Seth Apel Receives ‘Patients of Courage’ Award in Florida

| October 12, 2017

Seth Apel 1ORLANDO, Florida (EYT) – Seth Apel, the Knox teenager whose arm was severed and reattached by doctors at Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh, was honored recently in Orlando, Florida.

Apel was honored by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons on October 6 when he was recognized as one of three recipients of the “Patients of Courage” award.

Apel was nominated for the award by Dr. Lorelei Grunwaldt.

It was nearly two years ago when Apel lost his right arm in an accident while he and his family were hauling firewood. Apel was taken by helicopter to UPMC Children’s Hospital where pediatric plastic surgeon Dr. Grunwaldt reattached his arm.

Since undergoing the 8-hour surgery, Apel has been able to resume playing Little League baseball, as he has learned how to catch and throw a baseball with his left hand.

Although Apel, who is now 14, has regained movement in his right shoulder and elbow, he still can’t use his right hand. He will have another surgery on November 7 at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in an effort to restore more function. The surgery is scheduled for two years to the day after the accident.

According to a published article on triblive.com, in a letter to Seth and his family, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons called his story “inspiring.”

“The grace, focus, and faith he has exhibited throughout his treatment and continued recovery is a testament to his strength of character and determination,” the letter continued. “He’s a remarkable young man.”

The award ceremony was part of a busy fall for Apel, who is going on an elk hunt in Oregon later this month through the Camo Cares event that is held locally.


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