Palm Harbor teacher recovering after lightning strike
PALM HARBOR, Fla. — A Pinellas County Schools teacher is again residence, recovering after being struck by lightning throughout a visit to Peru in November.
James Fernandez was using his bike along with his shut pal, Yuri Botelho, when the strike occurred. Yuri died, and Fernandez was thrown from his bike, injuring his backbone. He is now in a wheelchair.
“It’s a spinal cord injury on C3-C4, which is a complete injury, meaning I have no feeling or movement from my shoulders down. Totally quadriplegic,” Fernandez stated.
He was first handled at a hospital in Peru earlier than being transferred to a hospital in Tampa. He later went to a rehabilitation middle in Atlanta.
Fernandez is now again residence in Palm Harbor, the place his restoration is ongoing.
“It’s a roller coaster of emotions. Some days are great, some days are not,” he stated. “But I think big picture, yes I am upbeat. I’ve just always been like that.”
His spouse, Alexis, has been by his aspect, together with their two kids and prolonged household.
“I believe the entire assist we’ve got acquired has helped us have a variety of hope for the way stunning — we knew we have been nonetheless going to have a tremendous life,” she said. “Like he stated, we’re actually optimistic folks. It’s wonderful that he’s alive, and we’re so grateful for that.”
Support has additionally come from Palm Harbor Middle School and others locally.
“These are like the 250 cards that James has received, from his students, from family friends, people we don’t even know,” Alexis stated.
Fernandez and his household at the moment are adjusting to their new actuality. Doctors say he may regain extra perform in his physique, however solely time will inform.
“I’ve my ups and downs, however general I’m simply so grateful that I’m right here and I get to see my spouse on daily basis, my children develop up, that I’ve my household round me, my associates,” he said. “I believe if I did not have all that — the assist — it is all that assist that’s serving to me to remain upbeat.”
His household says that energy and a optimistic angle will assist them transfer ahead.
The household can also be accepting donations to assist as they transition into their new life.
