My occupational therapist (OT) wife thinks he will be able to paddle. A small loom makes sense to her. If he has trouble he could consult at a rehab center or
hand clinic. A larger kayak store may have a line on programs to help handcapped people participate through an adaptive sports foundation. He may need to get a laminated paddle to maintain strength with the small loom. If he is near mid-michigan, I could let him try one of my paddles.

: Hello everyone,
: I have been asked by one of my friends to ask a question on
: building/paddling forums:

: Q: Will the lack of a left thumb affect ability to paddle with a
: Greenland paddle?

: Some background:
: My friend and paddling partner, who exclusively uses Greenland
: paddles with his handmade kayaks (Merganser, Outer Island), was
: working in his yard on a project when the power saw hit
: something in the wood, jumped and cut off his LEFT thumb, just
: above the knuckle at the base of the thumb. He has a small knob
: remaining and is concerned this will affect his paddling
: ability.

: Any answers appreciated and I will forward all replies to him over
: the next few days.

: Thanks!