Losing the use of your right hand . . .

With hindsight, probably the last thing you should do if your hand goes through a pane of glass, is pull it back out at speed.

This is about what happens if you do.

Physical Symptoms

This is a summary of how the physical side of things developed from the time of the accident to present day.

The most surprising thing at the time was the total lack of pain.

I assure you; things changed.

Good Days and Bad Days . . . but why?

In the early days the horrific image of the accident was about all that occupied my thoughts.

It just kept popping up, time after time, seemingly ensuring I remained aware that things are going to be quite a bit different from now on, (as if I hadn't noticed!).

Once the image had served that purpose, it really started to get in the way.

Psychological Impact

Never having experience trauma before I wasn't aware what to expect. The accident itself happened so quickly I just remember looking at the underside of my wrist and thinking:

"That hand is completely and utterly ruined."

Not, (if I'm honest) the exact words; but they matched the sentiment.

Remote Controlled Depression.

This is how I used a technique that you're already very good at, to avoid myself slipping into depression. If you'd like to try it; you'll need to lounge around on your sofa with absolutely no distractions.

Other than your TV and remote control.

Guitar Technique

I used to play guitar in a functions/covers band and a day or so before the accident we'd had possibly our best gig for a Masonic dinner in Leeds, 150 very happy punters singing our praises.

We had around 5 hours of material ranging from Gary Moore to Glenn Miller. Then everything  changed.

As you might expect, any thoughts of being able to play again were not even entertained. I had to accept that the memories would have to suffice.


Or so I thought . . .

Gory Bits, you have been warned!