Man Saves $20 on Mower Repair, Accidentally Pays in Fingers
A man trying to save $20 by sharpening his lawnmower blade loses two fingers after missing some details in a YouTube video. A cautionary tale for DIY enthusiasts.
Springfield, IL—Determined to avoid a $20 repair fee, local man Mike Jenkins enrolled in YouTube University last weekend to learn how to sharpen his electric lawnmower blade. “It’ll be fun—I already have the file. It’s so easy,” he reportedly said literally moments before demonstrating that it was not.
After setting up his iPad on a garage workbench, Jenkins laid down a tarp and flipped the mower over, confidently following along with the video’s step-by-step instructions, for about 2 minutes. Growing impatient, he skipped ahead. “I think he did a good job—the finished side looked very sharp,” said neighbor Sally Thompson, who confirmed the other side “was still in progress when things got ugly.”
Mid-sharpen, a slight bump triggered the power switch, instantly activating the freshly honed blade.
Jenkins described hearing “a quick metallic whir and a horrifying snick,” followed by an involuntary outburst of language that “suggested things had taken a turn.” Paramedics later confirmed Mike lost two fingers in what they called “a completely avoidable $20 decision.”
“Never underestimate a spinning blade.” – Phil Reynolds, Mowtivators Repair Shop
Unfortunately, Jenkins had fast-forwarded past an important safety tip: removing the battery. From his hospital bed, Mike remained reflective. “In hindsight, I probably should’ve watched the whole video,” he admitted. “Though I am glad I put that tarp down.” Dr. Emily Cartwright of Springfield General Hospital quipped, “Probably not the best way to meet an insurance deductible. It’s amazing how quickly a $20 savings can turn into a hospital bill.”
“It’s amazing how quickly a $20 savings can turn into a hospital bill.” – Dr. Emily Cartwright
Local repairman Phil Reynolds offered a simpler takeaway: “This happens every year. Lawn mowers are dangerous—that’s why I offer blade sharpening for only $20. It’s my way of giving back to the community.” Reynolds then added, “Step one is always take the battery out. Step two is call me.”
The lesson is simple: YouTube tutorials might save you few bucks, but a professional with experience is worth an arm and a leg, or maybe… a few fingers.
After setting up his iPad on a garage workbench, Jenkins laid down a tarp and flipped the mower over, confidently following along with the video’s step-by-step instructions, for about 2 minutes. Growing impatient, he skipped ahead. “I think he did a good job—the finished side looked very sharp,” said neighbor Sally Thompson, who confirmed the other side “was still in progress when things got ugly.”
Mid-sharpen, a slight bump triggered the power switch, instantly activating the freshly honed blade.
Jenkins described hearing “a quick metallic whir and a horrifying snick,” followed by an involuntary outburst of language that “suggested things had taken a turn.” Paramedics later confirmed Mike lost two fingers in what they called “a completely avoidable $20 decision.”
“Never underestimate a spinning blade.” – Phil Reynolds, Mowtivators Repair Shop
Unfortunately, Jenkins had fast-forwarded past an important safety tip: removing the battery. From his hospital bed, Mike remained reflective. “In hindsight, I probably should’ve watched the whole video,” he admitted. “Though I am glad I put that tarp down.” Dr. Emily Cartwright of Springfield General Hospital quipped, “Probably not the best way to meet an insurance deductible. It’s amazing how quickly a $20 savings can turn into a hospital bill.”
“It’s amazing how quickly a $20 savings can turn into a hospital bill.” – Dr. Emily Cartwright
Local repairman Phil Reynolds offered a simpler takeaway: “This happens every year. Lawn mowers are dangerous—that’s why I offer blade sharpening for only $20. It’s my way of giving back to the community.” Reynolds then added, “Step one is always take the battery out. Step two is call me.”
The lesson is simple: YouTube tutorials might save you few bucks, but a professional with experience is worth an arm and a leg, or maybe… a few fingers.
