In 1998 I had a series of surgeries called tendon transfers for people with cervical level spinal cord injuries. As a C6-7 quadriplegic, I had no use of my hands. The four surgeries gave me a pinch in each thumb, the ability to grasp with my left hand and a tricep on my right arm.

Why do I take the time to wrap gifts each Christmas? It gives me time to be thankful for the gift of Dr. John Shaw, who gave me increased hand function and independence through tendon transfers after my spinal cord injury. (Watch this video for my review of an easy wrapping paper cutter.)

To see other examples of how tendon transfers affect my ability to cook, watch Quadly Cooking: Cheeseburger Soup and Quadly Cooking: Coconut Curry Lime Chicken.