Armed with Attitude!!! Story, by Dick Moecia

Meet Chris Wilson from Canton, Ohio, age 29, armed with exceptional attitude. Chris lost his left arm in a work accident in November, 2005 at the age of 27. To say Chris is an optimist is an understatement. He states he is thankful it was his left arm because he is right handed. The first thought that passed through his mind right after the accident was his girlfriend of eight years, Valerie Shoenfelt, would leave him. Instead, she gave him all the support he needed at a time when he needed it most. Chris is also thankful his family was there for him including his brother Jim, who he considers to be his best friend. He believes people watch him, not because he has just one arm but because he shoots pool with one arm. This writer noticed him not because he shoots pool with one arm but because he happens to shoot pool with one arm well – and with a smile!

Chris is the consummate team player. He lost his arm on a Monday, was released from the hospital the following Friday and played pool in the Massillon Tavern Pool League the next day. His explanation; he had an obligation to the team! He remembers the day vividly. The match was at Miller’s Tavern behind Amherst Shopping Center. He lost his first game and ended the day, 2-3. Chris remembers his entire family was there again to support him. There is no shortage of bond in the Wilson family. His father, Jim, was there to watch Chris the day he was interviewed for this piece. He plays for Whitey’s teams on Saturdays in the Massillon Tavern Pool League system and on Wednesdays in the BCA League, B Division. It should come as no surprise that Chris is loyal to Whitey’s and the owner, Bob Phillips. Bob was inducted into the GCABA Hall of Fame in 2005 for his sponsorship of pool teams. Chris is currently “retired” but hopes some day to own a pizza or candy shop, ice cream stand or restaurant. He has plenty of experience. Prior to his employment with Martin Pallet, where the accident occurred, he was manager at Damon’s Ribs in Twinsburg and in North Canton.

Chris considers himself to be an average player. His friends tell him he’s actually a better player today because he has slowed down. Fiddlestix pro, Chris Szuter, gave Chris his “crutch” which he used after breaking his bridge hand several years ago. It’s basically a bridge piece weighted down on a very short stick. Also, Chris uses a bean bag to rest the shaft when near rails. He was given prosthesis but didn’t like it. He says the prosthesis is heavy and hangs down to his knees.

Chris graduated from Jackson High School in 1996. In addition to the home where he resides, he also has a rental property which he tries to maintain his self to the extent possible. When asked how he goes about with some jobs, his eyes brightened again and explained his girlfriend buys him one-handed tools whenever possible. He enjoys fishing and skiing with his boat at Salt Fork. When asked about other hobbies, again his eyes lit up as he bragged about his talent at playing video games (e.g. “Madden”). He exclaims, “People are amazed how good I can play with one hand. I don’t know how I do it – I just do it!”

What happened to Valerie, the girl he thought he would lose over two years ago? They are engaged to be married next month on March 27, 2008. GCABA wishes Chris to have a long and prosperous marriage with Valerie and many years of good play on the green felt. Armed with his attitude, rest assured he doesn’t need a helping hand!

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