As the majority of Americans spent their 4th of July holiday taking in the sights of elaborate fireworks from a safe distance, there were those who chose to get more ‘hands on.’ Unfortunately, that’s when accidents happen.
One person who paid a particularly high price for his mishandling of fireworks is NFL defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul. Pierre-Paul, then with the New York Giants, infamously destroyed much of his right hand in a fireworks incident on July 4, 2015.
Although he continues to have success as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, his injuries, no doubt, had a significant impact on his career and the rest of his life.
Tuesday, Pierre-Paul posted his own, personal, public service announcement on Instagram, warning others to exercise safety when using fireworks. The image that accompanied Pierre-Paul’s post is extremely graphic – click here if you wish to view it.
Here’s the massage:
“It’s been 3yrs since my accident and I can truly say I’m very blessed and fortunate to be where I am in life. Looking at these pictures seems unreal and crazy. How your life can change in the blink of an eye. One of the greatest American traditions in celebrating 4th of July is with fireworks. Unfortunately, tomorrow someone will be injured playing with fireworks. We are celebrating the birthday of our great nation. I’m glad to still be alive to show you the outcome of what happened to me. Please don’t feel sorry for me, trust me your boy fine even with missing fingers lol. Be safe out there otherwise, this can be you.”
PHOTO: Getty Images