(Reprinted from the Grand Rapids Press) At the age of 24, Keith Knuth suffered a traumatic brain injury that significantly affected his mobility and left him dependent on a wheelchair.
Like many Michigan residents, Knuth was an avid hunter and all around sportsman prior to his accident, but his injuries made him wonder whether he would ever pursue his hobby again.
Six months into his rehabilitation, Knuth was introduced to
Scott Fletcher and the Outdoor Recreation Program at Hope Network. The program offers people who have limitations after severe accident or injury an opportunity to relearn skills that will allow them to continue participating in outdoor activities.
A Surprising Request
“I began my career back in 1993 working in the residential setting with people who have brain injuries,” Fletcher said. “I’d often ask them, ‘What can we give back to you now that you’re here?’. I was astounded by how many indicated that they wanted to go hunting or fishing again.”
Sharing these individuals’ passion for the great outdoors, Fletcher eventually combined his desire to help with Hope Network’s Therapeutic Recreation Department to create a new level of rehabilitation.
“In Michigan, your hunting license isn’t revoked if you are in a severe accident. But physical and cognitive impairments can present safety risks, so it’s important that people be re-assessed to determine if they are ready to use a firearm or bow,” he said. “If an assessment reveals they have areas of concern, then it’s my responsibility to make sure that those issues are addressed.”
“I use a variety of different strategies that enable people, even those with more severe limitations, to have the ability to hunt again.”
Using a table that swivels and moves up and down, Fletcher was able to accommodate Knuth’s inability to hold a firearm steady.
Regaining Mobility
A specially-equipped golf cart provides Knuth mobility on the trails. Last year, Knuth killed his first deer since his accident.
“Individuals who have participated in the Outdoor Recreation Program with Scott have shown marked improvement,” says Mara Fenton, Affiliate Coordinator for Hope Network’s Therapeutic Recreation Program. “Through evaluations and follow-up we’ve determined that people find improved adjustment to life post-injury once being able to participate in activities that they find meaningful.”
New Hope
“After my accident, I was wondering why did this happen to me? Will I ever get back into the woods again?” Knuth said. “Getting back out into the woods has brought so much more hope in my life.”
“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told, ‘this is the best day I’ve had in years since my accident,” Fletcher said.
“Even if we don’t harvest an animal, just being outside doing what they love makes a significant impact in their overall outlook.”
Fletcher’s expertise goes beyond deer hunting. He also provides assessment for fishing, archery, mushrooming, hiking, geo-caching, and operating watercraft.
“I think about myself, and what would I do if I were in their situation?” Fletcher said. “ What if I couldn’t go hunting or fishing again? It’s what drives me to do this. I see a little of myself in each of the people I work with.”