in an ejection car accident in 2008. I was a hair's width from a spinal cord injury. While I was in the hospital, three neighboring patients on my floor had the same break, except I was the only one to walk. I'm so sorry for the pain you suffer, but I am thankful to have found your channel. You're a wonderful source of information and hope for many. I hope you have a beautiful day, and thank you.

[@renhenry7398]

you are so lucky

[@twistedsocietytv]

The fact you posted this video right after I watched the first it’s a sign. You’re a legend brother and an inspiration

[@mason_branstrator]

Definitely a sign 🙌🏻 and thank you!!

[@paullaw6988]

⁠​⁠@@mason_branstratorhello Mason Branstrator, how are you doing brother 😊😊? Glad to see you on your KZbin video of you practising your walking out of your wheelchair 😊😊. I am so sorry to hear that you were paralysed from the skiing accident. Also you’re in a T12 paraplegic 😊😊. Hope you’re O.K😊😊 brother. In fact you’re a legend and also you’re a inspiration to everyone 😊😊. Thank you for sharing this video😊😊. One day hope to see you getting you back on your feet walking in and out 😊😊. Glad to see you doing your favourite events like going to the gym workout, seeing the physio and practicing yourself standing up and also walking when you get stronger and better 😊😊. Take care brother 😊😊. Say hello to your family for me please 😊😊. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year for 2024😊😊. I love you heaps brother ❤❤😊😊. Best friends as always from PaulLaw 😊😊.

[@ismaelherrera9589]

Hola Por lo que veo es que tienes ayuda de tu familia y tienes la economía para costear tus terapias pero para una persona que no puede costear las terapias esta cabron yo que más quisiera tener mínimo un carrito para poder mover me a mis terapias Salu2 y genial por lo que has logrado

[@HolyGhost9.6]

I can cure u

[@nancywood9531]

Me too. Watched him for first time tonight. Subscribed to watch his improvements.

[@froggyfur1954]

OMG it's so SO good to hear someone else with the same narrative!! T2 - 7 incomplete and I can walk, but it's not pretty, not safe, and incredibly exhausting. Frankly, for me walking is overrated. I do walk in my house as part of my general PT. Huge props to you for shining a light on this aspect of our lives, and Thank You.

[@mason_branstrator]

Exactly!!! Thanks so much 😊😊😊

[@dominquebeniquez991]

What happened to you mason i love your videos please post more we love you

[@blumberg1982]

Yes!!

[@jaypolas4136]

You're very lucky to still be walking

[@1littlepill]

Saw your reel on Insta and came to check this out. As a trauma responder, I have often seen the acute/emergent side of SCI, but we never really get to see and hear how things turn out later. I’m sure the road to get to the place you’re at is astoundingly long and difficult, but holy shit have you accomplished a lot! This is seriously inspiring and I’ll be cheering you on going forward. Keep living your best life. All the best.

[@mason_branstrator]

That is such a cool background! I’m so happy I could show you the other side! Thank you so much for the support and your totally right it has been a long journey, but there sure is a lot to be grateful for!!

[@paullaw6988]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@mason_branstratorhello Manson Branstrator, how are you brother 😊😊? Glad to see you achieving your goals out from your wheelchair 😊😊 by getting on and out😊😊. I am so happy that you conquer 😊😊. Keep up the great work😊😊 buddy. Love you heaps brother 😊😊❤❤. Take care brother 😊😊. Best friends as always from PaulLaw😊😊.

[@HolyGhost9.6]

I can cure u

[@jovannazamora]

My step dad just had a SCI. We’re going through this as a family. Thank you for posting this. Families need these resources.

[@mason_branstrator]

So sorry to hear this but glad I could be a resource!! That’s my main goal!

[@ZachariahZeiger]

Hey Mason, I am also a T12 broken vertebrae survivor (surfing accident) with the exact same scar, and same titanium fusion setup. You are beyond encouraging, and are a tremendous person of hope in this world. I’m proud of you, and am cheering you on. Grateful to know there are also other survivors out there fighting for life.

[@DisabledEngineer]

Walking or not walking, you made amazing progress. The ability to go out of the wheelchair, go upstairs, or crawl is awesome. It gives you so much more independence which is so important in a SCI

[@mason_branstrator]

Thanks my man! So true and well said 😎

[@nickit7655]

Occupational therapist here. I hope we can soon get to the point, as a society, where using a wheelchair or another mobility device isn’t seen as a weakness. The wheelchair is empowering, not restricting, for so many people.

[@dannyderani6844]

Mason, I met you @ Craig hospital. I’m the dad of Kaitlynn Derani. You kicked my butt in foosball, air hockey and everything we played. I think of you a lot. Kaitlynn shows me your progress. We are so proud of you! You’re an amazing man! I knew it the moment I met you. Your youtube short popped up today. I’m going to follow you on youtube now. I’m praying for you! You’re a real athlete. This is your sport now. You’re going to accomplish this. I don’t think people or athletes understand the hard work you put in. You and others in your sport (condition) are truly amazing and inspirational. Keep the videos going. Your charm, personality is coming through. Your a great person! I love you man…..

[@BeforeThisNovember]

Wow what a testimony. You’re a great man yourself, Danny. Best of luck to you and your daughter.

[@bettyeskew7225]

My mother was a quadriplegic for 22 years. She was the strongest person. I love your tenacity to live life on your terms. Yay!

[@mason_branstrator]

That is so sweet thank you!!

[@heyoitsollie]

I think it’s so important and amazing that you reframed what meaningful living meant to YOU and how by letting go of the goal that most abled people view as _”the goal”_ you were able to live a better quality of life and do more things that brought you joy. So cool dude, thanks for sharing!

[@sam7bam]

I'm an occupational therapist that has worked extensively with SCI rehab. The point you've made at the end of this video is so very important. When the post- event rehab process is done and you've gotten what you can out of it, your journey isn't over. Community reintegration and leisure engagement are critically important to reestablishing quality of life and meaning. I had a minor SCI when I was 18 that I've mostly had a full functional recovery from (far more good days than bad), and that is what got me into my profession. Keep fighting. Subscribed.

[@Magical_Thinking]

Hey @sam7bam, I was an SCI RN at a VA hospital and was in awe of our patients. The general public has no idea what OT’s do and the huge impact that they make in their patients quality of life. Especially ones like you who work in specialties such as SCI, TBI, and post CVA. About 30 years ago I found a book about a young mother who had a massive stroke during child birth and was supposedly left in a vegetative state. She was probably in her late 20’s early 30’s and her family placed her in a nursing home due to the enormous amount of care that she required. Long story short, after laying in bed for 15 years a miracle occurred and someone had a feeling that this patient was more aware than anyone believed possible. An OT consult was ordered, went to evaluate the patient and said, “Julia, if you understand what I’m saying look up for yes”. It was the first time in 15 years that anyone had treated her like a human being and addressed her directly by name. Needless to say, Julia started looking up immediately! Tho OT created an alphabet & communication board that enabled Julia to spell out words by pointing to letters using a stick that she held in her mouth. Julia ended up writing a book called, ‘Look Up For Yes’ and it tells her story about being “Locked In” in a time when it wasn’t even known to be possible. The book is still available and was written (dictated by pointing to one letter at a time) by a woman named Julia Tavaloro. Check it out & keep up the great work with your SCI patients. I’ve been unable to work for the past 5 years due to lumbar spinal stenosis and extreme degeneration & compression in my C-spine. Despite having cared for SCI, TBI, and home care patients with severe loss of function due to neurological diseases, I didn’t truly comprehend how life changing relatively minor insults to our vertebrae can impact the ability to perform basic day to day functions & ability to work. Learning to mentally accept my physical limitations has been much more difficult than the limitations themselves.

[@MotivationalMessagesbyJen]

You are so inspirational! I am a T2-T12 fusion + spinal cord compression at T3 and T12. I needed this video and the hope you have given me! I have one more surgery to go through - I will walk again 😁 and if I'm only blessed with the ability I have right now, I won't feel like a failure. Thank you so much for making life more valuable than walking Thank you. God bless you

[@mason_branstrator]

This is so special!! Thank you for this wonderful support and I wish you the best on your journey!!

[@minabass5034]

Hi ..you mention about meds u take for spasm ..whats the name of that meds?thank you

[@mason_branstrator]

@@minabass5034 Baclofen

[@minabass5034]

@@mason_branstrator thank you

[@user-jy1md7vk1w]

​@@mason_branstrator I take baclofen for when I get pinched nerves or my back seizes up. My family & I have learned that it makes me grumpy and intolerant the next day. Not sure if everyone gets that symptom. I try to take mine when I won't face anyone outside my home the next day. Or else I know to smile, not talk, and try not to bite heads off. Generally I'm very happy, friendly, optimistic. So that medicine hits me hard. It can be managed, if you find you get that side effect. Lots of smiling and warn of a sharp tongue. 🙂😬🙊🤐🤷‍♀️

[@SassafrasPaul-cq7uw]

I suffer from PTSD and a back injury that I received in 1999 from an inmate when I was a correctional officer in a men's close custody institution. The spasms are horrendous to say the least. You are an amazing inspiration. I wish & pray for your continued success in whatever you choose to do. Your positive attitude will be a game changer.

[@ReinaHogen-nh3pj]

I love that you started living again, it’s so worth it ❤️ That’s from a girl with paraplegic parents (car accident at 14 and polio at 4). They did everything like you are doing! Wheelchair basketball, boating, waterskiing. horseback riding and everything in between. My sister and I never saw them as being different than our friends parents because they had the best most positive attitudes and never let their disabilities get in the way. Good for you! My heart is so full seeing you accomplish so many things. When I saw your videos of you walking around the car to put your chair in and walk back, it brought back memories of my mom doing that with her truck. God bless you and keep on living!!

[@cfalkner1012]

Fellow T12 ASIA B here. My accident was three years ago now, and although my path was slightly different, I have come to very similar conclusions about walking and the time sink it is. Take care of those shoulders! 💪🏼

[@marko7843]

Dude, my 1st compliment is how you have performed a "cost-benefit analysis" and decided just how much leg action you need... Secondly though, I think you have a career as an editor in front of you. Seriously, you crammed a whole lot of technical information into 11 minutes of totally comprehensible cuts & fast-forwards! 👏

[@GregTroy]

Wow! So impressed! Reminds me of FDR dealing with his leg paralysis. Only wish kids world-wide had your impressive stamina.

[@MrFlakko30]

Amazing story!!! I have a Spinal Cord Injury, C3-C5. Was given 5% chances of ever walking again. Willpower is an amazing thing. I'm glad you have succeeded in putting your story here. I've tried but I only have a couple of videos.

[@macej5101]

Keep on working at walking! I love your videos. in Feb 2022 I survived from cervical myelomalacia along with much more damage to my spine. It’s been a battle and I was able to take my first step. I hated my wheelchair. But I kept on fighting. Siskin rehab hospital was amazing. But I was grateful because I worked at Siskin before as a rehab nurse. Your method is amazing. Believe in the therapy. But I decided to build my daily routine ( with the help of my veterans health administration physical therapy team) and ability to change it so the decrease mundane workouts. I built my workout boards. But when my spine “feels” to tired I do pay the price. Being and staying positive is key and enjoy life. Your amazing!

[@pattyolson3842]

You are inspiring. It's so cool to see the many things that you've been able to do, while not "walking" as you used to be able to do. Your determination to keep up your upper body strength and doing the leg stretches, standing & your type of walking keeps you as independent and able to do more than I can as one who walks typically. I don't train for triathlons, play tennis or go ice fishing. You inspire me to not only be more active, but to try something new.

[@mrxman581]

It's obvious you've made the conscious decision to learn and grow from your experiences. Self awareness is such a necessary aspect to help overcome very difficult circumstances in one's life. Well done, and keep it up. Very inspiring to see how you've decided to also help others navigate traumatic life events through your own journey. I've relied on turning to the Serenity Prayer throughout my life especially in difficult situations to help me focus. "Give me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." BTW, you're also helping to educate those, like myself, who haven't been impacted by such life events to better understand and empathize with those who have. Thanks for that too.

[@eswarikamireddy260]

Please don't stop trying whenever you can. I got inspired by your video and said to myself that I can also walk again if I try hard. I know it's not completely possible, at least it will take me somewhere where I can be independent. Wishing you all the success in whatever you want to do.

[@theeves4351]

Very inspiring ~ I have a SCI, I can walk slowly with canes but it’s not easy and very exhausting. I’m very hesitant to use a wheelchair even though I’m sure it will make my life easier. I think deep down I associate the wheelchair with no hope of walking like I used to. I know I should expand my beliefs on what “walking” means. I hope to be as strong and determined as you are and not let my SCI ruin my life. You’re lucky you have a lot of people who cares and supports you. I wish I had that. Take care~~ A fellow SCInjured ✨

[@sarahrayer3990]

You are such an amazing young man! So articulate and positive!!! Your parents must me so proud of you. Keep up the videos and the good work!!!! So proud of you!

[@TheSpamprincess16]

I am a 34 year old mom of 6. I lost my ability to walk & went blind in both eyes 4 years ago. You are the first person I have felt seen by. I do not have a spinal cord inquiry, but I do have little sensation below the waist (I can feel pressure) clonus (I call bunny hop), some wild spasms in both legs, what I call Fire & Ice...where my legs will "feel" like they are on fire or on ice and quickly switch back & forth. My sensation has come back slightly, from the top down. And I do have hope of more. But I have also come to terms with the fact that a wheelchair will continue to be part of my life, even with progress. I found your page through shorts recently, and I am so glad I did! It has been such a gift to see someone who is so similar in abilities ..there is some comfort in knowing that there is some understanding there. Thanks for posting. This was extremely educational.

[@peteviney958]

Mason, what a remarkable young man you are. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@TwiPrime]

Congratulations on dealing with these big changes in your life. Acceptance is a powerful thing. Thank you for sharing. ❤️

[@mason_branstrator]

Thank YOU! Glad you appreciated my story!

[@JonDeth]

I am disabled and we are unfortunately the most overlooked and underappreciated demographic in 1st world nations. *I'm just glad to see you are able to get the assistance you need to heal and continue growing as a person.*

[@jodisoneway]

Hi Mason, as always, I'm so impressed by your maturity and willingness to share every aspect of your life and recovery in a way we all can understand. I look forward to your future adventures starting with the triathlon, (and hopefully including time for more game nights), as you begin taking control of your life, storming forward in your wheelchair. 🥰❤️

[@mason_branstrator]

Thanks Jodi!! I can’t wait for some more game nights too! I love the “storming forward in your wheelchair” line that is totally me! 😁❤️🧑🏽‍🦽💨

[@user-jy1md7vk1w]

Did you see his triathlon shorts video? Chills! Super cool moment!! 1st video I saw of his channel

[@victoriaseeburger3343]

You have such an amazing outlook on life! So glad you are living life to the fullest! Many non-paralyzed people don't even do that...

[@JDignum]

Exactly. That is why this young man is so generally inspirational. 😃👏🖖

[@ayadmarhoon1484]

I love this so much. People kept saying that I was giving up by becoming more dependent on a wheelchair and not doing as much to keep walking. It's so true that committing to the wheelchair gives you so much more time and freedom, but people don't understand that and it doesn't make sense from their perspective.

[@rsnikwad]

Having the right mental attitude goes a very long way to your recovery. As a total laryngectomy , I know. Well done young man, may God bless you and your dreams come true!

[@VHangout]

Came from TikTok to hear your story. Very glad I did. Your outlook and progress are out of this world. Keep it up! Your sharing will help so many people.

[@mason_branstrator]

THAT IS AWESOME!! Thank you! Really appreciate this, I will definitely keep it up!

[@digitalization]

Not sure why this was recommended to me after 11 months of it being posted, but this was very educational and inspirational (which you might be tired of hearing, but remains true). Recovery means something different for every situation but we truly need to embrace what we have and enjoy life how we can.

[@luciancombs4463]

Dude you're amazing. And inspiring. We'll never meet, but just know that you have helped me, and many others, deal with whatever we're going through by the strength and sheer force of will that you show. You are incredible.

[@Maggies87]

Similar analysis and lessons apply to how we adjust to major, sudden, life events that we can’t change, but that change us and our daily existence permanently. Much respect to you.

[@jtcorey7681]

I work with students with disabilities in higher ed. We typically say “Uses a wheelchair” rather than “Confined to a wheelchair.” “Uses” is more accurate and less limiting. I hope this is helpful to everyone. 😄

[@jumpinjupiter1165]

He is using the word 'confined' for a reason. "I thought I was..." At this moment I am in a wheelchair and I am more interested in the precision and freedom of his expression.

[@rollingwiththepunch3s]

As a wheelchair user this is one of those really annoying micro details that able bodied people fixate around as if acknowledging our existence is gonna shatter our emotions. Many of us are confined to a wheelchair, it’s an extension of our being, and it’s honestly more offensive that the terminology you’re using is trying to disregard that aspect. The man is disabled, he can refer to himself however he chooses. I call myself cripple, I can also refer to myself however I choose. Idk who’s feelings your trying to protect, but on behalf of disabled people, we are not concerned about preserving yours.

[@doonewatts7155]

I am not a T12 paraplegic and know no one who is but I caught a couple of your shorts is you Mason. Your strength of character blows me away and learning about your condition, progress and life is, strange to say, heartwarming

[@claravoyant6420]

I injured my t12 (but not my spinal cord) about 3 years ago as well and luckily my recovery was much smoother. I wishing you the best in this journey, thank you for sharing your story

[@playwithmilygool]

I don’t when I will feel emotional strong enough to watch your video without crying I got to 2:41 before I felt myself choking up, but seeing you have such a positive mindset gives me so much courage about my own injuries, I feel u on not knowing what walking really means after a traumatic accident and that wheelchair/Walker/cane users can still walk, u thank you’re for your content, it’s been helping me a lot mentality ❤

[@freistilfortniteknaben71023]

I am so amazed at the determination persistence. I've been challenged with my issues, I had to stop this 3x- bcuz I...I cry tears of joy for this dude.🙏❤️☮️

[@meamotta]

You are extraordinary and so wise! So impressed with how you are conducting your life! Wow!!!!!!!!!!

[@cesarrobledo7778]

Hey Mason, your video seriously put words to my thoughts that I developed in the past 9 years of my injury. Gunshot, T-10 incomplete, 2014 @ 18 yrs old. Walking can be very frustrating, but also not necessary to live our lives like you’ve discovered. I have also came to the same conclusion of not prioritizing rehab the way I did early into my injury. I think accomplishing certain goals that make a more immediate impact to our lives, while slowly recovering is better. You have a really positive mindset early on into your injury, and I believe that’s huge for those that recover. Healthy state of mind is huge for our recovery believe it or not. When I walk when I’m frustrated vs not, is incredibly different, much more spastic and drop foot is crazy! I think these injuries are meant to slow us down and observe life differently, with a deeper meaning. Eventually develops our ability to be better at controlling our thoughts and emotions. I don’t know your life but I guarantee, you’re gonna be presented with many opportunities that make your life very exciting that you never thought possible bc of this injury and it’s all happening bc you’re not staying stagnant brotha! You’re being blessed with what you’re putting out in life, you wanna help others and it will be returned to you. Keep pursuing life the way you are Mason, the end we thought once was, is actually the beginning! 🫡💪💪🤘 -Cesar

[@dianelove2648]

Saw your channel for the 1st.time. wow. Your are incredible. You.have on hell of a super grest sttitude. God..bkess yiu son and kerp up the g reat work

[@rosewoods1496]

Brave man. You are an inspiration to all of us even if we don't have physical disabilities. So positive inspite of what was a terrible accident and injury.

[@so4real]

You're taking a "stand" in more ways than anyone could imagine. 👏 A true inspiration 🙌. Keep pushing 💪 🤎

[@mason_branstrator]

Haha thank you will do!!

[@Lumar.]

Espero te encuentres mejor, comento esto en español para que no te rindas y no te desanimes en subir videos, estas llegando muy lejos y la verdad amo tus videos me motivan mucho a no darme por rendida en estos momentos de mi vida, al igual que tu aún soy joven tengo 20 años, pero ver que otro ser humano se despierta cada dia y sigue adelante me da mucha esperanza y me hace sentir acompañada, no te conozco pero te mando un fuerte abrazo ❤.

[@Lumar.]

Maybe can you try to translate the message, i made with a lot of love and gratitude❤.

[@Jazzy.girl.Sarah2023]

That hand cycle is so cool! You're a rockstar! Best of luck as you prep for your triathlon! You have such a wonderful attitude. Thank you again for sharing your experiences.

[@mason_branstrator]

it is amazing!! thank you so much for all of the support!

[@patricklivingston5592]

I just stumbled on your channel. I have damage to L4 and L5 due to back surgery for stenosis that got mrsa and had to be done again. As a result I have a right leg that works intermittently they have no clue why. I am 63 was very active but like you I wont give up, I can now walk slowly one step at a time. It was wheelchair 3 years, then a walker with wheels and brakes. You inspire me so much to continue to live strong. Hope, trust, and faith from me and love from so many has gotten me here. I will send hope and love your way. I wont stop Mason we will reach our goals, I have complete faith. Love and support Pat.

[@kenzieormond6779]

I had my accident a year ago and spent a year in hospital due to a bed sore its honestly so wild how quick everything can change and how much there is to keep an eye on and seeing your videos when i first had my accident inspired me tonnes even tho i didn't walk out of hospital just glad to still be here now tbh and ready to crack on and keep learning about life your an inspiration and should be proud of how strong youve been

[@ignaciojaque9983]

You're helping me go through some hard stuff with your story. Thank you so much for being as real as they come: honest, raw, and direct. Wishing nothing but the best

[@kathleen.correia]

Mason, you’re inspiring❤️ I’m seeing your videos from Brazil, I hope your history reaches other people

[@memesandmasculinity5491]

Well done. Keep pushing!

[@jessicanelson-88]

what an inspiration. I have no doubt Mason will go very far in life

[@jonathanv.hoffmann3089]

🎉🎉🎉 You Are The Champion!!! 🎉🎉🎉 You Show us that we are stronger than we think. Thank you and keep fighting! We are here with you! From your brasilian friend! See you some day!

[@almaparagua8697]

Mason I wanted to say that You're my fav KZbinr in the world hope you recover soon

[@Mtz2604]

I'm so impressed with your mental and physical strength. Your internal growth is palpable and it makes me feel motivated and proud. As you say, we can't control what life throws at us, but we can control what we're gonna do about it. It takes a lot but it worths every single second of your efforts. I hope you can achieve your goals and thank you so much for sharing your story with us.

[@eileencollins2536]

You are incredible. Your maturity, your ability to understand what is best for you...... amazing. ❤

[@128n]

Praying for you Mason. I am humbled by your strength and mind set.All power to your heartfelt journey.Only the best to you.❤

[@bphealthxfitness]

Well done Mase, so excited to see the future and everything you set out to achieve! I’m lucky to be a part of any training whatever that may be, forever and always 💪

[@mason_branstrator]

My man 🤝😎🙏🏻 thanks blake!

[@smokindauberdoo4208]

You are amazing helping him and giving him motivation I woke up end of January and couldn't walk Found out I had lung cancer wrapped around my spine It's been a journey but can now walk about 170 feet with a walker Hopefully going home end of September This gives me a great idea of what I need to do when I get home 😇

[@bphealthxfitness]

@@smokindauberdoo4208 love it! Keep testing yourself and pushing the limits. I’m happy to hear you are seeing progress and wish more gains for your journey!!

[@fabiaregina]

You are quite a inspiration! And you being so young (and deep) give me hope for the future! We will build a future for all of us!

[@Blessedpb]

Wow, what a remarkable person with a remarkable story. Wonder how many peoples lives you will encourage and change... I know many but just how many. Thank you for being such a blessing. Many years ago (45 years ago) I worked for a man confined to a wheel chair. His autopsy showed MS but at the time they didn't know. He was such an inspiration of all of us who were younger and healthier than him. He has been gone for 40 yr and I still miss his inspiration in my life. I'll be watching for you on youtube subscribed. Blessings, p

[@bellaangus1213]

You’re such an inspiration to me. I don’t have any physical spinal injuries. I’ve got a broken heart.

[@cherylcorbitt4540]

My words are weak to respond to your beauty. My prayer is for your amazing insight to grow daily. May God bless you richly.

[@ok2bout]

You’re an amazing young man who has shown that with dedication and hard work that it’s possible to overcome the obstacles and struggles of a spinal cord injury. About 15 years ago a friends son had a trampoline accident which resulted in him being paralyzed from the chest down. In fact Ty Pennington from Extreme Makeover came in and totally remodeled his parents home with the state of the art technology to allow him to live as independently as possible. He and his family were dedicated to getting him to walk as well but like yourself walking after a spinal injury is on a scale and is different from person to person. Thank you for sharing your story and giving hope to other new spinal cord injury patients. I’m very proud of you.

[@LFROSTVEVO]

Man, you make me feel ungrateful. I suffered a SCI in 2010, but it did not leave me paralyzed. It did damaged my nervous system though but all i have to do is take medication every 8 hours. Really, i am lucky af. Thanks for this perspective shift. I wish you the best of luck.

[@bradschofield9400]

i’m so pleased that KZbin pushed your content in my direction. Wow, what a story you tell and i’m pulled into your life situation in such a compelling manner. You really have a talent to inspire “talley ho / moving forward” idealism. It really is a mind game regarding how we fulfill ourselves and vanquish our demons. You seem to have achieved black belt level already, so I can’t wait to see how you pile on (double down) from here. i’m okay with miracles, but i think you can actually command a substantial recovery all by yourself. i’ll be patient, engaged, and pray for you. Bless you and thanks for making me feel fortunate to be just typical.

[@ionamoebam5931]

It takes allot of Courage to do what your doing and every SCI is different .After surgery on my spine i became a paraplegic at the age of 23 it took years before i could fell anything from he waist down and more then a decade before i could walk about a block or tow with AFO's on both legs and a cane i am 44 years old now .

[@karlaharvey2623]

Mason , it’s great that you have determination to live your New life as full as possible and that your not giving up. Your a great inspiration to so so many paraplegics and quadriplegics. Thank you young man

[@rigodegracia813]

I congratulate you for that great desire to move forward, not seeing your current situation and not doing it. Greetings from Panama.

[@pgicruiser3128]

You are amazing and an inspiration. I have shared your videos with a couple of friends that use wheelchairs. Keep up the good work and stay positive.

[@Tiptoefoot]

Your story should be made a movie, so amazing! Thank you for sharing your story!

[@lynfawcett221]

Mason, you are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing your recovery . The way you found out about what is beneficial for you and the way you share that information is admirable. Bless you.

[@vickythefist7062]

A ski accident!! I was not expecting that . congratulations on moving your leg recently at your first triathlon. Wishing you a successful and productive and most of all a happy 2024 .😊

[@MadeaNH]

As a PT (disabled and no longer working), I’ve seen the many people come to the conclusion you have regarding walking. Although many people with incomplete SCIs are able to walk, their walking ultimately, is not functional. It doesn’t allow them to get from point A to point B in a timely manner. It also doesn’t allow them to carry or move objects, is dangerous on some surfaces and doesn’t allow them to keep up with others in a group situation. Many times, it requires the assistance of another or others, which again, is not functional. Keep up the amazing life you’ve built for yourself. The triathlons, pickle ball, traveling, camping, ice fishing are great. Adaptive skiing is also possible if you feel it’s something you could try again without it being traumatic for you. Through Craig Hospital and other organizations (here in NH we have Northeast passage), the opportunities for adaptive sports are endless. You are an inspiration, especially to newly injured young men and women who seeks to regain as much of their lives as possible. You are showing them it is possible. It may look different but is just as fulfilling. Mason, you rock!!!!

[@warrenisaac5634]

You are certainly inspiring ma.y people including myself to have gratitude in my life and find my own courage. My don't have a spinal cord injury but you give me encouragement to overcome my own challenges! Best wishes for a great 2024!

[@becklyn3]

I have t12 incomplete spinal chord injury also and walking is totally out of the question. My toes twitch sometimes but that is it. I have had absolutely no muscle movement from the waste down. At first I was sad about this but then I realized not having any spasms definitely has its advantages. So long story short I've realized every persons spinal injury is different just like a fingerprint. What one person has another doesn't and all have their positives and negatives. I agree with you that the wheelchair is such a blessing, I can keep up with everyone else and do so much. Learning to give up on certain things isn't always a negative sometimes it is quite freeing just like you said.

[@joemalfoy7780]

great video mason! embracing mobility aids can be so freeing ❤ i love seeing the ways you have adapted your unique injury and recovery to improve your mobility and your life in the best way for you. your new mindset is amazing, and a great message to everyone inside and outside the disability community :)

[@Jugallo-u5o]

More power to you. You will be better soon . Keep hope alive.

[@mxslick50]

Mason, you are a fantastic young man, and a fighter. You are an inspiration, and even braver for sharing your story on social media. I have known a few motocross racers who ended up paralyzed, and they didn't have half the determination you have. TBH I wonder if, in the event I get seriously hurt doing my motocross racing (I am turning 61 in Jan. BTW), I would have the strength you do to fight and recover. I saw your short with your mom, and you are blessed to have her and your family to support you. I wish you all the best.

[@sharemyjoys]

I agree completely with your way of thinking. I had a T12 injury last year, no spasms, a bit worse but similar to yours. I could struggle every day to try and walk but everyone can walk. Why not work on something you can do better? It's a balance of improving weaknesses and consolidation of strengths

[@llcooljay520]

I have just discovered your content. Thanks for sharing your story. You are an inspiration! Congrats on your amazing mindset. Wow!

[@jak9483]

I think you are so Brave and amazing. I have had a tough journey through my life but I never learned your wisdom so early on. I have only learned my wisdom through old age, but better late than never I suppose! God bless you and have a long and happy life.

[@williebell3742]

This video really helped me with its positive message. Dealing with a brain tumor diagnosis and pretty down in the dumps. Your words are so true. Thank you.

[@johnlarson505]

You should post an update video. You have an interesting and inspirational story. Thanks for sharing it. I hope things are good for you.

[@HighTen_Melanie]

Thank you for sharing from a fellow sci survivor. You are truly an amazing person.

[@praisehiminthedance]

You are an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your courageous life.

[@Jazzy.girl.Sarah2023]

OK, so also your hair looks so healthy and awesome.

[@mason_branstrator]

haha! thanks, I've been growing it out since the last video!

[@tillenavick8993]

Thank you for your words of sharing your journey. You are inspiring to me by sharing your process, journey and mindset. Your progress and attitude through all of this is amazing. I have degenerative disks in my back, and I shake from peripheral neuropathy. I have bad disks in my neck and lower back. I had 2 weeks of physical therapy, where they basically used heat and electrolysis. I was rold to do swim therapy, but there wasn't a faciity near me, and car rides wear me out. I was prescribed a walker and wheelchair, which I hated. I struggle with mental health decline, hating myself because I could no longer do the things that I used to due to tremors, balance, and pain. I felt I gave up so much of myself and my freedom. I returned to my crafting side of myself through crocheting and resin, slowly building my self encouragement back up. I still struggle with feeling like a failure and disappointment because I can't do things like cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, etc. I watch mainly KZbin, so please can you post some videos on how you connected with others who were walking challenged, but still handicapable!

[@wheels845]

T12?L1 incomplete SCI climbing accident. Been using ba chair since1979. I was rocking life till about 2017. That's when I sold my Jewelery shop. I ran it for 25 years, made alot of new friends and made and repaired thousands of pieces of jewelry.Anyhow, the disconnect from not seeing customers cut off a big part of my social community. In the early stages of my injury I learned how to walk with braces but after awhile my wrists were not digging it. So off I went into daily use of a wheelchair. Anyhow, Kudos to you for not giving up.

[@noneyabeesness1793]

Thanks for sharing this. It’s interesting to hear how your mindset evolved over the last 2 years and how you are making the most of what your body can do.

[@mason_branstrator]

Of course! I felt it was my duty to share especially after the first video! Always making the best of what I’ve got!

[@VictoriaLewis-CWOQueen]

This is so inspiring to never give up no matter what❤️❤️

[@tonythetank9842]

You are a very brave guy. Keep doing what you are doing. NEVER give up.

[@DavidNatashaDeck]

Keep up the awesome work man, love your attitude. Im a incomplete L1 also working through rehab. Inspiring video.

[@mason_branstrator]

Thank you man!! Best of luck!

[@jensenkimmBA]

So glad you survived, love your attitude and your video is so uplifting; you are so smart, use your education to serve you well ❤

[@jaeljade3609]

My doctor said the same thing, This is only be as good as I make it. I don't process pain the same way as other people do because of fibromyalgia and cfs/me and learning to walk again was excruciating. I cried watching you push through it because it must be so difficult for you, and it shows how much fight you have in you. I quit PT because I had a really poor attitude. For the first time in my life I felt actual anger. This is going to sound cliche, but you really are an inspiration. I wish I was more like you.

[@mikafizz1022]

Thank you for your honesty vulnerability and story, regardless your spirit is very inspiring.

[@JDMvids1105]

Awesome video bro. 4 months ago I got injured at work, compression on T6 led me to be a paraplegic. I wish that I could have access to some of the therapy you have had. Good luck on your recovery

[@nickwilliams3659]

Only just seen this video of yours. I'm convinced your amazing in being able to get as far as you have, Anyone who has had the injury you have had have my upmost respect. I hope you get to a position you want to get to. You also (imho) have an interesting and attractive positivitly and personality.

[@whitesage2066]

God bless you ! And you can do it some wwe wrestlers do get life threatening injury and some got paralyze too but manage to recover and im rooting for your fast recovery.🙏