United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I just passed the two year mark of my accident which happened on May 24, 2008. My left arm was completely paralyzed with the exception of some hand movement. I fractured the c5 & c6 of my spinal cord. 6 months after the accident I had a nerve transfer done at Wake Forest University by Dr. Li. The progress was slow at first and I was getting used to life with one arm, then in August I was in a pool and noticed that in water I could move my arm. That was the beginning. I got in therapy weekly and began to exercise it frequently and daily. Today, I am far from where I used to be, but I have use of my left arm. My shoulder still barely responds, but all and all I do well. I wished I could report that I do not experience pain, BUT if I forget to take my....It Gabepentin, it can be pretty painful. I continue to see Dr. Li every 6 months and if my shoulder doesn't come back stronger in our next appointment, we will be discussing further options. If you are new to this injury, please understand that life does get better! I am able to function in my job and do everything I need to do. I would love to have my arm fully back again, yet realize that will never happen. I also realize that I improve little by little and adjust acceptance a little bit more every day. Don't give up....It does get better!

Sorry it has been a while since I posted.

Glad to read the update and I second it does get better!