New Life After Spinal Cord Injury

Pieta Bouma was at the end of a six-month stint volunteering in Ecuador when her family came to visit the village she’d been living in. An accident on one of their first days left Pieta paralysed from her belly button down, and unable to return home to New Zealand for months. Two years on, she’s partway through a university degree, living in a flat with her friends, and seizing every new sporting opportunity that comes her way. / attitudepictures

[@AussieAmy]

I love the way that Pieta explains how it’s like her body is talking a different language.. I’ve never thought of it like that! What an inspiring young woman with beautiful and supportive family and friends.

[@annikenlittle9644]

Like Being Treated Like A Baby?

[@EmmyWheelieBops]

@@annikenlittle9644I’m paraplegic too. Obviously you can do things we can’t and need help, but being helped is not being treated like a baby.

[@skyeyoung8714]

She is very lucky to have family and friend support which makes it easier to face life challenges.

[@juliaevans9521]

I thought your comment about people asking you about the most traumatic thing that's happened in your life ..... before asking how you are, was really thought provoking.

[@violettaplatar8341]

Sometimes I reach the conclusion that self-preservation instinct is dangerously impaired in the case of the young, and the adults just assume that if something appears to them as dangerous, everybody will realize the danger in it. This girl story should be heard and to be learned from it. Wish her the best luck.

[@margepaz]

I agree. Most accidents seem to stem from impulsive unwise actions.

[@EmmyWheelieBops]

Bravo Pieta! 💪 I’ve been paralysed from the chest down for five years. It is like restarting your life. Support system is everything! ❤️

[@talhairshad7129]

Being an SCI patient myself I find a lot of inspiration and courage when I see people thriving in their lives despite their disability and fighting the hardest battles of a human being ever has to fight. God bless you people you bring hope into many peoples lives.

[@stormy439]

YOU are an AMAZING, BEAUTIFUL, & INSPIRATIONAL woman! 👍😃 Your FRIENDS are THE BEST!

[@martyblair5314]

Pieta, you have amazing strong care team.

[@Beesechurgerd]

I didn't expect to cry today. I'm in the same exact wheelchair as you, sending love 💜

[@CortreeTV]

what an amazing story, those sisters are resilient and the definition of true love that only a sibling can provide.

[@jessicak4913]

What a beautiful blessing she is from god nothing can stop her and I love that what a strong woman she is ❤❤❤ chase your dreams babygirl

[@paralifetv-youreverydaywhe8314]

This is awesome. I love seeing these types of success stories. Truly inspirational. Thank you!

[@michaelstgeorge2185]

I feel the same as Pieta on most things after my T5 SCI. Your support team is amazing! Even one great support person can make a huge difference. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

[@EmmyWheelieBops]

I’m T5 complete too. Absolutely right on having support, it’s the most important factor ❤

[@fisharefriends598]

What an amazing lady, she was positive from day 1. She still thinks about others

[@DJRickValeOfficial]

She is so Brave! I hope she can walk again someday

[@anastasiakorkova9175]

I feel lucky that I was paralyzed as a 5 year old, before I ever had any independence or experienced life. I didn’t have to relearn anything or adjust to a new life because I basically don’t remember that I was as able walk at one point. It would be weird, like really weird to stand up out of bed and not get in my chair. When ur that young you don’t think about it, it’s like “oh ok, I get around with this chair now”

[@red2775]

Yes the earlier the faster it becomes normal

[@anastasiakorkova9175]

@@red2775 Yes for sure, I didnt have to rebuild my life, or lose my identity, because when I entered early adulthood, and started figuring out who I was, I was already a paraplegic.

[@anastasiakorkova9175]

@@red2775 And I am positive that this young woman will move on and have a wonderful life, she will not even think twice about not being able to walk. I hardly even think about it.

[@smitajky]

This is frightening. I fell out of a tree and broke my back. A vertebra shattered and a piece was pushed into the spinal area. Luckily it didn't damage the nerve and I am recovering but things like this show just how life could have been very different in just a split second.

[@Swuirrell4days]

hey it's not frightening it's something that can happen to anyone. let's not normalize this being okay but it's not the end of the world for someone they can still live their lives in anyway theychoose

[@tiagoT_]

perfect example of tenacity and courage

[@Thomas_Shelby0707]

You are a Beautiful Soul ❤, prayers for you , stay strong girl. being a patient of spinal cord injury i can feel your pain .

[@charliehobson33]

This is a fantastic channel, thank you for these, it increases my understanding

[@JenniferSlater1178]

I've been watching this all day. It's truly beautiful and inspirational my life seems pathetic and I can walk. Cheers

[@HilaryIsOkayssss]

What a lovely family and friends she has. What a blessing as well.

[@melzlayre9972]

I too am a wheelchair user and I aspire to become active again.

[@Nyotakikora1]

Go for it!!! You can. Amazing things will happen when you try

[@alexanderdavies9774]

You can do it! I'm a newly injured C5 quadriplegic. We're in this together, don't give up!

[@pinkmonkeybird2644]

Okay as a high level paraplegic (T7) for 40 years, I can assure you can be as active as you want. It’s not necessarily going to be easy or simple, but it’s just a different way of living. I was young when I became a para, so it was almost easier because I had to plan my adult life in a wheelchair. I was also lucky in that I’m academically talented, so finding a professional career was relatively easy for me. I went to public school (I’m American), got a scholarship to a prestigious university, got advanced degrees and found a career as a scientist. I got married to my college sweetheart, traveled the world both professionally and as a simple tourist. I love my full time, demanding career, gave birth twins, bought a house, and have been a competitive equestrian and handcycler, have a big garden that I’m kind of successful with, even though honestly, it would be cheaper and easier just to buy my tomatoes and carrots from the store. I drove a sports car in my early 30s before I had my children, and I’m a pretty normal mom in carpool, parent-teacher conferences, and after school activities. I only say these things to show that if I, as a totally ordinary person who is definitely no hero or inspirational, can do these things independently and have a great life, that absolutely anyone can as long as they put the effort into them. At the same time, don’t set totally unrealistic goals or unrealistic timelines for yourself or you’ll just end up discouraged and unwilling to try again. Best wishes to you.

[@lilyem97]

We believe in you :)

[@Nyotakikora1]

@@pinkmonkeybird2644 🗣️🗣️🗣️YASSSSSSSS. UNSTOPABLE!!

[@Nyotakikora1]

I love this video, Go girl, take back control, I am a DPT who also happens to have MS, but it will not win! And I tell my patients that too. I love her attitude, as she knows that she has to fight, but it will be worth it to soar!

[@bradhouston4734]

Good on you Pieta! And family! I have a T12/L1 incomplete spinal cord injury and have been thinking of sharing my story more. Including the bladder and bowel stuff, so seeing you here sharing openly has inspired me! 😀👊🇦🇺

[@voutoo7899]

Some people are born fighter !

[@rheab5964]

Wow you are such a legend and inspiration, it is such a synchronicity that I came across this video. I broke my back march of this year, I am 24 and based in Wellington, NZ I would love to connect with you Pieta, if ever given the opportunity to connect. I was given the mercy to still be able to use my legs but a traumatic injury and experience like this changes a lot about the way my life is now viewed and perceived and just like you, it has made me more resilient. I think your story, your experience and your resilience is admirable and just amazing. Thank you for sharing your story Pieta. What a beautiful soul. I found Dr Joe Dizpenza a big anchor before and especially following my injury. A beautiful quote he has mentioned is “all the adversity in our life is to initiate us into greatness. It’s to call out something greater in us.” I think you are living proof of this regardless of whatever injury and outcome. Much love and blessings to you and your family.

[@pietabouma3584]

Message me on Facebook! Would love to connect

[@Jadenicoleluna]

Her family is amazing and so supportive of her wow !! I had a spinal fusion but close to paralyzed still healing so scary omg….inwish this family the best

[@itzeeyanbaby]

What an inspiration!

[@EmmaBGames]

There are strengths and weaknesses in all of us; it is only through teamwork that we can form a community, create a culture and carry each other through life. Pieta, you and your family, familial and chosen alike, are a beautiful example of what it truly means to help and care for each other through the hard times and the good. It is an absolute privilege to have been able to hear a part of your story and share in a joyous moment of perseverance and pride with you and yours. Love from QLD AUS.

[@endtimeawakening5557]

You're a precious young woman with a heart of gold! The young man that finds you will discover how pure that gold is. Just remember that these physical bodies are mere trmporal vessels (Temples) that house our eternal Spirits. We will leave these bodies at some point and return to the Awesome Creator/Father that made us. I was injured at age 38 back in 2001, the same year that the towers went down in NYC. I'm a T6 from a motorcycle accident 20 years ago. Keep a positive attitude Pieta and you'll go far! Take care sweetheart, God bless you!!! ❤🙏❤

[@elizabethconroy7665]

You are doing well Speeding along in your wheelchair Great strength and positivity Big Hugs Good Luck on your journey

[@uduakise8312]

You inspire me... Thanks for your video

[@survivingitall5263]

Pieta is a badass!

[@karencorban607]

Pieta you’re such a remarkable young woman with a great attitude & zest for life

[@christopherantonio3612]

Such mental fortitude. I couldn't handle it like her. That's something I want to strive towards.

[@sakaimae]

This is inspiring. Thanks for sharing

[@BrendaMartinez-ff7pb]

Esta chica es verdaderamente una inspiración. Una chica muy valiente, decidida y que no tiene miedo a las adversidades de la vida. 🙏👍🏼

[@terrinew9474]

Wow! Pieta I love your enthuiasm!! You are amazing such an inspiration!!

[@scirecoveryjourney5598]

I am also a sci patient can wlkk with afo....but u r remarkable and inspiring me more

[@fidelavila9083]

Wow baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@keithwthe1andonly]

Pieta is cute! Like the motivation too.

[@marajansen7000]

Wow she is so strong ! So proud of her :)

[@smiley78410]

I am in a wheelchair myself wish I could do some of the things. I would love to do sports. I get some people think i don't know what I am talking about but in a way could teach them about my health conditions

[@eduardopadilla5505]

Pieta excellent for what you have achieved!

[@martyblair5314]

Pieta you are so amazingly beautiful and strong.

[@David-gp3fd]

What is the name of the lift that brings your wheelchair into the trunk like that?

[@RisenPhoenix-82]

Wow Im inspired! I wish I was where you are! I still cant do much because the pain in my back stps me froom doing sports, or anything to jarring. Hope to be friends! I have no one but my husband and 2 boys I see. Lost all my friends when I lost my legs. I'm depressed but I'm. also a Fighter.

[@MrRb120]

i think it really depends on where you live... my city is not prepared at all

[@vickireynolds4055]

Stupi question time. Why can't you empty yohr cath into the commode, as opposed to the tub? Just askin', cause it seems most logical.

[@Purrrelll]

you are awesome.

[@sachingaikwad2396]

Mere bhi ankle me moment nahi bahut exercise kar raha hu ankle ki kab aayegi kya malum

[@leigh7507]

Warrior spirit

[@tmiller5380]

Amazing!!!

[@edejong]

Great to see you doing so well Pieta. You all have Dutch names. Emigrated from here?

[@DJRickValeOfficial]

15:00 Wow she also do Rock Climbing, AMAZING!

[@MarksTournaments]

extremely strong

[@pantyflash]

Like, even though your spine is hosed, you're an awesome Kiwi. You go, girl!

[@Onlinesully]

Brilliant woman

[@sarinaedwards6705]

She as a great attitude

[@keztukariri]

I mean theres nothing lucky about this but atleast her whanau was there! So much better for them and her ❤

[@keztukariri]

The technology is incredible these days, her car is gangsta!

[@suryatamang4469]

Please make a video of person with cerebral palsy

[@ObamAmerican48]

Pieta's upper body strength is impressive!

[@sophieagneray484]

Idk what it is about kiwis but they are sooo tough

[@user-nt6lw1xu8j]

You may love crockpot cooking? Sooo easy

[@MilesCobbett]

Looks like she could use a hank crank three wheeler

[@MohamedMohamed-nn1bi]

Good 👍

[@pokarpatel707]

Super video👍👍👌👍👌👌👌👍👌👌💐💐👍👍💐👍👌👌👌

[@MilesCobbett]

I was close to this same accident when I was 20. I was about 35 feet up in a fruit tree when the branch I was on broke n I dropped flat on my back. Papaya enzyme therapy helped me heal -old hawaiian remedy the old lady at my accident told me in Hana Maui Hawaii

[@LukevannonVeez-qk9mo]

Her family has money! a paraplegic with basic health insurance and an indigenous family life looks a hell of a lot different

[@summerdragonfly]

👍✌❤

[@martinpohplet9801]

I like you

[@md.hossainahammad1989]

Will you be my friend? I'm Hossain Ahammad from Bangladesh a disabled person and teacher by profession.

[@carlogrunwald8977]

HALLO

[@caerathornton]

Her mum: I come up and I can to make sure things are tidy and there's food in the fridge. Me: Yup, definitely Mum!

[@elizabethconroy7665]

Wouldn’t an electric wheelchair be easier

[@carlogrunwald8977]

HALLO wie

[@kiwismomma1365]

Can you work a restaurant like McDonald's or a cashier at Walmart or supermarket in a wheelchair I never saw anyone working those places cashiering with that normal. Science needs to help these people.... I have nobody if I'm paralyzed I'll have no help. Would be strangers who don't care really about me

[@MegglesEST1983]

What is the point of someone pushing if you wheel yourself like that 🤷‍♀️

[@thundercat007]

She made her friends push her up that mountain!! I wouldn’t be friends with her after that. Sorry, just being truthful.

[@barrylyndon80]

I also guess it's a little bit to much

[@agathaleon9826]

I think she's a courageous and strog willed individual, however...rock climbing might have a disastrous outcome if she were to fall.

[@josephswafford7578]

🇹🇰

[@Suzu-my3rj]

She shouldn’t be driving a car

[@50sRockChick]

Why not?

[@kimberlysevastyanenko3798]

There is absolutely nothing at all wrong with someone driving a car with hand controls. Why don't you research it a bit so you don't say such an ignorant thing.

[@carlogrunwald8977]

HALLO

[@carlogrunwald8977]

HALLO