It was time… I've Hung up my Helmet!

[Vader]

On June 9 2001 I was involved in an accident while at work. The parked vehicle I was sitting in was struck by another vehicle whose driver was speeding and who only had a permit. I suffered a brain injury and was left permanently disabled. When I found that Can Am was producing the Spyder, my buddy said it lifted my spirits and I told him I would ride again. And I did. I met amazing people along the way. I participated in a ride along with members of the Road Warriors and had a great time. In 2023 I began experiencing some difficulties with my hips and it was discovered that I would need both hips replaced. I made sure to get in shape for both surgeries to make recovery easier. And last year I tried to get back to riding... but it just wasn’t meant to be.

So I made the tough decision to hang up my helmet. I had a great ride.

I ultimately made the choice to donate my 2008 GS to Wheels for Wishes, and have the proceeds go to the Hudson Valley Make a Wish Foundation. It felt fitting being that Can Am helped me feel normal again, that I pay it forward somehow. I will check back in here from time to time, and would like to thank all those who helped me along this awesome journey.

Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down…

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[Dusterdude]

Good luck to you @Vader, you're a class act

 

[Little Blue]

Sorry to have you leave this Forum. Please stay in touch with a little post up now and then. Maybe once a month!

 

[Vader]

Good luck to you @Vader, you're a class act

Thanks Duster..
After riding for close to 50 years, 40 on roads, I think I had a good run. My Dad turns 90 in June. Three out of his five kids all rode. I may be the hold out. He was happy I made the decision. I figured at 90 his opinion carries some weight.
I often say I’m the luckiest man alive. At six, I was hit by a car. Spent a while in the hospital. Was pretty messed up. My accident in 2001 was pretty bad too. But my department, my union, family, and friends have made sure that I am taken care of.
My wife and I just celebrated 34 years of marriage. We say we need to give more to those who need it most.
I appreciate your kind words, really. Means a lot

Sorry to have you leave this Forum. Please stay in touch with a little post up now and then. Maybe once a month!

Will do
Thanks

 

[Dusterdude]

You're very welcome

 

[CopperSpyder]

Vader, Hang the helmet where you can see it every once in a while; I hope things get better for you. Enjoy the things you can do, just don't stop pushing forward when you can.

 

[Vader]

Vader, Hang the helmet where you can see it every once in a while; I hope things get better for you. Enjoy the things you can do, just don't stop pushing forward when you can.

Thanks
I pride myself on moving forward. And I appreciate your kind words

 

[JayBros]

Good luck Vader, my condolences on you having to hang up the helmet. Having your hips replaced you know how much better you feel. I have 20 and 18 years, respectively on my replacements with zero problems. Your Dad's only five years older than I, and I'm shooting for at least 95. We're the adult supervision.

 

[RapidSpyder]

Maybe a little inspiration for some hopefully.

 

[pegasus1300]

Vader, it has been a pleasure to know you a have you share some of you story help on some of the Spyder problems on this Forum. I hope it is only riding part you are giving up and not your participation in Spyderlovers. We hope to hear of your experiences as you go forward Spyderless. Goodluck in all you future activities. Your input will be missed.

 

[Tango]

You made a tough decision. Had a great ride. And ended with a class act! BRAVO!