Live For Today

Words of Wisdom From 

Friday's Fabulous Flyer 

Jerry Ward

Jerry was a fabulous flyer in 2012. His story is one that you don't want to miss. If you haven't read it click here: Jerry Ward, then come back and see what he's been up to. 

As a child Jerry loved airplanes more than anything, and that was just the beginning of a life that revolved around aviation. Until one day, a freak accident end the course he was flying. Jerry was paralyzed. 

"Nearly 10 years ago now, is the anniversary of my accident. That will forever be such a turning point in my life. I always get in touch with my consultant from Mexico, but sadly we've been unable to trace the lady who pulled me from the water. Probably in fear of a serious lawsuit because she may have made the damage worse, she not surprisingly disappeared as soon as the lifeguards and paramedics took over. It would be nice to be able to thank her. 

Without her help, 

I would have died in the water."

Jerry's message

 "Live For Today" 

Comes from the Heart!

Jerry has proven that anyone who is faced with a life changing event, does not have to give up on life. He has proven that paralysis does not mean your life is over, it's just going to be different. And sometimes different can be more meaningful, and with purpose. Enjoy this mini documentary, which explains how a man can go from flying fast to living strong. 

Jerry just completed the 2017 

Great Manchester Run. 

To read more about this race, 

check out: The Big Push 9

After the race, Jerry gave an after-dinner talk for the Aspire charity at the Tower of London,  20 years to the day since he left the RAF and last flew the Lancaster. 

"Aspire aims to help people to be, or to live, as independently as possible. They provided some of the equipment I used during rehab at the north-west spinal injuries centre. They have a group of independent living helpers who visit the patients, one of which told me and then guided me through the process of applying for a little help. As I had already completed my first Great Manchester Run in a wheelchair, and was planning on doing my second, it was easy to say how I could contribute to the cost of the equipment I would need when I returned home.

The setup I am using right now, nearly 10 years since my accident, and 8 years since it was set up at home for me, has remained unchanged. Testament to the fact that it works really well for me. Whilst it may not be perfect, it gives me huge independence which I value so much. Besides which, the mouse controlled mouse alone is now over £2000, so replacing on a frequent basis is not sustainable!!

As I've now fund raised for Aspire at several Great Runs, and spoken at two of their dinners, one in Manchester 2015, and the one in London a couple of months ago, it gives me a great feeling to still be able to help others.

Inspiration Can Be Found Everywhere... 

St. Elmo's Fire

While Jerry was researching music to play for the intro to a talk he said, "I managed to get in touch with a musician/songwriter. Until I started the research I had no idea that the inspiration for the song I wanted, "St Elmo's Fire" was a Canadian, Rick Hansen, with spinal injury. The lyrics fit my life story so beautifully."

"A couple of weeks ago I was invited to an 80s revival music Festival as a VIP guest of my musician/rockstar friend. Since getting in touch last year we've spoken several times on the phone, and had loads of e-mails backwards and forwards, but until then, we have never actually met face-to-face."

"I was left a blubbering heap, 

I had no idea he was going to dedicate the song to me.

The music is definitely my vintage!"

I had no idea St. Elmo's Fire was written for a spinal injury patient. I'm adding another you tube video, in that you can read the words and hear it a bit better than the live show. Inspirational and yes, and this is all about Jerry Ward. But if you're like me you will appreciate the inspirational words to keep up the fight and not give up! 

Keep Playing the Game...

Don't give up!

I Can See that New Horizon.

We Love You Jerry!

Enjoy the Journey!

XOX Karlene