How I Became Paralyzed - My Story | Quadriplegic (C5,C6,C7)

[@masonx54]

What is your story?

[@nigelfernandez4092]

In 1995, I was diagnosed with a primary Brainstem tumour called a glioma which involved the lower pons down to C4. At the time, a biopsy could not be considered as the neural structures could easily be damaged causing severe disability or death. The brainstem is only about the size of ones baby finger but controls things like heart beat, respiration, digestion, conciousness, eating, swallowing, hearing, walking, seeing etc... It is at the base of the brain which connects to the spinal canal and houses 10 out of 12 cranial nerves. Sinces symptoms were relatively mild, they decided to watch it. The problem is by not taking a biopsy, one essentially learns nothing about the tumour and cannot develop treatments. By the time I was 17, I developed problems with movement disorders. More specifically, I developed severe spasticity with tremor movements throughout my body. This involved my legs, arms, shoulders, trunk that had painful twisting movements. I had constant tremors in my hands. In fact, the tremors through out my body were so severe that I had spasticity without the rigidity or stiffness. However, continued to develop blepharospasm and facial weakness. Day to day tasks became difficult. Doctors were worried my tumour had transformed into a high grade tumour. I had radiation therapy not as a cure but to control growth. Unfortunately, I developed a incomplete spinal cord injury, brain injury and Glaucoma as a result. My irregular movements disappeared but continue to have spasticity and do not walk. Much like yourself, I didn't receive the appropriate amount of rehab. In fact, I didn't receive any. It wasn't offered. So I had to learn everything myself. However, only the motor tracts are currently affected. I have full sensation. Despite everything, I am a student with the college of Kinesiology at the university of Saskatchewan. I take two classes per term because of my brain injury. I have also been a guest lecturer in several Neurology classes at the school of Physical therapy and have one article published in a journal called Synapse. Doctors are baffled. Many patients with this condition dont live past 18 months. In fact, 90% of those patients. They are also surprised that I can breath on my own, have normal cardiac function and have a meaningful conversation. I always tell people that there is a world of possibilities. If you persevere and stick by your standards, you will achieve something that you are proud of. Find the hero in that part of your soul.

[@masonx54]

Thanks for sharing your story!

[@moneymurray7713]

fell off a 35 foot celing, need a crutch to get aroud.

[@connorfarmer6277]

In July I crashed my motorcycle, I suffered a broken arm, dislocated elbow, fractured pelvis, fracture of multiple vertebrae, massive hematoma on my left butt cheek . The worst of the injuries was nerve root avulsions of C6-T1 leaving my entire right arm and hand completely paralyzed. Also I’m 23

[@kimbasaramieke]

Hi everyone, hope everyone is having a good year so far. Here’s my story: I was born with a congenital disorder, called, an AVM aka arteriovenous malformation, I’ve had 5 embolizations over time, to shut down the blood flow, they go into my groin with a small catheter up-to my brain and insert some type of glue like substance to shut down blood flow. Unfortunately they couldn’t shut the whole thing down, so there was still 10% of the AVM open. So on December the 22 nd of 2017, I suffered a masssive hemorrhagic stroke from that AVM ( right side of my cerebellum) , I was 7 months pregnant at the time, everything’s A- okay with the little one, nearly killing me,in fact, they asked my husband and father a couple of times to let me go, I’ve spend 2 months in a coma and 9 months in rehab. I’m in a wheelchair due to severe balance issues, my physiotherapist still comes,first 5 times per week, now 3 times . I wish it didn’t happen, but at least I get to stay at home with my loving hubby and son,who’s 3 now BTW . I wish everyone all the best, greetings from Belgium

[@LectronCircuits]

Paralyzing crashes can happen to anybody at any time. Let's be careful out there! Audience wishes him all the best. Cheers!

[@masonx54]

That's very true! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@pattimeyer5214]

Mason, we knew you you when you were a little boy at First Baptist. We moved in 2011. We prayed for you as we heard of your accident via FB, but we didn’t know your whole story. May God continue to bless you to be an inspiration and encouragement for those with similar injuries - as well as to all who face difficulties. Blessings, Pastor Brent and Patti Meyer

[@masonx54]

Yes, I remember you and Brent. Thank you for praying for me and watching my videos.

[@blakearius]

I once crashed at a similar speed for a similar reason. In overconfidence I went over a hill in an open convertible way faster than I thought, lost traction, spun 180 and went backward. Most of the impact was taken by the back wheel hitting the curb, just missed the guardrail that ended and rolled into a pine tree that was on lean which again softened the impact. My side door only crumpled slightly and my brother and friend in the back who were basically standing were thrown into the tree leaves.. we all walked away with barely a scratch. It could have gone so bad, I was stupid and very lucky. Still my dad was even luckier.. he was hit at 90km by a drunk driver and survived with a brain injury, superbug infection, rods in leg, no smell and years of seizures. 1% survival rate.. and I wouldn't even exist if that hadn't happened. Life is wild.

[@masonx54]

I appreciate you sharing your story. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@endtimeawakening5557]

I'll share my story with you Mason. I was 38 years old when my injury occurred. I was off from work that day and remodeling our gameroom at the house we'd just moved into. After working all day I jumped in the shower and decided to hop on my motorcycle for a refreshing ride. I had a Honda CBR900RR which was a blast to ride. For some reason it liked to ride on one wheel a lot. Anyway, I was out on road coming home at around 530pm when a car crossed my path and I hit him broadside. My body took the full impact from a 50mph to zero deceleration. I broke a chest full of ribs, my right arm, jaw, right leg, and had a t6 level spinal injury. I spent 4 months in the hospital and rehab and was quite reluctant to leave that place. That was 20 years ago as I remember it well. It was the same year that the towers went down in NYC. A bad year indeed! Anyway, that's my story Mason. I pray that Father richly blesses you young man!!!

[@masonx54]

Thank you for sharing your story!

[@endtimeawakening5557]

@@masonx54 You're a true inspiration Mason! I can't imagine what Father has planned for you. Bless you brother!

[@guyrabinowitz]

Much compassion to you, young man. You're young enough that there may be medical progress in your lifetime that will allow you to be fully functional again. You are brave and a respectable communicator. Listening to your story was painful because of the injustice you have been dealt.

[@masonx54]

That would be great to be physically fully functional again, but I'm alright if it doesn't come in my lifetime as I'm living life just like I would've able-bodied. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@dwightpierce1891]

After seeing your vehicle Its a miracle you survived!

[@masonx54]

I know! I probably survived because I wasn't in it for very long. Haha Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@DianeWard-d8x]

Hello Mason. I have no story to tell but I wanted to comment on your post. I'm just an old lady in New Brunswick Canada that thinks you are a pilar of strength in my eyes. Keep spreading your beauty in and out to inspire others. With much love . Diane

[@masonx54]

Wow, I really appreciate that. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@tswart]

My dad was paralyzed in a car accident, he passed away 15 years after his accident. My biggest wish and prayer in life is that one day there will be a miraculous solution, that will bring total healing. God bless you young man.

[@masonx54]

I'm sorry that happened to him and you. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@StraightoutofFs]

Hi Mason, I’m a Paramedic/Firefighter. I really don’t understand why the EMTs didn’t give your dad any information. That part doesn’t make any sense to me. I would feel horrible leaving parents with no info. I can’t imagine their anguish. Even if I were too busy taking care of you I would have had someone else speak to them & at the very least tell them you had traumatic injuries & where you were going. Thankful you’re still here.

[@masonx54]

Yeah, I agree but they didn't know where I was going for some reason. I think someone else was trying to decide if I was going to Indianapolis or Evansville, so my parents had a 50/50 shot of making the right decision on which location to drive to. Crazy, I couldn't imagine. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@Rogue_Wave5150]

Ya weird

[@Chelle-yz5sc]

Same town.. many don’t even get paid

[@barbarella8205]

You are very strong and handsome! Go on, the world is yours!💪

[@seannash4695]

Good to see you recovering so well. Also very good to hear your positive attitude. I myself have a c5-c7 fusion with hardware as well as several herniated discs and a large osteophytic tumor on my lumbar spine. They say I could pass at any moment due to aortic aneurysm and or rupture. I say to this, "release the rascal" in humorous denial. 😎

[@jt3512]

You are one tough dude. I'm impressed with your determination my friend.

[@masonx54]

Thanks! Haha

[@DotAndDasho]

Hi Mason. My husband is a C6/7 incomplete quad. He was in a car accident in 1984 when he was 19. He is now 57 and has lived a challenging but also, for the most part, a happy life. Your story makes me sad mostly because the health care system has drastically changed for the worse and it is quickly becoming even more difficult. When my husband was first injured he received 2 years of in-patient rehabilitation. He went to a place called Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center in Fisherville, VA - which was over 2 hours away - so at the time, we all thought was ridiculous since we lived in a big city, 5 miles from DC. Surely they had a rehabilitation center in the nation’s capital, right? Nope. And to this day, the DC metro area is one of the worst places to live as a disabled person. In fact, the nationwide, and very popular, Abilities Expo stopped coming to DC because “there wasn’t enough interest” even though when we went (every year it was here), the place was so crowded & parking was a disaster. Sorry to have gone on to write a novel on your page, but I get so mad when I hear about new(er) injuries that have little to no rehab / support right after an injury. You seem like a fine young man and I’m thankful for your page. I will support your page and pray for your continued success. 🙏🏻❤️

[@masonx54]

I appreciate you sharing some of your husband's story. Earlier today, I actually searched the internet for what the average amount of time spent in the hospital was after becoming paralyzed, and it said 22 days. There's no way that is accurate, so I posted in a couple of spinal cord injury groups on Facebook asking how many days they spent in the hospital and in rehab after becoming paralyzed. A lot of people spent between four and nine months. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@lindachaney5092]

At 17 my boyfriend also was thrown from his Camero when we had pulled off the side of the highway to sleep as we were traveling. Of course that was a bad choice as we were hit from behind by a vehicle going 60. He was paralyzed from the waist down..I was on the floor of passenger side with my head on the seat so I was tucked in. What I remember also was the impact. Car flipped a number of times landed on the roof..I do not know how I got out of the car. My boyfriend had surgery but also broke vertebrae. So He never walked again .. we are now in our 60s and went our separate ways years earlier. We talked a few years ago. He married and they adopted 3 kids. I think of him often. Listening to you and your story, amazing guy with such a positive attitude..sending positive vibes and hugs

[@corinadaschievici1925]

It's a miracle that you're still alive!

[@masonx54]

Yes it is! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@corinadaschievici1925]

@@masonx54 yw:)

[@rubyred6954]

WOW, I always wear my seatbelt as I grew older and wiser. I can’t believe how far you were ejected. May god bless you and your friend as you continue together along life’s journey! Stay strong 💪

[@masonx54]

I appreciate that! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@rubyred6954]

@@masonx54 You are very welcome!! Best to you!

[@emmacoombes757]

Thanks for sharing your story. I care full time for my mum who has parkinsons dementia and had a stroke. I have done this for 12 years now. I have been feeding her for 3 years now. Her dementia took a turn. Well done you for all your efforts. Life is a gift.

[@masonx54]

You're a blessing to your mom. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@traceypuerner7876]

Dear Mason, I am glad you are alive. I am in a wheelchair. I fell down. I control of arms going upstairs I fell on my left leg, and left foot. The hospital said thatI broke my knees bone the tibia bone. I am 62 in wheelchair.

[@masonx54]

Are you in a wheelchair temporarily?

[@traceypuerner7876]

@masonx54 I don't know now. I am in pain. I am 62 years old for me to heal I am very poor. My situation is sad. I have 2 sons. One deat me up. He broke the lock on my bedroom door and grabbed my wheelchair I when the floor. My other son works 70 hours a week. He wanted to go to the doctors, but the hospital is joke they hit me, and they took the patient food like making can beans and gross food. Just I know what to do. I ask for. The police are no help here.

[@janegee565]

I live in the UK. I broke my neck in 1994 on holiday in Greece, diving. I drowned and was brought back to life. I am C5/C6 incomplete sensory, motor complete. I have terrible spasms and so have an indwelling Baclofen Pump - thankfully this and all my prescription drugs ( many ) and cathetar stuff are fully funded by the N.H.S. so I don't have those financial worries. Keep on making your videos bruv, they are inspirational. Thanks, Glenn.

[@masonx54]

Thank you for sharing some of your story. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@EcomJ]

I'm glad you're still here with us man. Its definitely a blessing to have a second chance at life. #GratefullyBlessed🙏🙏

[@masonx54]

Yes it is! Thanks!

[@EcomJ]

@@masonx54 C 5 through 7 incomplete. 3 year anniversary this past April.

[@GaryEllington-dy8li]

Your a walking 🚶‍♂️ miracle ✨️ by the grace of Jesus. 😊

[@DavidHernandez-oz4me]

Thanks for sharing , i ride My bike as a hobby, and this is My only fear, not dying but having My parents care for me. 😢 I'm glad You took this the Best way possible. I hope You find comfort in your hobbies and job. I draw everyday.

[@masonx54]

Yeah, I understand that. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@carpenter5575]

Wow it's crazy what some people go thru in life I can't imagine how difficult it's been in your recovery....hang in there buddy rooting for you

[@masonx54]

Yeah, and a lot of people have it much worse than myself. I am thankful that I have the abilities that I have. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@leonardhill4440]

Listen to how mature this young man is…he’s my hero. God bless you!

[@masonx54]

Haha I appreciate that. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@feliciahilaski7677]

I think it’s a wonderful thing you’re doing making these videos. My mom became a T10/11 paraplegic from spinal stenosis at 72. I know how hard your life is because I saw what she went through. My mom was a tough, wonderful woman. I thank you for sharing your journey

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@luischannel04]

Wow! What a story ? You explain your story in very great detail. Best wishes my friend.

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@monicaconstantin5625]

Holy shit !!!! You are a strong guy what a horrible accident !!! Must have been a very hard time for you.your positive attitude is inspiring and eye opening ,yes the doctors can't always be right. So glad you and your friend survived.

[@gerryk101]

Hey ,So the weirdest thing ?Your story is very similar to mine and about 85% to what you told .Even the injuries and how it could’ve ended had the safety belt been worn.My buddy was also next to me and they asked him also but couldn’t find me .I was ejected and found 30m away from the car in a ditch.I live on the other side of the world.Hang in there ,The battle never ends .

[@masonx54]

Thanks for watching and commenting part of your story!

[@masonx54]

Your two other comments on my videos say, "This comment is no longer available." I'm not sure why this happens sometimes.

[@gerryk101]

@@masonx54 yeh it keeps giving me an error.Maybe you would be interested in this in the future.I’ve been using it independently on a daily basis for the past 11 years . It’s a hoist to transfer and helped me a lot. It’s called “Likorall 250 electric hoist”

[@horsewnoname872]

Thank you, Mason for sharing your story. The pictures, all the pictures, say one thing very clearly. God is on your side in every way. The Montero was ripped up in a way that nobody would believe the two of you got out alive. The support of your family has meant the world to you and recovery; you realize just how much you are loved by your folks when disaster strikes. Your school, your friends, and community stood behind you when you needed it most - love the hats. I don't understand why or how they released you so early, but I realize everyone involved in getting you home paid close attention to every word spoken and filmed every detail in achieving your independence - Huge! Great things are destined for you as time passes!

[@gives_bad_advice]

maybe not in every way, considering the circumstances

[@dvssayer5621]

Hi Mason. I enjoyed listening to your story, and am keeping you in prayer. Im a nurse on the west coast. Have had many clients who got this injury. I try to find insights into the feelings and thoughts a person has. It seems so strange, when your world changes so dramatically and yet the everyday mundane things of life still go on. People come and go and do their stuff. I can see how you felt like you had been stopped, while the world kept moving. It seems like you finally found out how to get around in this world. I hope you know the Lord as He will help you through all of it. I gather that you do. Thanks for sharing and keep looking up, Jesus is coming soon! Talk about a new body! That will be something to look forward to!

[@masonx54]

Yes, that is a difficult thing to deal with. Yes, I know the Lord and here is my video of my testimony of faith: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnXUcp1teNKKp5Y Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@momobaby3769]

Oh snap. Indiana. Same dude!! Yeah. There are some sketchy roads. Im glad you made it ...

[@masonx54]

Haha Me too! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@angeladawn1473]

I’m in nursing school. This video really helped. Your are a true inspiration for those of us who complain. Thank you! You are the difference this world needs

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@v4v819]

Don't become a nurse they are evil and when i was a kid one shoved a tube up my penis i still remember screaming! Don't go to the dark side! help people but in a non evil way like volunteering! Volunteers are nice and never hurt me before so i can vouch for them!!!!!!!!!

[@Laura-ht6vs]

Hey Mason! Thank you for sharing your story. I don't know if you remember me but you helped me a few months ago purchase a cellphone charger that plugs into my power wheelchair. Anyway I am not paralyzed such as yourself but I am physically disabled differently from birth with a birthday defect called osteogenesis imperfecta. I think you did a great job making this video and I love your positive outlook. Keep up the great work. Sometimes life does get hard but that is true for everyone. You are young and I feel you could help many other young people who are in the same situation. Maybe you should consider becoming a positive motivational speaker for disabled people.

[@chavale2]

NOPE Mason should reflect how thing turned out terribly; I have provided answers above No Motivational talks USELESS making money under disguise of helping....purely theories Dude BJCASHMAKER$$$BIGG NOBEATINGTHEBUSHES

[@johnshifler5439]

You're doing great. Don't let anything stop you. There may be things you can't do but you will never know until you try.

[@masonx54]

That is true. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@donnaerdman899]

Thank you and God bless you Mason, you are an amazing person. You are providing an extremely valuable service through your videos. I am an OT and have learned so much from your videos to share with my patients. You are making a difference in this world! 🙏🏻

[@masonx54]

This is awesome to hear! Thank you very much!

[@1LilSparrow]

As an OT practitioner I want to apologize that my profession let you down and you did not receive the adequate services you needed when you got home. That makes me so sad because there are so many things they could've done for you to make your transition home easier. However I also want to thank you for your videos they are a great resource that I plan on using both for my patients as well as my students that I teach in OT school. Best of luck to you, keep up the good work!

[@masonx54]

Wow, thank you for using my videos!

[@GXP50]

I’m a C5-7 quad because in the Army I saved my buddy from dying from an ied explosion 💥 Received medals but I was forced to honorably discharge due to my near death injury. 🫡 Stay strong 💪🏾

[@masonx54]

Wow, thank you for your service and sacrifice, sir! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@sherylmalka3280]

Hey Mason! Your story is inspiring and your attitude toward life as it is now is awesome! Please keep that smile on your face and keep moving forward. I myself had a liver transplant and a brain aneurysm, and my family was told 4 times that I was going to die. I am still here! Thanks to lots of prayers and a good outlook toward just being happy that I am still alive. You will be in my thoughts and prayers forever! KEEP SMILING!!!

[@masonx54]

That's a blessing for you to still be alive, as it is for me too! Thanks for sharing some of your story. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@kishamaegeneralao4289]

You are one brave man, Mason. Keep on living. Sending you some love from the UK. 🤗🥰🥰🥰

[@masonx54]

Thank you!

[@kishamaegeneralao4289]

@@masonx54 you're very welcome! Take care xx

[@gives_bad_advice]

I could learn a lot from you. You understand the world in a way that I cannot imagine. At least not yet.

[@jcastillo8805]

Mason thank you for your story! Stay strong, look to the future, know that people look up to you and you are very strong for what you have went through!

[@masonx54]

I appreciate that! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@a.d.chreene3588]

You've got a great voice, bro, you should think about going into radio or starting a podcast. Glad you're doing well

[@masonx54]

Thank you! I have actually been told that several times. I would love to be a radio broadcaster. I do have a few episodes of a podcast from a few years ago. However, I do plan on starting it again after I graduate with a bachelor's degree in information technology next year. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@tchrisev]

You’ve come a long way since your accident! You even become an SCI ambassador. You commented here on your friends not coming by as often: it’s weird but I get it. We aren’t hanging out like we had been and I don’t think either of us knows what to do :) I have some new friends and some former ones. It kinda works out. T8 just past the first year

[@masonx54]

I agree. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@donnagordon4151]

Man you're strong, God saved you give your heart to him if you've not done so already. A real self starter. Blessings

[@masonx54]

Yes, I got baptized five years to the date of my injury. Here is my testimony: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnXUcp1teNKKp5Y Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@angelmarshall2735]

Thank god You are still here you are so lucky to be here alive to this day

[@masonx54]

Amen! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@robertgraham5619]

Thanks for sharing your story. How great to have youtube as a vehicle to help others in similar situations become as independent as possible. I worked in the MRDD (mental retardation/developmental disabilities) with adults in independent living skills programs. I've worked with all kind of bodies with all kinds of "limitations" and/or abilities. I love the "strengths model" where you look at what a person can do and build on that filling in gaps where they can't do yet or maybe never will. Focusing on what you can do is just a positive approach to help someone feel good about themselves, to see what they are able to do. We never know when the road might crave to the right just over the top of the hill! It's great having all the stories there are learning from each. It could have been and could in the future be me. How would I like to be treated? It feels great being able to help someone unable to take care of all their needs thinking it could be me. Makes me feel valuable. Hope everyone helping you are happy/grateful to fill in the gaps where you need them, and hope you are finding more and more ways, more tools to help you do more and more on your own. There are a lot of tools available for all kinds of bodies/situations! Who knows what's coming around the corner next!

[@masonx54]

I agree! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@Murrrrrrp]

Wow, what an incredible story. I’m so glad that you and your friend both made it out ok. And what an incredible support system you have! 💙

[@masonx54]

I am thankful as well, and my support system after my injury was great. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@IeshaK0224]

Thank You So Much for this video My uncle was recent paralyzed due to him being robbed at gun point This video give me hope and great understand on his healing process

[@christslove8121]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/npK9Y4mYad6BgMk

[@christslove8121]

I just sent you a link for a Christian healing prayer video, maybe it will help your uncle, I get healed when I play these videos. Play it by his side if needed.

[@Bettinasisrg]

I had a friend in high school a lot like you in the early 1980s. He was honor student and athlete and this is when 3 wheelers were just coming out. He flipped it over a hill and become a quadriplegic. Also lost 3 good friends in drunk driving accidents. I'm glad you're doing so well now! Your story needs telling and I appreciate you're brave enough to do it, thank you.

[@masonx54]

Yeah, those Honda three-wheelers were infamous for flipping. Haha I'm sorry to hear that. I appreciate your compliments. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@ClearwaterKB]

As a fellow Hoosier, we did the same driving around even in Indy. Eskanazi/Wishard is the #1 Level 1 trauma center in Central Indiana. Glad you got there instead of Evansville.

[@masonx54]

Yeah, driving around must be the only thing to do in Indiana. Haha I was going to say I had a good experience at Eskenazi, but I didn't considering my circumstances... But, they are top-notch. Thank you for watching and commenting;

[@alicedaley851]

Your testimony is very much appreciated 🙏 GOD KEEP YOU STRONG.

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@londongal3732]

You are so articulate! And such an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@masonx54]

Wow, I really appreciate that compliment! I pride myself on being able to explain things in a manner that is easy to understand. I just reached 10,000 subscribers on KZbin today, so maybe you were number 10,000. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@pinkfinger66]

Hello. My name is Richard. I am sorry that you and your friend had the accident that has had such life changing consequences. You do seem to have adapted well and making the videos, I'm sure has been an encouragement to others. We have something in common, we are both Hoosiers. I can also relate to paralysis, I am a paraplegic. In July of 1989, I was coming home from work in my 1967 Mustang coupe (really liked that car), when it began to hydroplane due to wet weather. It had been pouring rain before I started driving, but was down to just a drizzle when I took out. Unfortunately, I went through a dip in the highway where some standing water had failed to drain away, got too much water in the wheel-wells and could not bring the car to a stop before it slammed into the ditch. I estimate that I was going thirty or so miles an hour on impact, but the sudden stop and forward momentum was more than my back could endure. This older car did not have shoulder restraints, but lap restraint only. I self-blamed for operating a car which was not up to simple shoulder restraint standards of today. I think shoulder restraints became the standard soon after that year (1967) in cars. I fractured T4 and T5, injured, but did not severe the cord. I spent three months in Methodist Hospital of Indianapolis where they also stressed physical and occupational therapy as well as did a surgery on my spine. I was twenty-three years old when this happened and just turned fifty-seven one month ago from today. I came home depressed and wanted to become a recluse for a while. As you mentioned, it is an adjustment coming home from the hospital. I found it depressing. I had a lot of people praying for me and I know that God has helped me along the way. Within a year after my injury, I was blessed to meet the girl who has now been my wife for thirty years. Life goes on. It wasn't over, but no one ever said it would be easy. I could say more, but don't mean to write a book here, ha ha. Best wishes for you sir.

[@masonx54]

I appreciate you sharing your story! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@pinkfinger66]

@@masonx54 You're welcome.

[@chavale2]

yep I had a Fiat 124 with no shoulder restraints huhuhhh; just basic laps restraint on navel level mate BJ AUSTRALIA BJCASHZEN$$$BIGG

[@kimroe573]

Mason Jesus was definitely with you I remember my sons accident He's a C6 c7 c8 like you he was on a vent the doctors told me he'd never breath on his own by Gods grace hes breathing on his own thank you for these videos God bless you and your parents

[@masonx54]

Praise God! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@endtimeawakening5557]

You're in my prayers Kim, you and your son. This flesh is temporal but our Spirits eternal. Praise our awesome Father!!!

[@Forgotnnotforgvnn]

Damn man, I watch some videos on para's and quads like this one...but I feel like I can relate to you a lot. I was in a motorcycle accident a year ago, was initally t10 complete but officially got labeled incomplete last month and now feeling to L1 on my right side and T12 on the other. I was in ICU for about a month and a half and I shouldn't have left ICU with how badly my body got destroyed but I did. I don't remember my accident either, just waking up on the side of the road wondering why I can't move my legs, then I basically lost consciousness shortly after getting to the hospital. I was drifting in and out on the medivac there and I remember getting into a room with all these people screaming stuff then I fell asleep. Supposedly I was communicating to people when I was in ICU but I don't remember any of it except for at the end. Woke up a month and a half later and found out I suffered a lesion in my spinal cord (and a lot of other things but thats the main one). Wasn't told I'll never walk but was basically told that if I do get anything back, it'll never be the same. Over the past year I learned how completely fucked up insurance companies are, how people in this situation literally just have to figure it out on their own whether it's a medical thing or learning how to live, and this nations healthcare system is borderline evil...only exception are the ones who are bed side with you or those therapists that work with you and help/show you how to get better. Glad you made it though homie, and I hope you continue to kick some ass. Feels pretty good to truly cheat death once huh?

[@masonx54]

Hey, Ben! I appreciate you sharing some of your story! Yeah, I was sent home not knowing anything. So, I have learned pretty much everything on my own. This is why I started my KZbin channel. Are you able to do bodily functions yourself, or do you have to do bladder and bowel programs? Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@Forgotnnotforgvnn]

@@masonx54 I'm getting a lot of return around those areas but still mostly numb. Still cathing and my bowel program is every other day, usually do it at night since it's more convenient but thankfully with the return I'm getting back I'm pretty much fully independent. Don't need family members to help out much at all anymore. Physician initially said in the beginning I'll get bladder and sexual function back and wasn't sure about bowel but when I had the annual check up he used physician lingo to side step that question and said keep doing exercises since research supports that's how you'll get partial return. I understand the complexity of the injury but it's always so frustrating never really getting an answer and always feeling like you're some crazy anomaly.

[@josebaez7116]

Amazing story. Turning a dark episode into a channel to help others.

[@masonx54]

Yep, that's what I'm trying to do! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@jcastillo8805]

My father has been a quadriplegic since I was 3years old. He resembles your disabilities. Currently I am 41 years old. He has been disabled for 38 years of my life. My Gram was born in 1939. She took care of my dad through most of his life. I am now the person to take care of all of his needs. My dad's injury is a complete sever of the C-6. My father has taught me to be a female mechanic, I was a power plant operator, and now I'm a refinery operator. My dad survives by loving his grandchildren.

[@masonx54]

That's great that he has people that care about him. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@traceypuerner7876]

I wasn't born with like this. I wasn't informedn without using a wheelchait's been i've spent two years and still having trouble

[@masonx54]

What kind of trouble are you having?

[@olir6910]

I'm glad your alive go share your story 🙏🏻

[@masonx54]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@MeL-MayLing-Love-LE]

You hit home with so many things for me I have very similar experiences I'm not so sure of my own survival I'm so over whelmd with basic survival of every day life medicine dressing catheters bottom dryness cleansing and moving to avoid bedsors with minimal and reluctance of help with ridicule and demeaning my self worth and quality of life has all but diminished may my legacy of joy and happiness live on past my temporary body love to all survivers, warriors, loving, peacful, and, kind people. ❤️ Respectfully L.E.

[@stephaniemartinez1951]

Mason, your amazing!!!! You've got me now as a subscriber 💜 really glad I found you!!!!

[@masonx54]

Thank you for subscribing!

[@elisejolie8414]

I am so glad you and your friend are alive! Thank you for sharing and I hope you stay healthy and happy! ❤️

[@masonx54]

I am glad we are alive as well! Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@thechariotvii9259]

I was hurt 13 years ago today! Cheers. Wild story. Its hard being tall & paralyzed!

[@masonx54]

Happy anniversary! It has its pros and cons for sure. Haha!

[@christslove8121]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/npK9Y4mYad6BgMk

[@christslove8121]

I just sent you a Christian healing prayer video, maybe it will help you, I get healed when I play these videos. Play them when ever you need to. People say the spine can't heal but God can fix anything.

[@endtimeawakening5557]

I'll agree with you THE CHARIOT VII, I'm 6'-2" which was great when I could walk but it goes just the opposite when those limbs are dead. It really works against you. I can fully sympathize! Take care, God bless!

[@markrepola7444]

Your an amazingly strong individual, keep fighting the good fight.

[@masonx54]

I appreciate that! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@cindypayton5286]

Mason, I'm an instructor in allied health and I love your videos and how you've figured out all the smallest issues for each activity that are often overlooked as obstacles. I'm showing your videos to my class this week and next. Wondering if its possible to speak to you by phone, email or face to face this week?

[@masonx54]

Awesome! Send me a message on social media (links are in the description).

[@thatvampirelorraine]

I am so hungree

[@KhaiMusic]

I love that you were inspired to help others through your channel so that people with a spinal cord injury wouldn’t have to struggle with finding relevant information like you did. I find your resilience, enthusiasm and positivity very inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@masonx54]

Thank you very much for watching and commenting with compliments!

[@KhaiMusic]

Hi Mason, I’ve sent you a message on Instagram asking some questions to do with nursing care. Is that the best platform for us to communicate or is email better?

[@masonx54]

Yes, I received your message and read it earlier today. I haven't gotten the chance to respond but could you email me with he same message? I'll get to it. Thanks!

[@KhaiMusic]

@@masonx54 I have sent you an email. Thank you again. I’m very grateful for your help!

[@lynnsimoneau535]

In the cover ad for this vlog, I could’ve sworn I saw you in a manual chair-I thought, “awesome!! Good for him!!! I’ll bet a feels a lot freer and confined than in the power chair he used!” I hope that some day soon, you’ll “take the plunge” and begin using a manual chair! Anyway, just found it interesting that I was also injured at C6-7 in the month of January and I, too, was just starting the second half of my senior year in high school (I was not on the academic honor path), but that was back in ‘93!! I also live in a small town, much like you!! I really hope that you and your family found that in the year, sometimes two, that you do regain a bit of function!! Almost one level of function! I went on to college and graduate, and was on the Dean’s List during my last two years. I have a Bachelors Of Science in Finance and was very able to work full-time, even with my complete injury as an Analyst!! The company I worked for were very accommodating to my limitations. For instance, since I couldn’t pick up a phone without difficulty when a client called in, the company gave me an ear piece to use! And even thought I could use a computer mouse relatively well, once I flipped it upside down, I was given aa trackball!! (Much easier!) And they also made accommodations for my typing also!! I worked for quite a while and totally loved it!!! That is, until I got Lyme Disease that nobody diagnosed for years and Chronic Lyme Disease left me with deficits that make working impossible! Stay safe, Ellis!!

[@masonx54]

Yes, the thumbnail for this video has a picture of me in my TiLite Aero T manual wheelchair. However, I still use my power wheelchair most of the time. It seems like I would feel more free using a manual wheelchair but the truth is that I actually feel more disabled using a manual wheelchair. This is because I am able to do so many more things independently in my power wheelchair. Here is a video of mine explaining why I am "always" in my power wheelchair that goes more in depth: kzbin.info/www/bejne/moXMXqimjdJrjq8 Wow, that's weird! Haha! Yes, I have regained more function and believe I function more like a complete C7 now. Thanks for sharing some of your story! I am currently working full-time and my employer is also very accommodating for me. They got me a headset to answer the phone as well!

[@kathymorris4553]

I’m so glad you survived young man

[@masonx54]

I am too! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@kathymorris4553]

@@masonx54 Your a sweetheart ♥️

[@elizabethpeterson1644]

I have been in a car accident on March 7,2012 with another car. The impact from the other car that broke my left ankle. My car did rolled over. I was wearing my seat belt. I was still in it till the first responders came. They were so gentle with my left ankle. I was really strapped in when I was in the back of the 🚑. I really felt the pain from my ankle just after the ER doctor touch it. Even touching my toes and even wiggles my toes a tiny bit. I had surgery on my left ankle the following afternoon. I still didn’t eat anything before surgery. I was in the room in the hospital after a couple days. I was in a wheelchair for a little bit over 2 months. At that time that I couldn’t put any weight on that ankle. I even had PT till the end of August that year. I was using a walker a little bit in my father’s bedroom. He was sleeping in the other bedroom and slept on a sofa bed. I had a splint cast for 2 weeks. I gotten a fiberglass cast on for 4 weeks. My mother had a friend that wanted to visit me at their house with her grandchildren. I don’t mind the company of people. I only had 3 people that saw me just after my car accident. I even saw my grandmother during Easter that year. She wanted me to drive her home. I didn’t drive her because my mother did. I can drive a car. I used my right ankle on the gas or brake. At that time that I did need help to get out and walk. I got a newer car in late June that same year. I gotten a 2011 Mercury Milan in silver grey. I did wanted a different car but, I did ended up with it because it had lower miles on it. The Ford Fusions that the dealership had had over 39,000 miles on. I liked to have a car less mileage. I rather had it under 30,000 miles on it. The Milan had a little bit over 11,000 on it when I test drove it. It took me awhile to get used to the sized of the vehicle. I don’t have it anymore. It got totaled just after hitting a deer the 2nd time in 2016.Now that I drive a different vehicle. My vehicle is a 2020 Ford Escape SE in black. I had a vehicle before it and it died on me.

[@imveryhungry112]

Your a strong guy brother. Mentally a warrior.

[@masonx54]

I appreciate that! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@imveryhungry112]

@@masonx54 yeah man i got a pretty bad spine injury i dont have paralysis yet but my doctors keep saying that eventually im going to start to lose function of my arms and hands. they want me to undergo some spine operation that will hopefully prevent this maybe. I am scared man I wish I had your emotional strength but it is what it is.

[@masonx54]

It would be difficult to get my emotional/mental strength until after it happens I think, and then you can accept it. However, I will say that finding God after my injury at my lowest point has brought me peace with my circumstances.

[@imveryhungry112]

@@masonx54 Thank you brother. I am slowly turning to God. And I will admit, the more I creep towards him the more peace I feel. Thank you Sir.

[@masonx54]

Watch this video of mine that might hell you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIWxioivrbuUjrc

[@daltonvoss7693]

You are A good dude. Respect to your Daily grind. Im Hope nothing but the best 4 u.

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@edwardhagan3157]

You tell your story brilliantly. You have great spirit.

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@edwardhagan3157]

@@masonx54 Any time. I wish you well in your life.

[@madeleineisabel1287]

Hello Mason!

[@masonx54]

I appreciate you listening and being interested! I'm an honest person, and would be glad to share other stories with you. Just message me on social media (links are in the descriptions of my videos). Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@madeleineisabel1287]

I’d love hearing more stories. It’s so nice hearing just how honest you tell a story. Feels so uncommon these days. I’m so old school I just have KZbin email and a phone number. Any story encountering with the Lord, any story changing your perspective about something or knowing something to be true that you didn’t known before, understanding something for the first time, any story like that would be awesome! Love M

[@masonx54]

Send me an email. [e-mail]

[@charlottetaylor4471]

You're a survivor for sure! Keep going, perspective is everything x

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@charlottetaylor4471]

@@masonx54 new subscriber too 🙂

[@masonx54]

Awesome, thank you for subscribing!

[@tina8796]

My heavens. What a harrowing tale. I'm so sorry this happened to you. My uncle had polio and he had an operation and it left him paralyzed. He was in a wheelchair for many years. He was a paraplegic. He would get pressure sores a lot and UTI's

[@masonx54]

Yeah, pressure sores and UTIs are very common for people who are paralyzed. I get UTIs but luckily, I have not had a pressure sore. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@tina8796]

@@masonx54 ✝✝

[@Dovietail]

Oh my goodness, I would have been more worried about your head injury than your spine. My brother is a traumatic brain injury survivor, and it has been such a journey! It was decades ago, and he will be dependent all of his life.

[@masonx54]

Early on, I really noticed the effects of my traumatic brain injury with short-term memory loss and not being able to think. It has gotten better, and I graduated college earlier this year with a bachelor's degree in information technology with highest honors (Summa Cum Laude).

[@russy59ry]

Glad God is merciful to let you live to inspire others with your testimony! Keep up the good work

[@masonx54]

Amen! 🙌🏼 Thanks!

[@reeserockefellersr3388]

We begin in a hospital. I was born and I was very tiny. I was born pretty mature and I end up on the vent to wait and everything went fine until when I got older my vision to change and they have to do all the Appalachian on my iPad and that’s how become blind I couldn’t see anything the first time I remember before I was born because I would knocking into Was and my mom knew that something was not white with my vision and the doctor told my mom that I was blind and I would never be able to see again😢😢😢😢😢😢😢 but my heart goes on my shoulders for her and my heart goes to you both for all your love and support and support and love for her family is truly a special place to share this amazing 🤩 I love you both and hope to hear you again soon and I hope you have a wonderful day though I am blind now I can’t see anything and the type in it from the microphone. I am using voice on my iPad. It’s another way that people who are blind or visually and can navigate my iPad and yeah and don’t worry we put the border talking I hope makes sense15 a little easier and you get the same amount more than I would if we did the whole time I think I can do it but I don’t know how to do it I don’t know what I just want you know how much you can get done and I don’t know what you want me to do but I know you know what I know I know I don’t want to do it but I know I have to have you and you can get the right to know that you don’t want me I just know you have to get a lot of things

[@johndough-g3m]

Amazing story. what is incredible is there is a story by a girl also with similar injury that the road looked EXACTLY like this and EXACTLY the same thing happened to her. She was driving with girlfriends, up the hill and then all the sudden the road split to go right and was continuation of paved road, and the road she was on went straight and turned to gravel. she lost control as well from the transition at 60 mph and she wrecked. flipped me out seeing your photos of the road as it looked EXACTLY like hers.

[@masonx54]

Wow, do you know when that happened? What injuries did she sustain? Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@jennifersinclair7249]

What a horrifying experience.

[@gna8an]

All the best! Let’s pray for each other!!

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@deecox7286]

Bless you! Roman's 8:28-39

[@masonx54]

Amen! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@antoniodias8088]

You are very lucky to be alive. And you seem like a really cool dude actually. Strong dude.

[@ernestleboto5859]

What I have realised is that most of people who got injured to a point of spinal cord injury was meant to happen, I was in a small van(Opel corsa) accident with my son and his mum I was the only person who had the seatbelt on and the only one who got injured, my son and his mum walked out without a scratch on them. I'm also C6/C7 spinal cord injury the roof of the car crashed on me as the car rolled and the safety belt hold me from moving anywhere .I was in hospital for four month. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@masonx54]

Wow, thank you for sharing!

[@aussietrekker]

hi mason from country australia and thanks for sharing your story.

[@masonx54]

Australia? Awesome! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@Taraysolomon23]

I could listen to you talk all day! Amazing comeback story though!!!! I am thankful you are still alive. Hi from South Dakota!!! :)

[@masonx54]

Thanks! I appreciate you watching and commenting!

[@nancyklassen1480]

My husband just got paralyzed last year it's been very hard on all of us.🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@masonx54]

The first couple of years are the hardest.

[@zwan1820]

Hi, my husband too was paralyzed due to a fall at work we have 4 kids 2 are little, it’s been so hard we are all being afected 💔 I wll pray for you🌹

[@nancyklassen1480]

Oh I'm sorry for you we have two little ones too nine and five now but all together we have nine children it's very hard on him and everybody but we're getting by one day at a time. We will pray for you too

[@christslove8121]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/npK9Y4mYad6BgMk

[@tameikabrown]

What Happened To UR Husband Nancy That Caused Him To Be Paralyzed From A Year Ago

[@spike16965]

How scary. Glad to see you lived

[@masonx54]

Me too!

[@shirleehughes8125]

Glad you are with your family 👪

[@Jess-tj7ve]

Hi Mason just checking on you your an inspiration to so many people

[@masonx54]

I'm doing well, and I appreciate that! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@Jess-tj7ve]

@@masonx54 sorry I meant to respond sooner lol trying to learn about investing got side track . I like watching your videos when I am having a rough day I am reminded to be strong and Courageous like the Bible !

[@masonx54]

@@Jess-tj7ve Amen! I'm glad that my videos help you during difficult times.

[@sherylstory7809]

Bless you and your strength 🙏

[@masonx54]

I appreciate that! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@sarahbethsstitching9937]

Rhi is an amazing hospital. I have a rare disease called recurrent transverse myelitis. I had two seperate stays there and I had incomplete quadriplegic and they took such good care of me. I now can walk. My autonomic system is really messed up which I know you understand all of that too. I’m so glad you are ok. God is so good.

[@masonx54]

Yeah, RHI's therapy program was great. Yeah, I know about the autonomic nervous system being messed up. Haha Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@sarahbethsstitching9937]

@@masonx54 I was glad to watch your story and I love how positively you live your life. Shortly before I was diagnosed with my disease I was a home health nurse and I took care of a guy who had gotten polio. I lived in Indiana at the time and getting to know him truly taught me A lot about how we can embrace the tools available like wheelchairs and walkers and such to give us the best life possible. I decided if anything ever happened to me I would use whatever assistive devices available to have the most independent and fulfilling life ever. And that has helped me So much. I will continue to Watch your channel and I wish you the best in everything. Were you able to graduate and did you ever decided to Look into college.

[@masonx54]

Yes, I graduated with academic honors with my class in highschool, and I graduated college with a bachelor's degree in information technology. Here is my graduation video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3O9m2uuh9ihZ80 Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@endtimeawakening5557]

You're an amazing young man Mason! Father is using you mightily! I'm looking forward to the day that I break free from this broken temporal flesh and soar in the Spirit! Bless you brother!!! ❤🙏❤

[@masonx54]

Amen!

[@OscarPerezPousada-sn2do]

Thank you for sharing your story

[@masonx54]

You're welcome! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@PhD4me]

Such a miraculous recovery. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@masonx54]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@romdaxmm8988]

I was in a high speed crash rolled a few times and broke my c5 c6 and l1 in March glad I can make a full recovery and didn't die that night because it could have been so much worse, they said the only thing that saved me was a seat belt

[@masonx54]

Did it result in paralysis?

[@Jaggerbush]

96 feet?!?! Youre lucky to be alive. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@masonx54]

Yes, I am very lucky to be alive and thank God for saving me. 96 feet is the measurement of where I stopped and where my vehicle stopped rolling, so I probably got ejected farther than that. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@morgancalvi6675]

I don't remember anything of my accident either. They told me I was at a friend's house (he is in a wheelchair) messing around in his chair going up a steep hill in his yard and I suffered whiplash. I have a C4 incomplete injury (although for some reason my C5 and C6 started fusing on their own) and was able to walk afterward, but after a really bad bone infection got into my spine, I am now in a wheelchair. To this day i have a weak neck. I was 22 when it happened and I am 59 now. I also had use of my hands then (well kind of and now, after the bone infection, I don't) What is a real bummer is I was a piano player...not the best...but I loved it. Doctors explained I don't remember because when the spinal cord injury occurred, my nerve messages going to my brain were interrupted and that this happens to everyone, so i am confused as to why spinal cord injury people do remember what happened.... Mason, many of these accident cases are reunited with staff from the hospital because of these youtube videos, so if there is a nurse or doctor or something that sees this and they took pictures in the OR (many drs do), you may be able to see what you looked like at your worse. Yeah I was in the hospital a total of 6 months and rehab, maybe another 6 months. Great video...thank you. You will be fine 🙂. We are all rooting for you.

[@masonx54]

Thanks for sharing your story! That's the first time that I've heard that about the nerve messages going to the brain being interrupted but it makes sense to me.

[@morgancalvi6675]

UPDATE: As of December 11, 2021, C5 and C6 are completely fused and I now have a second spinal cord injury after a bone infection got into my spine. The first one apparently was still there 38 years later (imagine???...I thought it was a mild injury as far as a broken neck goes because I simply dislocated the vertebrate, chipped the bottom corner and the spinal cord was thin unprotected, and I must have landed on a rock...but I guess not). Anyway, there wasn't a lot of room for inflammaton and swelling of the bone infection being in the spine...and a tightening and stretching of the spinal cord resulted (almost like a tethered cord). I have always done dig stim since..and now with hetero ossification...not able to bend and can't get my a-hole of a doctor to understand how my daily life activities are so adversely affected.

[@glenwest1911]

I have heterotrophic ossification and my left arm is flaccid (limp), but no spinal cord injury. From a car accident two years ago.

[@traceypuerner7876]

How do you go to the bathroom one and two do you have a cathedral

[@masonx54]

Yes, I use an intermittent catheter. Here is my video of me catheterizing: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHa3ommKpcmVldE Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@traceypuerner7876]

Thank you for answering my questions.