Md. Student Gets New Hand & New Lease On Life

FREDERICK COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- A tragic accident took the hand of a Maryland high school student, but a Frederick County doctor has given the young man a new hand and a new outlook on life.

Kai Jackson has more.

"I won't tell you a fib.  I won't say this is a good feeling but this is something...that will get you along in life," said Wyzhir Johnson.

Johnson's life changed Christmas Eve of 2010.

"I think about somebody looking at me when they're not even looking at me," he said.

The Wicomico County high school student cut off his hand Dec. 24 helping his uncle install carpet.

"Patience has become a big virtue to me," Johnson said.

Frederick County prosthetic expert John Jacobs made Johnson a new hand.  Now he feels better about going to the prom.

"You can be my date," Johnson said.  "I'm not perfect."

He says the most important thing to him is to inspire others dealing with adversity.

"To reach out to others that don't have this," Johnson said.  "This is possible."

Johnson attends Mardela High School in Mardela Springs.