Mike Roman has made an arduous journey: from dreaming of racetrack glory, to battling chronic pain and despair, to overcoming adversity. He has done this through courage, hope, support and innovation. Now, his journey brings him to Reno and Carson City to share his experience.
He will tell his story at 6 p.m. June 8 at Carson Tahoe Hospital, 1600 Medical Parkway in Carson City.
Roman had what he thought was a simple surgery to repair a torn ligament in his knee, but he contracted a severe staph infection which led to an above-the-knee amputation to save his life. Over the next 12 years, he had 38 surgeries, suffered from Phantom Limb Pain, became dependent on large doses of medication for pain, and had spasms, anxiety and depression.
He later found relief in a spinal cord stimulator and has recommitted himself to his life, his family and pursuing his childhood dreams of racing cars. He holds six land speed records and travels nationally to speak to wounded warriors, veterans, amputees and chronic pain sufferers about the importance of determination, family teamwork, setting goals and the perseverance to achieve them.
For more information, call Gabrielle Sewell at 771-2935.
