Real People...Real Stories

Gerry is not only a long-time patient of BioMetrics, he is also a great ambassador for what we do and the amazing upper extremity prosthetics that are available today.

While serving in the US Military in both the Middle East and Viet Nam, Gerry received extensive training in utility work. After leaving the military, he went on to work for Northeast Utilities for 32 years as a high voltage lineman.

A few years ago while working with a high voltage line, Gerry had a life altering experience when he accidentally backed into a live primary switch. As a result, about 5,000 volts of electric went through his shoulder and exited out his left hand. He was burned so severely they had to perform an amputation to preserve as much of his arm as possible.

As anyone that knows him can attest, Gerry is a social fellow who enjoys visiting family in Florida and fishing with his buddies. If he blames “the one that got away” on his prosthesis, we haven’t heard about it.

Since Gerry received his prosthesis he has acted informally as an educator to both the general public and health care professionals who may not have a lot of experience working directly with an upper body prosthetic.

Using an upper extremity prosthetic takes a lot of practice. Gerry has mastered controlling his hand and wrist and is proud to say that he can pick up a pin on a table better with his left hand than with his right. Gerry got back the horse after his accident and still dabbles with electricity stripping a wire with his right hand while holding the wires in his left.

At BioMetrics, we appreciate Gerry’s spirit and enthusiasm towards educating people about his upper extremity prosthesis. He is another great example of results that are possible from the successful merging of technology, commitment, and a positive outlook.