Why perspective is powerful

The way you approach a situation can make all the difference in the world, especially in your attitude. It can be the deciding factor in whether you conquer a bad situation or crumble under it. Sometimes, having the right perspective can be all it takes to give you that "aha" moment, which allows you to take a more optimistic approach. And, in those moments, when you want to give up, all you need is someone beside you to help get you through. Most people don't realize how difficult it can be to navigate life after sustaining a spinal cord injury. Not only does the injured person have to face the frightening reality of giving up his or her abilities and independence, but their family is also thrust into the middle of the chaos. For everyone involved, their world is turned upside down. The person who is injured can only lay in their hospital bed, wondering what the future holds. It's a terrible nightmare to experience, but having your loved ones by your side can make all the difference in the world. In order for that to happen, whether it's a spouse or parents, they will have to put everything else on hold, so they can be at the hospital. Most families don't have jobs that provide benefits of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) insurance with a low deductible or much money in savings that they can depend on for very long. This means the financial strain starts early and is compounded when the parents or spouse have to quit working so they can be nearby. Depending on how far the hospital is from home, this could mean driving or flying long distances as well as staying in a hotel. These expenses add up and fast. After sustaining a spinal cord injury in 2006, I witnessed my family experience all of this and more. The mental, emotional and financial strain a spinal cord injury puts on everyone involved is nothing short of torturous. Because of this, my wife and I decided to start a nonprofit organization called New Perspective Foundation, which helps families with their travel expenses after a loved one sustains a spinal cord injury. New Perspective will assist with airfare, lodging, gas, rental car, etc., so families can afford to be at the bedsides of their loved ones. The financial strain should not be what families are focused on during this time — they have enough on their minds already. We created this foundation because there aren't any other resources out there, that address this need. Since 2014, we have been able to provide over $275,000 in financial assistance to families from Ohio, Georgia and Florida. Our funding comes from the support of grants, individual donations and community fundraisers, like the one we are hosting here in Sandusky on July 29-30. We would greatly appreciate any and all support, as we move forward with our mission of helping families figure out their new perspective on life. Please visit our website, newperspective.org, for information on our fundraiser weekend, to learn more about what we do and to read stories from families we have helped. Tyson GentryFounder and president, New Perspective Foundation If you want to submit a Local Voices column, please email it to brandonaddeo@tandemnetwork.com. Columns should be 500-750 words and include the writer's headshot, or other photo.