A few people have been asking, so I'll share it. You can read the history of my car accident here: http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=8096.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=8096.0)
I am doing very well. As I told others, I have much to complain about, but I am still healthy and returned back to work last Monday, so I have much to be thankful for! I've been completely medically cleared (by a doctor in Seattle who has never seen me - that's another story). My managers at work are VERY worried about me returning to work and have set up "watchers" to see if I start going crazy. :wacko2:
They had to accomplish another surgery to remove 2 dead bones that didn't take, plus the back 2 lower teeth. I still have sharp bone pieces that work themselves through my gums on the inside and cut into my tongue. That's the most painful part fortunately. I'm still on a liquid diet and lost 45 pounds! That should improve my 1/4 mile times. I'm in "healing mode" for now waiting for the jawbone to heal completely before corrective surgery sometime around August.
Motorcycling limitations: I have an injury on the back of my head about 4 inches round. I have been on blood thinners for a blood clot in January, so it's not healing well and very sensitive. I tried on my helmet and it hits that spot directly. I thought about putting some tissue paper between it and the helmet, but I'm not sure. I can't wait to ride again! The weather is warming up here nicely.
I certainly appreciate the continued prayers. It's a long road. It's amazing how quickly your life can be turned upside-down.
Thanks for the update. I was wondering how you were doing. I know there are some difficulties getting healed up from that kind of trauma. Don't push the riding bike thing until your head gets healed.
Not a pleasant way to lose weight...... You didn't look that heavy to start with.
Please know that I and others are thinking of you and please hang in there.
As for the doctor in Seattle, well its a small world :). Had a friend here in Boise, Idaho who had Prostrate surgery on the table here but the doctor doing the surgery was in San Fransisco.... All remote with robotic equipment. Now that scares me....
Stay well and get well. Glad your back to work. It will help the pocket book and time to go by.
George
Hey Lotso,
Hang in there , things will get better and you will ride again. :empathy2:
great news on the power to weight ratio, the fj will seem like it has a turbo. :good2:
Thanks for the update.
We care.
Leon
I can't seem to get ahead. I just returned from a checkup at the hospital. The doctor removed the gauze that has been stitched over my jaw bone for the last 30 days. He saw ANOTHER dead bone, and started pulling and twisting pretty hard. He then noticed that it was held in place by a screw. He schedule ANOTHER SURGERY for April 3 and he said he needs to cut me open and get at the screw from the outside. He then said I was done, leaving everything like it was. So now I have a sharp end of an exposed screw cutting into my tongue, making it very difficult to talk.
This is a big setback for me, physically and emotionally. I talked with my boss and we are currently trying to arrange travel back to the U.S. immediately to let the Mayo Clinic take care of me.
Your continued prayers are appreciated.
Quote from: Lotsokids on March 22, 2013, 07:41:17 AM
I talked with my boss and we are currently trying to arrange travel back to the U.S. immediately to let the Mayo Clinic take care of me.
Your continued prayers are appreciated.
That sounds like a really good idea. Good luck and hang tough. You're going to beat this thing.
Lots
Hopefully they will send u State side there you will get much better health care then where you are now, which in its self is another reason to Leave!! :biggrin:
Baldy
Quote from: Lotsokids on March 22, 2013, 07:41:17 AM
...The doctor removed the gauze that has been stitched over my jaw bone for the last 30 days. He saw ANOTHER dead bone, and started pulling and twisting pretty hard. He then noticed that it was held in place by a screw...
Holy crap, this sounds like something I'd do working on the bike..
+1 on getting back stateside for some better care asap.
Dang! sounds like Hungary is not a place to get hurt. (unless ya dont wanna get better)
get yer hiney back here ASAP and let some real professionals work on your face.
continued prayers for your healing brother!
KOokaloo!
Frank
I hope everything works out for you to get back stateside and get the proper treatment for your injurys.
Fred
People may complain that our health care her in the states is expensive, but it is the best in the world.
Get back here and get things taken care of properly. I've been following your recovery and have been worried about the level of care you've been receiving since my family has been effected by poor health care outside of the U.S.
One of my grandfathers died of a botched cancer surgery. He was stationed in Tokyo and my mother along with a number of other people pleaded with him to fly back to the states to have the surgery done. He refused and elected to have it done in Tokyo. The (Japanese) doctor who performed the surgery accidentally left a bleeder inside him. By the time anyone noticed the doctor had left on vacation and no one could reach him. No other doctor would go in and fix it because of the dishonor that would fall on them if anything went wrong (i.e. if he DIED). So my grandfather died of internal bleeding while in a coma, lying in a hospital bed. Not right for a man who was a true "spy" in every sense of the word, whose service spanned the OSS, CIA, WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War and the cold war. He died in 1987 and I had only ever seen him three times in my life.
Had he been here in the states they would have opened him up as soon as they discovered the problem and fixed it.
Do whatever it takes to get back here and stay as long as necessary to get fully healed. The longer you put it off the greater chance of permanent damage that can't be fixed.
What Mr. Bean said.
Come back and get some quality health care while it still exists.
Take an extended vacation and get your ass back here... :)
Done deal. Unfortunately, the doctor in charge of my company's international personnel denied medical travel. My managers (and higher) said that's CRAP and told me to secure some airline tickets anyway. I did (company is still paying for it - just a different account). AWESOME.
I will be in the Mayo Clinic on Friday to start evaluations and X-rays, then surgery sometime next week.
It feels odd to be actually looking forward to surgery. :wacko2:
Another cool thing is that my parents live fairly close, so I'll be chillin' at their house during recovery for maybe a week. :i_am_so_happy:
Good deal, glad that your employer was willing to work with you so proper treatment can be had. Have a safe trip and surgery. :good2: :good2:
Fred
Quote from: Lotsokids on March 26, 2013, 01:15:17 PM
I will be in the Mayo Clinic on Friday to start evaluations and X-rays, then surgery sometime next week.
It feels odd to be actually looking forward to surgery. :wacko2:
Another cool thing is that my parents live fairly close, so I'll be chillin' at their house during recovery for maybe a week. :i_am_so_happy:
"There's no place like home, there's no place like home..... " ummmm...... :yes: Glad to hear you are coming back here for medical treatment.
George
thats good news Mark!
prayers still going up for you brother :good2:
KOokaloo!
Frank
Quote from: Lotsokids on March 26, 2013, 01:15:17 PM
Done deal. Unfortunately, the doctor in charge of my company's international personnel denied medical travel. My managers (and higher) said that's CRAP and told me to secure some airline tickets anyway. I did (company is still paying for it - just a different account). AWESOME.
I will be in the Mayo Clinic on Friday to start evaluations and X-rays, then surgery sometime next week.
It feels odd to be actually looking forward to surgery. :wacko2:
Another cool thing is that my parents live fairly close, so I'll be chillin' at their house during recovery for maybe a week. :i_am_so_happy:
Mayo Clinic Rochester Minnesota? (that's where I work) - anything I can do for you?
Hope you get well soon, please let us know where you are.
Blessings Kurt
Quote from: Dads_FJ on March 26, 2013, 09:02:26 PM
Mayo Clinic Rochester Minnesota? (that's where I work) - anything I can do for you?
Yes! That's where I'll be. We might pass each other in the hallway and not even know it. I believe everything is taken care of, thank you.
It's a small world
take care mate,, your kookaloo awaits
:good2: Glad your heading home, as there is no place like it to get the required treatment, you were lucky to survive the accident and the Dr's there did a good job to get you on the road to recovery but when you need the best you should really go to the best :yahoo: so you should really come here to AUSTRALIA :rofl2:
Just Kidding good luck thinking of you in this time hope they can get you heading in the right direction!!!
Baldy
Quote from: baldy3853 on March 27, 2013, 06:46:19 AM
when you need the best you should really go to the best :yahoo: so you should really come here to AUSTRALIA :rofl2:
Baldy
I wouldn't mention Australian health care to Klavdy. Didn't he get an infection that nearly knocked him off the perch?
Quote from: ribbert on March 27, 2013, 06:59:24 AM
Quote from: baldy3853 on March 27, 2013, 06:46:19 AM
when you need the best you should really go to the best :yahoo: so you should really come here to AUSTRALIA :rofl2:
Baldy
I wouldn't mention Australian health care to Klavdy. Didn't he get an infection that nearly knocked him off the perch?
No He got that cause he was too silly to go to the Dr's when his guts was hurting so by the time he did it was almost too bloody late and it wouldn't have mattered where he was he would've been on deaths doorstep the bloody d###h@@d :sarcastic: :sarcastic:
Quote from: Lotsokids on March 26, 2013, 11:58:33 PM
Quote from: Dads_FJ on March 26, 2013, 09:02:26 PM
Mayo Clinic Rochester Minnesota? (that's where I work) - anything I can do for you?
Yes! That's where I'll be. We might pass each other in the hallway and not even know it. I believe everything is taken care of, thank you.
It's a small world
Pssssstttt!
See if he can get your sponge baths with the good looking female nurses! :good2:
Quote from: Lotsokids on March 26, 2013, 11:58:33 PM
Quote from: Dads_FJ on March 26, 2013, 09:02:26 PM
Mayo Clinic Rochester Minnesota? (that's where I work) - anything I can do for you?
Yes! That's where I'll be. We might pass each other in the hallway and not even know it. I believe everything is taken care of, thank you.
It's a small world
My uncle was head of Neurosurgery quite a few years ago.... Dr. T. Sundt. Great place for fixing you up! Good luck, Mark!
Thanks for all the comments, guys. Looks like I'll be here at the Mayo Clinic for a long time (like 2 months). They want to do everything including the corrective surgery which requires transplant of a bone from my leg. Then 4 weeks of rehab. They also need to cut and correct the top of my mouth to correct my massive under-bite.
My parents and sister are here with me now. That's awesome to see them again!
It's a pretty intense procedure, but it will be done right... with no further surgeries.
I thank you for your continued prayers. :good2:
Quote from: Lotsokids on March 29, 2013, 10:06:19 PM
Thanks for all the comments, guys. Looks like I'll be here at the Mayo Clinic for a long time (like 2 months). They want to do everything including the corrective surgery which requires transplant of a bone from my leg. Then 4 weeks of rehab. They also need to cut and correct the top of my mouth to correct my massive under-bite.
My parents and sister are here with me now. That's awesome to see them again!
It's a pretty intense procedure, but it will be done right... with no further surgeries.
I thank you for your continued prayers. :good2:
Thanks for the update MArk.... its good to know you are in a good place now complete with family around to help with the healing process. Did Pam and the kids come with you?
Prayers for your entire family brother!
Kookaloo!
Frank
Get well man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and hope you can feel the kookaloo soon. Big R
I'm only about 2 hours from Rochester, if you are up to having visitors, I'd be willing to sit by your side for a while.
Just need your full name and room number.
PM me anything you'd like to share.
Leon
my thoughts are with you mate, glad your going to have the help you need and deserve, think if you had stayed in hungary ,the operations would of been like they're car modification rules , cant fix you as they dont have the original bits
Quote from: racerman_27410 on March 29, 2013, 10:33:02 PM
Did Pam and the kids come with you?
No, I came alone.
Thanks again everyone for the kind words.
NICE :yahoo:
Baldy
Quote from: Lotsokids on March 29, 2013, 10:06:19 PM
They want to do everything including the corrective surgery which requires transplant of a bone from my leg.
This procedure is REALLY gonna mess up the status quo:
"...the foot bone connected to the leg bone. The leg bone connected to the
CHIN bone..."
!?!?!?!?!?
:wacko3:
You're a "one-off" dude, for certain.
I've heard really good things about Mayo care, though. My healing thoughts are going your way, too. With all this virtual karma, and the grace from above, you're going to be O.K.
Steve
Getting a little nervous. I now have a "recent" blood clot, probably from the flight over here. On Apr. 17, they will install a filter into my vein (center body) through the groin. Yes, while I'm awake, but on slight anesthesia through an IV. Then the following day on Apr. 18 is the major surgery. Unfortunately, they will need to do a tracheotomy and feeding tube again. But I'm sure those will be more pleasant than when I had those in Hungary! The doctor assured me I would not wake up in a room shared with 5 old men in diapers. YAY!
I'm kind of concerned about having blood clots going into surgery. I need to stop taking my blood thinners 3 days prior to the surgery. After surgery bed-rest is a breeding ground for blood clots. Hard to be active with a bone removed from the leg.
I feel like I'm throwing myself into their hands in complete faith. Compared to my options, that's fine. All the doctors I have met here are very talented, confident, calm, and reassuring.
You have made it this far man, finish out your E ticket ride and let the powers that be take care of the rest. Thank you for being you....
Many prayers going up for you Mark.... :good2:
Hang in there brother.
Frank
Sending my prayers and good thoughts your way Mark. Thanks for checking in. It's gonna be ok. Pat
youll get to wear those funky anti blood clot stockings, with any luck you should have a private room
Bummer you being by yourself. Some of the exercises they`ll give you are the same as riding the FJ - like clutch and front brake movements for the hands and gear change and/or rear break (depending if leg is still incapacitated)- make sure you keep doing them. I found a set of DR handlebars with tennis balls jammed under the levers really good- but the guys in diapers didn`t appreciate the sounds...mainly cause I kept the imaginary tacho constantly in the red range!...great for coming out of the corners...but not if the meal tray is still there... :dash2:
Quote from: fj11.5 on April 07, 2013, 11:40:24 PM
youll get to wear those funky anti blood clot stockings, with any luck you should have a private room
Hey mate, I kept mine. :gamer: They use warm air to pass through their internal tubes. I plan to work out a way to pass warm water through them when on tha finger freeze ride. I reckon if I hooked`em up to the old oil cooler (that`s gettin replaced by Randy`s) then a couple of tubes, cable tied near me leg positions with two little taps to control temperature via waterflow.
Instead of anything fancy like an electric pump, I was thinking of a small bellows, operated manually...and, and and because they are flat (before they wrap around ya legs to look like stockings), you could fit one inside ya jacket, if need be!... not sure how to operate tha bellows but open to suggestions. (just remember I`m a tight arse! :diablo:)...yet ta figure out how ta stop me fingers from freezing...practically that is! (popcorn)
oh you had the fancy up,market items,, i had the plain old, white long sock type of stockings ,, but i like the use you have planned, , must get bloody cold over your way, i used all manner of bulky arse winter gloves, alpinestars, dryrider, ect ect, but found the best to use are summer gloves, the leather non vented type and oxford mark2 heated grips, weird i know, but having small hands dousnt help with winter gloves
Doug,
Don't worry about the (ex) oil cooler, just hook the tubing up to a modified condom and keep pissing into it. That'll keep your feet warm. Then you can heat your hands by holding them at the vents in the sidecovers. Steering may be a bit of a problem. :-)
Arnie
Quote from: Arnie on April 08, 2013, 03:13:10 AM
Doug,
Don't worry about the (ex) oil cooler, just hook the tubing up to a modified condom and keep pissing into it. That'll keep your feet warm. Then you can heat your hands by holding them at the vents in the sidecovers. Steering may be a bit of a problem. :-)
Arnie
Ummm...not such a silly idea! I had thought of making something like that for the snowy trip. I too have been watchen my weight. When travelling I`ve found that I put on weight everytime I stop for a leak. I found it really difficult to relieve myself when driving long distances in a car, so I knew I had no chance on a bike....until now! What about the last section of tubing...Do I need a baffle & a filter? or should I somehow recycle it?
Our/my thoughts and prayers are with you. Everything is going to be ok, they will fix you up good as new and you will be back on two wheels before you know it.
Blessings to you and your family. Here is to a speedy recovery. Thanks for letting us know how you are doing.
Kurt
:hi: You have come through a hell of a lot in a relatively short period of time...but there is light at the end of the tunnel, believe me, I was 'there' many years ago... :good2:
In a few short months most of this, except for the 'battle scars,' will be behind you.
Our thoughts and prayers, along with many others, are with you (and your family).
John.
Mark-
Let me know if I can help in some way. Good luck! We're all pulling for you.
Dan
Surgery is complete. ALL the doctors continue to tell me that I am recovering VERY quickly.
The doctors say the swelling in the face is normal for this kind of massive work, but may be a little more from my previous scar holding fluids up.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Trabant/Crash%202012/20130420AMMarkface2_zpsf2438335.jpg)
I was walking with a walker (touch only on left leg) the day after surgery! The physical therapist today again was impressed with the progress - only day two. Thankful there is still very little pain, except when exercising that left leg. It is a 31 cm incision!
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Trabant/Crash%202012/20130419PMMarkWalking_zps4b78e2fe.jpg)
Check out the Hungarian hardware they removed from my face!
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Trabant/Crash%202012/Hungarianplatesandscrews2small_zps82b7c467.jpg)
I'm receiving the best care I've ever had. Thanks again for all the prayers!
That all sounds like very good news. Keep up the good healing.
Shame you won't be winning any beauty contests in the near future, but probably not a great burden :-)
That pile of hardware removed...... it looks like just anodized steel. Is it? sheesh!
Arnie
Quote from: Arnie on April 20, 2013, 09:43:53 PM
That pile of hardware removed...... it looks like just anodized steel. Is it? sheesh!
It's titanium.
I see a one time only carb kit in the works, special edition, never to be released again kind of thing... You and Randy need to hook up, compare post OP pics. Very happy to see that you are in very good hands.... Thanks for the the update dude....
Glad to hear you are doing good and finally headed toward real healing. Can't believe all that hardware! Like Dorthy said "there's no place like home, there's no place like home" :dance: :dance:
George
Quote from: movenon on April 20, 2013, 10:01:10 PM
Glad to hear you are doing good and finally headed toward real healing. Can't believe all that hardware! Like Dorthy said "there's no place like home, there's no place like home" :dance: :dance:
George
+1
Oh man, my heart goes out to you.
You look like a little boy that needs a hug from his mother.
The best part is that you're on the mend, thank God!
Take care, and keep strong!
Leon
Mark, thank you for the update.
This make my knee issue seem like a walk in the park. Continue to rest easy and heal properly as I am pleased that you came home for better care than you were getting.
Randy - RPM
That is good news Mark. Sounds like things are going in the right direction. This has to be a great relief for you and your family. Keep it going. Everyone is pulling for you.
Mark M
Glad to hear that you are on the mend. :good:
Fred
Mark,
I was just thinking about how you were getting along and voila!, here is an update!
that looks like a huge pile of screws and strapping....hopefully there is much less hardware now?.
if you need ANYTHING be sure to let us know... we're here for you brother!
prayers going up for your complete healing!
KOokaloo! (hopefully soon :good2:)
Frank
Quote from: racerman_27410 on April 20, 2013, 10:50:08 PM
thanks for the update Mark,
that looks like a huge pile of screws....hopefully there is much less hardware holding you together now.
continued prayers for your healing brother!
KOokaloo! (soon :good2:)
Frank
Fixed it for you
that looks like a huge pile of screws....hopefully there is much less hardware holding
the real you together now.
Good to see you on the mend....thx for sharing the ordeal.....takes alot of courage and faith to walk down the road you are on........it has given me much to think about and even more to be grateful for. God keep you strong brother......
CanDman
See...? Klavdy's prayers worked! Way to go Mark!
Amazing!
I`d make use of that hardware for memorabilia....Say on the side upholstery of tha seat for the studded look...or maybe front guard strengthener? (though the screws might be a bit long). You`re looking good to me. Cheers.
:empathy: Mark that's a lot of hard ware they've taken out could almost start your own hard ware shop with that, would've been a pain in the arse going thru the airport all that metal in there.
Glad your healing better Mark take care and continue the improvement don't over extend it too much you want to continue on the upward spiral, thoughts are with you and your continual return to good health :yahoo:
Baldy
:hi: Peace, health and happiness to you and your family Mark. You are NOW on that road to full recovery :good2:
Make use of the hardware in some way... :mail1: :scratch_one-s_head:
John.
All I can say is? WOW, Glad your recovering and seems like its? Quickly, That's awesome, And I hope your recovery continues to progress, Back in 89' I had a lady in a car cut me off while I was riding on my motorcycle and I ended up in the hospital for 6 months and 2 years of therapy, sorry no pics to share of this one, Totaled my bike, and one month before I was released from therapy, I bought another motorcycle and rode it to where I was getting my therapy, when I was getting off the bike and taking off my helmet, my therapist was standing there, and she ask me, "are you stupid?", with a smile on my face, I replied, "I love to ride", she just shuck her head and walked inside
Shawn,
As demonstrated by your therapist, those who don't ride just don't get it.
Arnie
Quote from: racerman_27410 on April 20, 2013, 10:50:08 PM
Mark,
if you need ANYTHING be sure to let us know... we're here for you brother!
Frank
My sentiments precisely.
Dan
Here's more details of the surgery. They accomplished a "simulated" surgery on me first to see how everything aligns after movement. They needed to break the entire roof of my mouth and move it. They had to remove about 4.5 inches of leg bone to make up my lower jaw. They created a template to ensure exact cuts. This technology is absolutely amazing! The doctor said the bone fit perfectly into the jaw. Physical therapy starting today on the leg for at least 4 weeks.
Note the nasty [healed] fracture in the right eye socket! :shok:
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Trabant/Crash%202012/Complete_zpsf3849e64.jpg)
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Trabant/Crash%202012/Jaw_zps98758a71.jpg)
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Trabant/Crash%202012/Leg_zps9df94669.jpg)
Man, I think that you are one lucky sob. Looking at those pictures, it's agood thing that you are back in the states. Take care and heal well. Hopefully you will be able to feel the kookloo before to long. Big R
Wishing the best through your recovery, one day at a time. In 82 I had a nasty spill on a YZ465 off a jump in a race. Head hit a good sized rock split my moto 3 helmet and I had my first and severe concussion. Short term memory loss for 4 months. Couldn't remember conversations 2 hrs after I had them, 2 to 3 days later I could remember bits and pieces of it. Long story short end of racing career, and another one like that I could end up like that the rest of my life. I ride cause I love it, can't explain it. Its just would I like and enjoy.
Keep It upright and on two wheels guys.
Much relieved to hear you are doing well. Welcome back to the states where we do have the best doctors in the world.
Wonder if the Hungarian hardware was originally removed form a scrapped Russian MIG before being "recycled" for medical use? :lol:
Quote from: pdxfj on April 26, 2013, 11:32:22 AM
Wonder if the Hungarian hardware was originally removed form a scrapped Russian MIG before being "recycled" for medical use? :lol:
Very possibly!
Vary happy you are in better hands now, the world will be better with you and your family in it...
that is amazing!
Now your legbone is connected to your jaw bone.....LOL that really messes up the song.....but will probably make eating a steak much more enjoyable! :good2:
Keep healing brother!
KOokaloo!
Frank
Quote from: racerman_27410 on April 26, 2013, 09:04:10 PM
that is amazing!
Now your legbone is connected to your jaw bone.....LOL that really messes up the song.....but will probably make eating a steak much more enjoyable! :good2:
Frank
......doesn't mess anything up..........and the jaw bones connected to the T- Bone....... :nyam1:
Caneatsoonman
Heal well.
Dan
:hi: Amazing pictures :wacko3: I like the D.I.D chain drive jaw...should make for fast eating :rofl2: :lol: :rofl:... :biggrin:
Heal well and all the very best to you and your family... :good2:
John.
Your tha only bloke I know that can lead with his shin! Nice to see your progress. :good2:
wow , those pics are like the teminator. Are you becoming a cyborg?
I have high hopes for your continued recovery and good health .
God bless.
Hi all. Just a quick update. I am still progressing well with my healing. I got back from the Mayo Clinic yesterday. They removed the large plastic brace on my upper teeth. Now I have a smaller removable retainer. I am at 100% weight-bearing on my left leg. The ankle still swells and it's very stiff even though I stretch 2 or 3 times per day. I am still seeing a therapist for the leg twice a week. I fly back to Hungary on June 7, then back to work on June 10.
Eating is still a challenge. My teeth are all messed up and it's hard to chew. In August I will return to the Mayo Clinic for tooth implants and cosmetic surgery. Then I'll be in good shape!
Through this whole experience, I've had little to no pain. No meds, either. It's a miracle, really. Thanks for your prayers.
I took a ride with my dad last week. He rode his Gold Wing, and I rode his Honda VTX 1300, which scored a ZERO for performance and handling. But hey, it's two wheels! This was my first ride since last November.
Mark
Note the cane strapped to the back: :pardon:
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Bike_Cane_zps7129b6d9.jpg)
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Bikes_zps1e6b42ad.jpg)
Here's the new X-ray. The small triangles around the top teeth were holding the large brace in, which is now gone. You can also see the 3 bases they installed for the tooth implants later.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Trabant/Crash%202012/Jaw_Repair_zpse0292b46.jpg)
That's pretty awesome, Mark!
Glad to see that they've been able to get you fixed up.
That's what dads are for.
Good for you for getting back on two wheels.
Must have felt really good!
Leon
thanks for the update Mark.
It's good to know you got good treament in time.
continued prayers for complete healing brother!
KOokaloo!
Frank
Mark
Good to hear you are improving all the time, glad to see you managed to get out for a ride on your dads VTX, hopefully the health continues to improve.
Baldy
Excellent news! Thanks for keeping us updated.
You're in good hands, and you'll be back to your old self in no time. :good:
Great news Mark. Forward progress is encouraging and the bike ride had to be good for the soul! Keep getting well.
I go in for a checkup at the Mayo Clinic on Wednesday, then fly back home to Hungary on Friday. Everything is still going well. I can stand and walk on the left leg unassisted now.
A picture is worth a thousand words:(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Lotsokids/Trabant/Crash%202012/Restored_Poster_zps7133a21a.jpg)
That's great news !! Just keep moving toward the light :good2:.
George
:hi: What a difference a few months can make eh!!! You truely are blessed my friend :good2:
John.
Glad to hear you are on the road to recovery!
Make sure you let us know when you will be in the states long enough to attend a rally, so we can hear all those crazy Hungarian stories!
Lookin Good! :good:
Wow!! You look ready for a Rally, I hope you feel as well as you look in the picture. Awesome dude, I need to drink a few beer's with you and swap stories (BS and lies). Keep up the healing and the good work you and your family are doing for the needy...
Glad you are on your feet, and healing well. Take care of yourself!
Quote from: Firehawk068 on June 03, 2013, 08:49:18 PM
Make sure you let us know when you will be in the states long enough to attend a rally, so we can hear all those crazy Hungarian stories!
We wouldn't have that much time. Ha ha.
Thanks for the comments, everyone! I've got my sights on riding my FJ as soon as possible. But with a little swelling still at the left jaw, I don't know if my helmet will fit. ICON helmets are very narrow.
It's very good to see you doing better Mark and I hope your helmet fits soon!....Best wishes to you & your family, I'm sure it's been hard on them...and yes, we need more Hungarian stories! LOL
Returned from Mayo last night. Left at 3:00 AM and returned at 8:00 PM. No quick check-up yesterday! Much discussion with my surgeon, then I went to see a prosthodontist about my teeth. THEY PULLED 3 MORE TEETH YESTERDAY. They were in bad shape from the accident and were not going to make it. One had a broken root and the other two were damaged near the base and very loose. I have now lost 11 teeth. When I return in August, they will remove 2 more teeth and make a temporary "fake teeth set" and anchor it into bases in the jaw (leg) bone. A permanent set will be installed in Nov. or Dec.
What a long road. I think a complete head transplant would have been easier! :crazy:
FLYING HOME TOMORROW!!! :yahoo:
Quote from: Lotsokids on June 06, 2013, 09:52:52 AM
I have now lost 11 teeth.
And to think I thought I had it bad when I only broke 11 teeth in an accident.
Kind of puts things into a different perspective.
Glad to see you're getting the care that you needed.
Perhaps a small caveat but after all that pain and suffering at least you can avoid the potential of a tooth ache....
Well, bad news today. The Hungarian Central Investigation Office found ME at fault for my accident.
1. I disregarded the signal to stop (Rainy day, a guy in camouflage waving his hands). In their own testimony, they said I did not slow down or turn. In my testimony, I mentioned that is a good indication that I did not see him!
2. I disregarded the speed limit of 30 km/h. Truth is, they determined that I was going 47-48 km/h, and I have proof that this was a 50 km/h zone... now changed to 30 after my accident. I was in charge of training, and I have a copy of the original training material that proves this.
I have 8 days to appeal. [sliding the boxing gloves on] Originally there were criminal charges against the two guys opening the door with the cable across the road. They dropped all those charges, which is fine with me. I don't believe they were trying to kill me. But they shouldn't say It's MY fault. It seems they are shifting the blame to dodge any liability. The letter I received today made it seem that I intentionally drove my car into the cable. They said the cable, although unmarked, could be clearly seen, I disregarded commands to stop, and sped recklessly and somewhat intentionally into the cable and nearly decapitated myself.
They also mentioned that my engine was changed "with permission" that was capable of reaching 135 km/h. And my tires were not OEM size, changed "without permission" which were slightly wider than stock. How does any of this relate to my accident?
There is an international lawyer involved from my company (Boeing) that I will be talking to tomorrow.
Unbelievable. :dash2:
WTF???? What would have happened if you had After Market toilet paper in your trunk? A perfect example of adding insult to injury. I hope the lawyer can straighten them out.
Sounds like you are getting the short end of the stick, mate.
I call bullshit on the cable being clearly visible. A what, 25mm, 1 inch diameter grey steel cable, unreflective due to rain and overcast conditions, against a background of wet, grey concrete or tarmac? I challenge anybody to pick that up, when your visual focus would have been at the road surface, several hundred meters to your front, relying on your peripheral vision to spot hazards coming from the sides. Human vision is attracted to movement, a static, invisible cable outside of your threat detection zone would have been impossible to spot. Also the cable was obviously at head height. Relative to your position as you drove towards it, there would be no appreciable movement of the cable, as if you are on a collision course with an object it's relative bearing towards you stays fixed.
If I can pick up holes in their statements this easily using school physics then I'm sure a professional lawyer won't have an issue destroying their case. Good luck, I'll be waiting to hear results with interest.
Cheers,
James
Quote from: tmkaos on September 11, 2013, 02:52:38 PM
Sounds like you are getting the short end of the stick, mate.
I call bullshit on the cable being clearly visible. A what, 25mm, 1 inch diameter grey steel cable, unreflective due to rain and overcast conditions, against a background of wet, grey concrete or tarmac? I challenge anybody to pick that up, when your visual focus would have been at the road surface, several hundred meters to your front, relying on your peripheral vision to spot hazards coming from the sides. Human vision is attracted to movement, a static, invisible cable outside of your threat detection zone would have been impossible to spot. Also the cable was obviously at head height. Relative to your position as you drove towards it, there would be no appreciable movement of the cable, as if you are on a collision course with an object it's relative bearing towards you stays fixed.
If I can pick up holes in their statements this easily using school physics then I'm sure a professional lawyer won't have an issue destroying their case. Good luck, I'll be waiting to hear results with interest.
Cheers,
James
Having driven many miles on airfields, I can say that in 10 years, I never saw anything like that.
Quote from: Lotsokids on September 11, 2013, 12:04:04 PM
It seems they are shifting the blame to dodge any liability.
And changing facts.
Good luck Mark.
Thought I would dig this up and add some updates.
I am in the U.S. now on my way back to the Mayo Clinic for my FINAL procedures. They will be correcting a bald spot on the back of my head caused by a bedsore in Hungary (6 days in a coma, in one position. No pillow, just a folded blanket). They will also be installing upper fake teeth (prostheses).
Then ALL of my medical procedures will be complete.
On the legal side... the Hungarian prosecutor responded to my appeal. Denied. But this time he said they did not find me at fault. But it clearly says this in the original document. Since I now have a document that says I am NOT at fault, I have decided to let this die. Besides, this was a criminal case against the two guys operating the cable I hit. It was an accident, and I totally understand this. I honestly don't want these guys severely punished. Lessons have been learned and changes have been made to ensure this doesn't happen again. My insurance is paying 100% of the nearly $200,000 repair to my head.
Overall... I'm thankful. :i_am_so_happy:
Given the situation it's probably the best outcome. At some point you have to focus on going forward. Not that things are fair or right. I am glad that you are here and well to enjoy your family and life.
Your legal situation over there is not unique. We are living with one caused by a hospital right here in the U.S.. People that say "I would sue them", I believe watch to much TV and have never been down that road themselves. I am not talking about small claims issues. When big dollars are involved it's amazing what happens.
Again I am glad your here with us and your family. Glad that your insurance has taken care of you. And keep looking forward Mark there is a lot to enjoy in life.
George :drinks:
Now that you have a $200K head, I can't wait to see what kind helmet you are gonna buy. You know... $10 head, $10 helmet... :biggrin:
This one seems quite pricey - http://blog.leatherup.com/2010/07/06/the-most-expensive-motorcycle-helmet-in-the-world/ (http://blog.leatherup.com/2010/07/06/the-most-expensive-motorcycle-helmet-in-the-world/)
This is quite unique - (http://thatcoolblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/helmet.jpg?w=520)
And some other fun stuff (scroll down) - http://mohinhclub.vn/threads/nhung-chiec-mu-bao-hiem-doc-dao.591/ (http://mohinhclub.vn/threads/nhung-chiec-mu-bao-hiem-doc-dao.591/)
Quote from: movenon on February 06, 2014, 06:44:54 PM
Given the situation it's probably the best outcome. At some point you have to focus on going forward. Not that things are fair or right. I am glad that you are here and well to enjoy your family and life.
Your legal situation over there is not unique. We are living with one caused by a hospital right here in the U.S.. People that say "I would sue them", I believe watch to much TV and have never been down that road themselves. I am not talking about small claims issues. When big dollars are involved it's amazing what happens.
Again I am glad your here with us and your family. Glad that your insurance has taken care of you. And keep looking forward Mark there is a lot to enjoy in life.
George :drinks:
+1 Mark & George. Glad you`re here and going forward. We are also living one, but decided not to proceed due to risk and the consequential, reality of focus on the negative. However we have asked for a medical audit to ensure an event is not replicated and that some beneficial education may be gained for that hard working, dedicated and compassionate industry.
Are ya back on the Bike?...the best prescription/goal. :drinks:
Quote from: The General on February 06, 2014, 11:43:34 PM
Are ya back on the Bike?...the best prescription/goal. :drinks:
Absolutely. Yes, good therapy. :biggrin: