A few details,,, I was dead (maybe not technically, nobody got a flat EEG as far as I know) no breathing, pulse, pupil response when the EMTs got to me. They resuscitated me on the road. From that point I had tubes in my throat for the ride to New Milford Hospital, LifeStar to Hartford and through Tuesday when I was transferred from ICU to "step down" in Hartford and the tubes came out.
All of the above is second hand of course. I don't recall anything. My memory from late Saturday to the the hospital step down unit Tuesday afternoon is completely blank.
What I have noticed different and don't know yet if it will change...
- I have a lisp (most likely result of 3 skull fractures I'm told I suffered)
- Can't close mouth all the way, water leaks when I drink from a glass, fun at kids parties (again skull fractures probably)
- Teeth on top of mouth, right hand side, don't seem to fit in place any more (blame the skull fractures again)
- Something in my back cracks when I inhale and exhale (told I got two cracked vertebra too)
- Right eye doesn't close all the way
- Can't close my right hand all the way
...other things but thats a good starting list
Believe helmet was definitely a life saver. Will post a picture of the damaged article when I get the chance. If as much stuff came off my head as ground off the helmet there would be a quarter inch or more of grey matter spread on the road.
Wish I knew what happened. Want to go back to the spot and see if it stirs any memories. Have done lots of riding (tens of thousands of miles) without any incidents. I'd recently maintained the bike and ridden a few hundred miles on the maintenance with no issues noted.
Knew the EMT who resuscitated me. He didn't recognize me because of the blood and swelling. Haven't spoken to him in person yet but second hand reports from people who have say he said a 911 call came in from folks who wouldn't identify themselves and wouldn't stay around for help to arrive. Maybe nothing, maybe something. Regardless I'll probably never know unless memory magically comes back at some point.
Typings very tough. Won't be getting wads of content out. Probably not even after typing is easier since talking to the wind isn't my usual thing.
Anyway, all you bikers out there, ride careful, keep the rubber side down, wear your helmets. Friends and family - I will be back on the bike! !
I couldn't resist checking on your blog to see if you were ok. Glad to see you still have your sense of humor.
ReplyDeleteGet well soon
Kelsey
Ok, so let's pretend I am taking an early lunch since it is only 11:13am. This was very difficult to read, but I am glad you are joking and doing better. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family constantly. Please let us know what we can do for you.
ReplyDeleteP.S. Don't worry about the shop, we will keep it running and up to your standards as always.
Leslie :)
Wow!! I am sorry to hear about your accident! I can't believe you want to get on a bike again, I am ready to give mine away after reading your story. How about taking up tennis? It is a lot of fun and it is a sport you can still play when you retire.
ReplyDeleteMy sister was in a bad motorcycle accident 2 years ago, she is better... well, I'll leave it at that.
I hope you recover soon. In the meantime, take care and keep laughing.
Joan
When I got your email, I thought you were going to give me a good update of Casey and your family. Sorry to hear that it wasn't that kind of news, but I'm glad I was included in this news blast anyway.
ReplyDeleteYou'll be just fine. You're a big boy and you got the right medicine--laughter. Keep it up and let me know when you're up for a bike ride. I have a bike trailer to haul all your tubes along...:):) Take care, and keep me posted.
*Juliette
Hi Alan,
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear about this and feel so bad about what you must be going through. I know you will get through it!! MB
Hi Alan, Gland to hear that you are doing better, now that you are back to using your computer. Hope your healing proceeds quickly and smoothly and that you can enjoy your stay at the Good Care and Good Food Inn on the Hudson. (We have reservations for your room in a few weeks so don't overstay your visit.) You are in our thoughts and prayers as is your family. Hello to Anne, Andrew, Connor and Daniel. Love, Aunt Judy and Uncle Bob
ReplyDeleteYou defiantly sound like your self. I am so glad you are recovering so quickly. You are strong and determined and Techiebiker will rule the terrain again.
ReplyDeleteTake care,
Natalie
Yup -- it's lunch time for me, too, Alan. You and your family have been so much on my mind since news of your accident hit CFS cyberspace. The ride of your life, huh? Quite a story -- one that I am so grateful you are around to relate to us. Take good care of yourself.
ReplyDeleteNita
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ReplyDeleteYup -- it's lunch time for me, too, Alan. You and your family have been so much on my mind since news of your accident hit CFS cyberspace. The ride of your life, huh? Quite a story -- one that I am so grateful you are around to relate to us. Take good care of yourself.
ReplyDeleteNita