[pat23]

Hi to you all

I have been playing the guitar for over forty years. I teach guitar in my spare time and I am a lead guitarist in a couple of bands.
On monday morning ( 17th of September ) while at work, i had an accident which resulted in the partial amputation of my left ring finger. I lost the top joint *ouch* @#$%^&!!!!!!!!!! .
You all know how important this finger is for bending and vibrato.
A very dear friend of mine Doug who is a member of Guitarforbeginners posted my accident on your forum. Because of the overwhlming support and get well wishes I recieved, Ive joined to thank you all.
Also to let you all know that if i can help any one with a similar expierince deal with and adapt ( Im going to concentrate on slide guitar untill i can start building up the calouses on my finger ). How about other guitarists who have had accidents, how have you coped? drop me a line best wishes to you all Pat

[si16]

Hi Pat and welcome. I was sorry to hear from Doug about your accident but I think you're showing remarkable fortitude and courage to overcome it. Good for you.

[allthumbs]

Hi Pat. Glad you joined us. Where there is a will there is a way. I have seen vids of guys playing with one hand, their feet and a blues lead player who played using just his thumb.
You might even consider playing like Jeff Healy. You wouldn't believe the bends and vibrato you can get when you can get your entire arm behind it. The reach between your pinky and thumb can also open up new possibilities too. I have faith that you will find a way that works for you bro.

[scorpius]

Hello, Pat. Welcome.

[coldethyl]

Welcome to the forum Pat.

I just wanted to say how much I admire your determination not to give up on guitar playing and it obviously shows how much you love playing.
I hope everything works out for you and that your finger heals quickly and I'm sorry to read that you lost the top part of your left ring finger.

In your post you offered to help anyone with similar experiences. Although I've not been through anything like you have undergone, you've already helped me by your determination and strength of character which has inspired me to never let anything stand in the way of guitar playing.

So thankyou!

[GotDeeBlues]

Welcome, wish you the very best of luck.

[knight46]

Hello Pat and welcome.

[Falkon]

Hi Pat, thank you for joining us and offering your help. Sorry to hear about your accident but I'm sure you'll find that love always conquers all.