Jul 13, 2009 9:05 pm US/Central
Inspiring Story From Motorcycle Accident Victim
(WCCO)
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Fischer is a bit of a character -- the kind of guy who puts on a tie for his last day of rehab. (File)
CBS
Imagine taking a test that determined whether you get to go home or have to stay in the hospital. That's exactly what they're doing under a new program at Sister Kenny Institute in Minneapolis where patients test out of the things they'll do at home before being discharged.
As a result, Graduation Day is called Achievement Day, but for Nick Fischer, his biggest achievement may be that he never lost his positive attitude.
Fischer is a bit of a character -- the kind of guy who puts on a tie for his last day of rehab.
"He is non-stop talk," said occupational therapist Meg Boese. "He's not going to let anything stand in his way."
"Oh, I'll miss his sense of humor," said Dr. Jeanine Speier. "It's a delight to round on him every day and to see him around."
However, why he's at Sister Kenny Institute is no joking matter. A low-speed motorcycle accident in Fargo broke his back and left him paralyzed from the waist down.
"I kind of snapped down to the ground," Fischer said. "I had a leather jacket on and a helmet, so other than the spinal injury and not having feeling past the waist, I was very blessed. I mean, no head injuries or anything like that."
Since then, he's had surgery in Fargo, been promoted at work and before being transferred to the Twin Cities, he got married at the hospital.
"Everybody kind of crowded around," said Fischer. "Stacie was standing next to me in the bed, and it was nice. We're planning to probably have more of an elaborate reception once a few months down the road."
The tests proved he's ready to go home and back to work. He'll never walk again, but that will never stop him from always moving forward.
"This isn't going to prevent me from doing anything," Fischer said. "I'll be 100 percent independent. I'll be able to drive my own vehicle. I'll be able to golf again. If I wanted to get another motorcycle, it would have three wheels, but you know I'd be able to do that again."
Fischer may also help others. He has already counseled fellow patients and may also speak to groups in the future.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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