I enjoy football as much as the next girl. Like any fan I was upset and saddened by Buffalo Bills’ player Kevin Everett’s spinal cord injury last Sunday. Today on cable news I saw an update on his condition – and was surprised by my strong emotional response.
Doctors state that Mr. Everett was able to move his arms and legs on Tuesday, what they considered an unexpected and very hopeful sign. It is possible that he will walk again and a full recovery is now a potential, if not considered likely. For a player whose prior outlook was thought to include paralysis, and a limited ability to walk, this is wonderful news.
While watching this I felt a surge of gratitude for everyone who made this man’s recovery possible – the doctors, the scientists studying spinal cord injury and the hundreds of thousands of people who donate to this cause. The breakthrough is most likely due to a cold saline solution given to Everett within minutes of his injury. This fluid induces a hypothermic state that decreases swelling and limits further damage to spinal cord tissue.
In the spirit of promoting a good cause and celebrating the wonders of science, I’d like to refer my readers to a great web site with an inspiring idea. Visit positive thinking day.com on September 13 -15th; leave a comment or purchase a product and 50% of the proceeds will go to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. It’s a great idea and a great way to make a difference.
