The Accident

 

*Disclaimer*

I apologize for any wonky sentences, poor spelling, or for being simply unintelligible. I still struggle with sentence structures and how to properly organize my thoughts. I am mainly writing this blog to promote safe riding (helmets and proper tack) and to help with my healing process.


 I've been on the back of a horse since I was 11 months old. Literally! Since then, my love has continued to grow over the course of twenty-two years. I've had my fair share "bad" learning experiences... But, since the very beginning, I've always been taught to get right back in the saddle.


I have owned my second horse, Shyanne, for nearly 12 years now. We've experienced and learned so much together and we have always willingly put immense trust into one another. Despite both of our experience; a sudden act of thoughtlessness lead into a quick disaster.

On February 14th 2015, I was involved in a careless accident (aren't most?) that lead me straight into the ICU for 5 days. Completely shaken and in immeasurable pain-- I was informed that I may have had to undergo emergency surgery due to a brain hemorrhage. (subdural hematoma)

My mind had completely shut down, and I desperately tried to cling-on to my fleeting thoughts. Looking back, I cannot even count the endless supply of staff that were constantly flowing in and out of my hospital room. The questioning and interrogating felt nearly endless..

"What can you remember?"
"Did you black out after the fall?"
"Do you know where you are?"


Thankfully, I had to only be monitored during my stay at the hospital, and in the end I didn't have to go through with any surgery. Just lots of morphine, ice packs, and the readjusting of my dislocated shoulder.
During my stay, I was constantly reminded of the severity of my situation because I was unable to walk or do much of anything on my own. I thank God for the wonderful team of nurses that took such great care of me. Their constant reassurance that everything would be O.K is honestly what kept me from having a complete meltdown.

My primary doctor and neurosurgeon prepared me for the year-long recovery that I would, and still have in store. From the unwaning mood swings... to the memory loss, constant headaches and inability to communicate properly... I then realized that my year was definitely going to be a long one.

Looking back now, I am so grateful that it wasn't *as serious* as it could have been. My neurosurgeon told me that if I would have hit just a smidge harder, I could very well be paralyzed.
The only thing I truly regret is also knowing the fact that wearing a helmet could have also saved me from so much grief.