Woodworker's Journal 2011-35-1, страница 22

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Shop Talk

Finding Refuge in the Workshop

"Multiple Sclerosis

is a complex disease for which the cause and cure are still unknown." Rosalind C. Kalb, Ph.D. Au:hor, "Multiple Sclerosis: The Questions You Have, the Answers You Need."

Dr. H. Phil Gross

Designs to Fit Abilities

I was 30 years old and finishing my training in orthopedic surgery when 1 was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. A wise neurologist advised me not to abandon my dreams but rather to work with my hands and enjoy life as long as possible. For 30 years, 1 practiced general orthopedics with a specialty in hip and knee joint replacements. At home, with my wife. Jo, and three children, I enjoyed my workshop, so Jo suggested I make the yearly Christmas presents. I naturally depended on my hands to create ideas for projects ranging from wood pieces to metal and wire sculpture.

In my late 50s, I began to wonder if my legs would hold up through a surgical procedure. This time, I took the advice of Yogi Berra and decided to "get off the mound before getting hit." I retired. The first few years, 1 finished some research, studied medical ethics, traveled and read books for fun. Then, the disease progressed. 1 eould not walk anymore and was desolate from lack of physical activity. Gradually, I began to think about working with my hands again. 1 imagined what I could and could not do. I dared to dream of a woodshop and began putting one together. 1 would work with wooden joints. And, so 1 have.

My disability involves marked loss of use of the lower extremities and minimal

loss of the upper extremities. 1 am confined to a wheelchair but am able to transfer to a stool and work at the bench or on one of my machines.

Disabilities come in many variations, and each person responds in his or her own way. I am bold to explain how I enjoy the challenges and trust my experience will help others.

Fortunately, my shop is very small. The floor space is 12

bv 18 foot. I have two standard workbenches, a table saw, band saw, scroll saw, router table, drill press and two lathes — one a mini-lathe and the other standard size. 1 ambulate through the maze of machines and benches using each as a grab bar until 1 sit on my stool and carry out whatever function is indicated.

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February 2011 Woodworker's Journal

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