Rebuilding My Life — One Weld at a Time

My name is Chris Totcky. I’m 42 years old, and I live in Houston, Texas. Two years ago, my life changed in an instant.

I was involved in a motorcycle accident that led to six surgeries and ultimately the loss of my right leg below the knee.

The physical pain was intense. The recovery was long. The emotional toll was even heavier. But I refused to let that moment define the rest of my life.

With determination, rehabilitation, and the incredible support of people around me, I got back on my feet — literally — faster than most expected. But the hardest part wasn’t learning to walk again.… It was trying to return to work.

-When Passion Meets Reality

I’m an aerospace welder by trade. Welding isn’t just my job — it’s my craft. It’s what I’ve dedicated my life to mastering. It’s something that gave me focus and purpose during my recovery.

After my accident, I started applying for positions in my field. My resume opened doors. Interviewers were excited to meet me. But when I showed up in person, something changed.

Suddenly the energy shifted.

Despite my skills, experience, and work ethic, my prosthetic seemed to speak louder than my qualifications.

That reality was discouraging — but it didn’t stop me.

Turning Setback Into Opportunity

If companies wouldn’t give me the opportunity, I decided to create my own.

Seven months ago, I started a small automotive welding shop. I poured everything I had into it — my time, my skill, my savings, and my heart.

And it’s working.

I’ve built a solid customer base and a growing reputation for quality work here in Houston. Every project reminds me that my abilities were never lost — only underestimated.

Now, I’m ready to take the next step.

The Vision: Expanding and Growing

Right now, I outsource powder coating for my projects. By bringing powder coating in-house, I can:

Keep more revenue within my business

Offer faster turnaround times

Serve more customers

Create additional local opportunities

Build long-term stability for myself and my future

Expanding my shop will allow me to grow from surviving… to truly thriving.

Why I’m Asking for Help

Starting over after losing a limb is expensive — medically, emotionally, and financially. Between surgeries, rehabilitation, prosthetics, and launching my business, resources have been stretched thin.

I’m not asking for charity. I’m asking for support in building something sustainable.. Your contribution will go directly toward equipment and setup costs needed to add powder coating services and expand my shop’s capabilities.

Every donation — no matter the size — helps me continue doing what I love and prove that a disability does not define a person’s potential.

More Than a Business

This isn’t just about welding.

It’s about resilience.

It’s about refusing to quit.

It’s about showing that setbacks can become comebacks.

If you can’t donate, sharing this page would mean the world to me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for believing in second chances.

— Chris Totcky

Houston, Texas