Figure 1: Scanned November, 24

On Wednesday, November 4, 1998, Frognot drummer, April Samuels, had Carpal Tunnel and Digital Nerve surgery - each a result of drumming. April has no recollection of the surgery; even though Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Earl Lund, said she would be awake for the operation. The experience lasted one and a half hours and left the drummer with a huge heavy cast. This cast was removed on Thursday, November 12, revealing a "Frankenstein"-ish hand. Approximately 20 stitches were removed (with out numbing the area), hydrogen peroxide was applied, and a new smaller cast was fitted. During the time of the smaller cast, April began slowly moving her swollen fingers, however, could never conquer more than half mast. On Tuesday, November 24, the smaller cast was detached to expose a still mangled hand (Figure 1). The stiffness in her hand caused Dr. Lund to begin to doubt her return to drumming in January; therapy started immediately.

Figure 2: Scanned December, 1

Within a week, April was able to straighten her fingers completely and much of the swelling was lost. Dead skin has separated itself and now her scars on her hand only look dry, tender, and pink (Figure 2). Continuing therapy and still experiencing pain in her wrist, she is adamant to continue her exercises at every chance - destined to make her goal to drum by the first month of the year. Now the drummer is computing normally with pain and will continue therapy until she returns to the Orthopedic Surgeon on December 15 for the latest prognosis.