From Tragedy to Triumph: A Man's Journey of Recovery After a Devastating Spinal Cord Injury

In a compelling personal account, Stefan, known online as Nezaustavljiv, shared his profound journey of recovery following a life-altering spinal cord injury sustained on August 2, 2015. While on vacation in Greece, a seemingly routine jump into the sea from a dock resulted in him hitting his head, leading to an incomplete quadriplegia at the C5-C6 level. Stefan recounted the immediate aftermath, describing how he was unable to move his body, floating face down until his sister and a passerby rescued him. He was initially hospitalized in Thessaloniki, Greece, before being transported to Belgrade, Serbia. There, he underwent a 'halo traction' procedure, a method he critically described as 'very old and no longer used anywhere else in the world.' After five years of this treatment with limited progress, Stefan and his family sought a second opinion at a private clinic. This led to a crucial surgery where a titanium plate was implanted in his neck to stabilize his C4, C5, and C6 vertebrae. He emphasized that early surgical decompression is vital for spinal cord injuries, suggesting that his delayed operation might have hindered his recovery. Stefan's narrative then shifted to his arduous rehabilitation at Sokobanja, highlighting the immense physical and psychological struggles. He stressed the paramount importance of strengthening his hands, as they became his primary means of movement and independence. His message is one of hope and empowerment, encouraging others facing similar challenges to remain positive, train diligently, and strive for self-reliance. He also aims to educate the healthy population on how to approach and support individuals with disabilities, underscoring that a fulfilling life is possible after such injuries.

www.kurir.rs

Stao sam na stenu, raširio ruke, skočio u vodu... Već 10 godina sam u invalidsk…

Stefan je 2015. bio u Grčkoj na letovanju sa porodicom, skočio je sa stena sa kojih je skakao i bezbroj puta ranije, ali ovog puta je završio u bolni…