It happened on October 28th 1997. A horse riding accident left me a paraplegic
at the T12 - L1 level. I also broke my arm, collarbone and shoulder and had
many broken ribs resulting in two collapsed lungs. I spent a week in ICU and
then two months doing inpatient therapy and three months doing outpatient
therapy. I had to wear a body brace for three months to support my back. I
have six steel rods in my back, a rod in my arm and a plate and six screws on
my collarbone.
While I was still doing inpatient therapy a fund raiser was
held which I was able to attend. Just under $10 000 was raised to pay for
outstanding medical bills and equipment I would need.
Despite what the doctors
have said I have regained a lot of sensation in my legs and have made other
improvements. My car is being adapted this month so I can drive and I am
getting leg braces so I can walk with crutches. My long term goal is to become
a riding instructor and help other disabled people.