Texas Principals,

For 17 years I've been in a wheelchair...it's a tough road sometimes...but it pushes me to be better at what I do. I work in a great district that pushes for excellence, but also knows that their employees have to take care of themselves. They remind us constantly that they appreciate us and to let them know our needs.

I've been putting off carpal-tunnel surgery in my hands for the simple fact there was never a right time...there was never going to be a right time. I was worried about adding more to my plate with the months it takes to recover.

Two months ago the pain got to a point where I couldn't sleep. It was time, and you can imagine that being a wheelchair user I was apprehensive. 

Nine days ago I took the leap with the first of two surgeries, starting with my left hand. The tingles...and pain were instantly gone; but other than the comedy of pushing in circles, I had to rely on my children to push me around, my wife to help me dress, and I had to take stock of even more of my surroundings. Being very left handed since my wreck...I was learning day-to-day things over again...

This led me to thinking about staff, they need to be encouraged to take care of themselves...not that I hadn't taken care of myself. I had spent too much time believing I could put off something another year. MY hand surgeon was so worried he immediately scheduled surgery and told me if I waited a few more months I would have lost the ability to use my left hand.

With my staff I have always taken care to encourage them to get help, take care of their life and families; but rest assured I will always take more care and direct more focus on needs.

On a positive note...stiches come out tomorrow!

Mike-