RANDY PLETT ON THE MEND

Some folks may be aware that Randy Plett was seriously injured in a road cycling race on May 28 as reported in Inline Skate MPLS.

The good news is that, after surgery and a hospital stay, Randy is now up walking, at home and on the road to recovery. Here's Randy's own words from a recent e-mail:
I have been totally overwhelmed with the support from family friends. I have had prayers and well wishes by e-mail, cards, phone calls from around the world. It is amazing to see the outpouring of support, so thanks to you all for your well wishes.

This is to let you all know that I am finally home from hospital from a severe C-6 and C-7 fracture (7 exploded with the impact) and now a successful surgery to stabilize and rebuild the joints (no more sneaking through airport screening for me with all that titanium in my neck!). I have a CTO brace (Patrick will know this one) which supports my upper back and full neck brace which I will wear for at least 2 months. At that point most of the healing should have happened, and I can then start the neck rehab to get my muscles strong enough to support the weight of my head (you can’t imagine how heavy it feels when your muscles are shot).

I am up walking and feeling ok, aside from the muscle spasms from surgery. I hope I can recover in time for ice season, but that is secondary at this point.

Thanks again for all your support.

Randy was the overall top male skater in the 2nd Masters International Canadian Open and is the Canadian record holder for long track Masters Men (40-49) 500m olympic style on outdoor ovals and 1500m mass start on indoor ovals. Words of encouragement can be sent to Randy at redriverspeed@mts.net.