In case you break your back...
I often have been innerly conflicted to share the story of the accident that changed my life. I don't want to put fear in the hearts of my fellow mountain biker ladies or students. I don't want people to feel bad for me, because this is just a small part of my life, it's not who I am. But for anyone out there that has gone through a major injury, illness or surgery (or even pregnancy or depression), that took your life away and kept you off your bike and perhaps left you with permanent "scars", I hope my story can help you stay sunny and avoid blue :-)
6 years ago I found myself lying in the Santa Cruz loam with no feeling in my feet and the worst pain I had ever felt in my life... in my back. Once my riding friends calmed me down I felt the feeling come back and as I slipped into shock my pain subsided a bit too. Being a stubborn and frugal mountain biker, I begged my friends to just carry me out and drive me to urgent care...
Lesson #1 Never move someone that may have a back or neck injury (or any took a big fall) unless there is no possible way to keep them safe where they lie (burning car, volcano, zombies?) link to American Red Cross
After much pleading, one of the guys we were shuttling with began to lift me and the pain that I felt caused me to immediately submit to a 911 phone call. I surrender!
I am really lucky that my attempts to get a free ride to the hospital didn't leave me paralyzed or cause more nerve damage than I already had.
#2 Its going to hurt like no other, pick your poison
I kept denying the pain relief that was being offered... But as hour 8 rolled by I needed something, anything really. I felt guilty for taking opiates and I definitely had a hard time coming off them, but I feel in those first weeks in the hospital, the couple of hours of "sleep" those drugs allowed me were totally necessary to begin the healing. Your body needs to rest to heal. Ask your doctor what the options for pain management are and their side effects.
Opiate pain killers are hard on your organs, guaranteed to make you constipated, and can also alter your personality. When it is safe to do so, get off the chemical drugs, detox, and switch to healthier options.
There are many diets to reduce pain and alternative methods to feel better without pharmacuetical pain killers. Traditional Chinese Medicine, Massage, and Meditation are all good ways to manage pain without poisoning your body.
Feel free to send me a private email if you'd like some suggestions/advice. I'm not a doctor, but will gladly share what works for me.
#3 swallow your pride and let people help you
Before the accident, my pride kept me from asking for or accepting help. In school, in my bank account, to reach that plate way up theeeere... But being pretty much helpless broke me of that habit real quick for a bit.
In the beginning I needed help bathing, brushing my hair and even going to the bathroom. I couldn't lift anything let alone bend over or even twist to the side. I couldn't work or pay my bills for months. If I didn't have (and accept) support from my family and friends I would have died of starvation, sadness and yes a dirty hinny. Let people help you when you are really down. Smiles and laughs do loads for healing. Which brings us to...
#4 Stay positive & present
Above all, keep a positive outlook no matter how bad your situation. Surround yourself with positive friends and give the negative ones a break for a bit
If you are reading this you are ALIVE, how lucky is that. It is normal to be sad and mourn the loss of a limb, feeling in your body, ability to perform like you used to, but it could always be worse. Be grateful you are ALIVE.
#5 Somedays will be HARD, but never give up
It doesn't matter how extensive your injuries are, or how long it's been. Somedays you will feel like absolute sh*t and want to quit. Don't. You CAN do all that you desire. Accept your situation, learn to adapt, evolve, and grow. Be around positive and encouraging friends that won't put limits or expectations on your "abilities" and will love you for being you just the way you are.
# LOVE yourself
Before you can love anyone or anything else, you must truly love yourself. Disabled or abled, a little defective or imperfect. Love yourself completely. What you see as flaws are important parts that create a unique you! Own your scars, chipped teach, inability to walk without a limp or what-have you. Be proud of yourself for getting through your situation. Acknowledge your strengths and don't focus on your weaknesses.
# Keep up the good work!
Depending what happened to you, you might forget this little incident in a month or so, or have a lifetime of challenges to face from it.
Keep working on it. Do your physical therapy as instructed. Eat healthy and stay happy. Take care of your body the best you can. Research your ailment (from a reliable source of course) and learn tactics to improve your condition.
