Second Opinion: Spinal Cord Injury on WXXI-TV/HD

Pictured: Dr. Brad Berk on set with his wife Mary.

Credit: WXXI

WXXI's national health care series Second Opinion tells two personal stories about devastating spinal cord injuries.

Dr. Brad Berk, the CEO of the University of Rochester Medical Center shares the story of the bicycle accident that left him in a wheelchair, and Charlie Durkee also joins in the conversation, as he shares the trials he has faced since his accident which left him paralyzed at the age of 22. Second Opinion: Spinal Cord Injury airs Wednesday, January 19 at 3 p.m. on WXXI-TV/HD (DT21.1/cable 1011 and 11).

Each year, more than 11,000 Americans will experience a similar injury, often causing permanent disability or paralysis.  Advances in research may someday make the repair of spinal cord injuries possible, but current treatments and rehabilitation allow many people to lead productive, independent lives.

Dr. Berk joins panelists Dr. David Chen, Medical Director of the Spinal Cord Injury Program at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago and Dr. Paul Maurer, a neurosurgeon at the University of Rochester Medical Center, to discuss his accident and treatment. Mary Berk MSW, Dr. Berk's wife, joins him on set to share her experiences since his accident, including how it has affected their lives. She offers firsthand advice to families undergoing similar challenges. Patient panelist Charlie Durkee also joins in the conversation, as he shares his story along with his great sense of humor and outlook on life.

Second Opinion is seen on more than 250 public television stations across the country. It is produced by WXXI, the University of Rochester Medical Center and West 175 Productions. Second Opinion is made possible in part by support from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), which has been the major funder since the series’ inception in 2004.

Please note: A half hour version of this program airs January 22 at 3 p.m., and again on sunday, January 23 at 1:30 p.m.