(Photo: Jim Haque – theobserver.com)
Jumping on a family trampoline seemed like innocent fun for Josh Piperato back in March of 2014 – until his leg got caught. Initially diagnosed by ER docs at a local hospital as a sprained ankle, the pain rapidly became disproportionately severe and he developed a fever that reached 108 degrees. Back to the hospital, the next diagnosis was compartment syndrome – a painful condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles, such as from bleeding within the muscle, builds to dangerous levels. This pressure can decrease blood flow, which prevents nourishment and oxygen from reaching nerve and muscle cells. If not treated within 6 hours, permanent muscle and/or nerve damage can occur.
During the month of April across the United States, amputee support groups, veterans, prosthetists, rehabilitation centers and those with limb loss will be participating in a number of activities in their local areas to raise awareness.
The 41st Annual Empire State Building Run-Up is the first and most famous tower race in the world, challenging runners to race up its famous 86 flights – 1,576 steps, a vertical distance of 1,050 feet. The 2018 ESBRU took place on Wednesday evening, February 7th, sponsored by Turkish Airlines and joined by the Challenged Athletes Foundation. CAF is the world leader in helping people with physical challenges lead active and healthy lifestyles and encouraging independence.
Rich Romaine was a professional carpenter, having a passion for shaping and fitting wood for functional and practical purposes. After graduating from Cedar Grove High School, he continued his education at the County College, taking classes in building and carpenter architecture. In 1991 he and his brother started their own carpentry business.