Hey guys, long time no see! I haven't been around the forum much for a while because I've been busy with other projects but I thought I would drop by and share some videos.

Short story: I was paralyzed from the chest down in 2009 and have since had to slowly learn how to live with only the use of my arms and shoulders. It has been less than 2 years but I feel like I've made a ton of progress. It sounds cliche but a good attitude and an open mind make all the difference in the world for someone in my shoes.

I got an HD camera a few weeks back and have started making videos of how I do things in my daily routine. My goal is to hopefully help others in my same condition get back as much independence as possible. Everything I've learned has been trial and error...so hopefully others won't have to deal with as much error as I did.

So one of the first places I wanted to start was how I drive my G35 and how I get in and out. I can't tell you how many dirty looks I get when I whip into a handicapped parking space in the G...and then they see me dump out a wheelchair. haha Check it out!

http://youtu.be/L3x9Zfe2MP4

http://youtu.be/iJ8shk40dnI

 

Nice videos! and when you talked about manual mode I was like how the heck is he going to do that, its going to be weird, but that switch is awesome! How much was that module?

There is a member in our club down here he also is in a wheelchair he has a bar right under the steering wheel push for gas pull for brake.

 

Watched both vids, glad I did!

I have to say, your a very determined individual. Sadly I don't think I put that much effort into my daily life.. I suppose you don't realize what you have until it's gone.

Much respect.

 

Awesome.

 

Very nice, thanks for sharing those.

 

Awesome! I remember another member posting his setup awhile ago, not sure if it was you as well? But I really like your setup, I would love to give that hand throttle control a whirl haha

 

Its been a while Brian...I am glad that you are back on the forums and look forward to seeing you out at some meets! text me sometime!

and btw, great vids! I was amazed the first time I saw you do this in person. You are an inspiration to all of us!

 

That's awesome how convenient the G coupe is! My buddy/old roommate had a T1 injury as well. He had an old van that has since died on him, but I bet he would love to have a G!! Knowing how hard it was for him to transfer into some cars, the G looks like a breeze.

 

Cool. I def agree with push for brake.

 

much much much respect man!

vids were awesome, and especially the "mods" as in the custom switch.

definitely an inspiration

 

wow man very inspirational and keep up the good work and positive attitude !!!

 

Don't be such a stranger B. Your determination to not let your accident keep you down is admirable. Much respect my friend...............

 

I've seen both videos and just watched in awe at your optimism, determination and overall good-natured approach, thinking of how best to give you kudos for all of it.

But, after a long time just staring at this reply box, i could not come up with anything good enough to describe all of it.

So, for the lack of a better comment, you sir are an inspiration. You have my utmost respect and admiration.

 

Thanks...yea, I wanted to do paddle shifters at first but with my right hand on the throttle/brake all the time, it wouldn't have worked well. I called up Works Bell out in Cali and told them I had their kit and shorted out the wiring by accident...so they shipped me a "new one" from Japan. It was about $65. Not bad at all!

Yea, most paraplegics/quadriplegics have that hand control but I think its less user friendly and with it under the wheel, you loose the tilt function of the steering wheel...not to mention they usually have to cut out a large section of plastic under the wheel to hook up the linkage to the pedals. Mine is off to the side so that's not an issue.

Very true...I never knew how much I took for granted until this happened. At this point, I just have to grin and bear it. B*tching about it every day won't get me anywhere but depressed.

Yep, I will be back around.

Yea, it's much easier to get in and out of than most other cars. I learned that by default after buying it. The doors open wider than other coupes and that's key.

Thanks buddy...no magical comment required. I'm glad I'm an "inspiration" to people but that's not why I try to do stuff like this. I'm good at figuring things out and if I can help someone like me see an easier way, awesome.

I just learned how to swim again and get in and out of the pool. Hard as hell at first and I sank like a stone...but just like anything, it's takes practice...and a TON of patience!

 

Great videos, thanks for sharing them