The Four and a Quarter Finger Salute

[Pissant]

A few months ago I lost my right index finger and thumb....(I'm a lefty) Thankfully I had the thumb replanted. I'm not bitter but actually grateful that things aren't any worse(I could be sporting a hook). I was and will be again a very competitive instinctive archer. I was just wondering if anyone else has any digits missing or has any input on the subject. Although my thumb is there it is very stiff and I have a substantial amount of nerve damage. I have minimal feeling but I can't complain with my weekly hand massage from my gorgeous physical therapist. I haven't picked up my bow since the accident but was just released to use my hand at it's full capacity. Tomorrow I have the day off and I'm going to pick up the bow and begin to rebuild mentally and physically. It's just a finger, small potatoes in my book. I would love to hear any input on the subject though, I have no choice but to embrace it....just part of the process of reinventing yourself right? [banghead]

Jay aka Pissant(stumpy, franky 4 fingers, captain nub, insert clever nickname here_______)

[katman]

Congrats on how you are handling the curve ball thrown at you. With your attitude you will be shooting well again soon.

You might try a wrist or finger sling so you won't feel the need to grab the bow with your other fingers.

[Mohillbilly]

Great attitude Jay.  I have cut myself badly on a couple of occasions....haven't completely lost a finger yet...knock on wood.  You are tough both mentally and physically.  I wish you all the best and am sure you will be drilling your targets shortly.  Shoot straight!
Bret

[lpcjon2]

If it helps my wife says I lost my mind most days.

   

[Jerry Wald]

too bad but looks like your positive attitude will work for you though....may have to shoot left handed...just a thought

jer Bear

[foxfire]

I second the sling...But Jay, you need to experiment
and go with what works for you .  I firmly
believe that if you were shooting well instinctivly before , that your mind and body
will compensate . But you need to do the required work....It's all up to you, but you already know that , huh ? Keep working at it
and I wish you all the best !

[Ragnarok Forge]

I lost two finger tips as a kid and the doc sewed them back on, they are on my string hand, index and middle fingers.  They both go numb if I shoot to much.  I don't let it bother me.  Keep up the positive outlook and make sure to ask that nice ( gorgeous ) Physical Therapist out to dinner for being so helpful in your recover.

[Pissant]

Thanks for all the encouragement guys!

Jerry,
  I actually do shoot left handed.  I have considered shooting right but I do feel optimistic that I can train my right hand to hold the bow again efficiently.  I do know one thing, I'm not gonna bend like everyone tells me and shoot the training wheels or crossbow.

[mickeys4]

Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.  ~Walter Elliott, The Spiritual Life

[reddogge]

You are in good company....Fred Bear lost a finger too.

[Craig Schoneberg]

I applaud you on your positive outlook.  Keep up with the physical therapy - those people are miracle workers.  Haven't lost any digits, but did lose an eye in a shooting accident about 46 years ago.  Stuff happens, and you just go on with life . . . Good luck!
Craig

[ksbowman]

I'm right handed and lost half my left thumb a few years back. I don't have any trouble holding on to the bow or with my grip on the bow.Doesn't take as long to cut my finger nails now!  Ben

[foxfire]

Oh Jay, please keep your status posted.
Other tips may come up ... Private , public...
just keep us posted...That's what it's all about .
Helping you....YOU helping others ....huh ?

[pup]

You've never laid down before,I don't expect you ever will.It's good to see your thoughts are still with the arrow Jay!Hope to see you soon,wish you the best.  PUP

[Tommy Leach]

Jay - Great attitude! I've got a HS classmate who lost half of his bow hand, only thumb and index finger left. It didn't slow him down a bit. Keep the spirits up and get back behind the bow. Best of luck! Tommy

[Pissant]

Ks, that's encouraging for sure...if I can get past the discomfort from the nerve damage I don't see a problem holding the bow at all....did you finally get used to the odd tingling sensation and slight pain or did it just go away?

Foxfire, I most def will keep updates...if I can learn or teach anyone anything about the subject I will do so.

Pup, how the H have you been sally-a$$?...Are you shooting tomorrow night?... I was thinking about coming down and trying to fling some arrows.  If not I can always settle with some good old fashion ball bustin...

[longbowhntr]

Jay, hang in there buddy. you will make it work with your attitude no problem. I have a "factory" defect on my left hand and have only two fingers on my left hand which is my bow hand. A wrist sling is what I use now. When I started shooting I shot left handed and still do ever once in while.
If there is anything I can help you with fell free to send a PM or email. In my case its been this way from the beginning so it was easier for me.
Just remember... "Fingers are Overrated Anyway"  

                       

David

[Clint B.]

Look at photos of Fred Bear showing the ring finger of his right (bow holding) hand. The last joint is missing.

[DannyBows]

I can't give any advise but I can tell from your attitude you'll be shooting as good or better than before in no time. Best of luck to you and keep us posted on your progress.

[pcappy08]

Jay
Thats an amazing and great attitude to have!  I can relate to your pain just not to your extent.  At work at the beginning of the month i got my thumb in the miter saw.  Been home for the last three weeks.  Like you i feel life goes on and im thankful that it was no where near as bad as it could have been.  In time i will be fine and back to shooting the bow.  From one stumpy to another hang in there brother