Shortly after Aaron arrived at work on January 2nd 2007, his co-worker called to let him know that she had a flat tire on Highway 169 and 394 and would be late. Aarons co-worker was 4 months pregnant so when she called back to say that the road side assistance was going to be an hour and half before they could help her, he decided to get in his car and go help her right a way. Aaron parked his car behind hers and proceeded to fix the tire.
At the moment he was taking the tire out of the trunk, an unaware driver hit Aaron’s car and pinched him between the cars. Thankfully Aaron was still alive but tragically he lost a leg at the scene and sustained other critical injuries. Aaron was rushed to North Memorial Hospital where the best surgical team was waiting for him. After the surgical team assessed Aaron’s situation, they told his family that he was in stable condition but the other leg was too damaged to save. Aaron became a bi-lateral above the knee amputee.
After 6 surgeries and 18 days in the hospital Aaron was released from the hospital to start recovery and rehabilitation. Thanks to his determination and the overwhelming support from friend and family, Aaron has been tremendously successful in his recovery efforts. He received his prosthetic legs 4 months after the accident and was walking and played his first round of golf 2 months after that. Within the first year after his accident, Aaron learned to walk on his own, play several rounds of golf, drive a car with hand controls, travel and return to his full time job. To learn more about Aaron’s recovery you can visit Caring Bridge.
Looking back Aaron has realized how successful his recovery has been and is thankful for all of the resources and information he receive so quickly after his accident. Aaron has found that there is a need to supply amputees with expectations and inspiration. In May 2008, Aaron founded "Wiggle Your Toes" a Minnesota based Non-profit (501 c 3) organization that helps amputees and their families regain mobility and independence. Learn more about Wiggle your Toes.
