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Old 07-18-2014, 10:05 AM
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Lightrail11 Lightrail11 is offline
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Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Phoenix AZ
Posts: 531
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Lightrail11 Lightrail11 is offline
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Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Phoenix AZ
Posts: 531
10 yr Member
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Quote:
Originally Posted by willgardner View Post
Let's talk about the silver linings.

How did the injury changed your paradigm, your perspective, your values, your character?
To frame this, I'll first quote my neurosurgeon, who on my follow up appointment after release from the hospital told me: "I consider you my miracle patient. I didn't tell your family this the night of the accident, but I didn't think you were going to make it"

I have a much more profound appreciation for life, while at the same time no longer have a fear of death.

My relationship with my spouse and erstwhile caregiver has grown deeper. I have learned it's OK to depend on and accept loving care from her and others.

Friends who visited me during my hospital stay and after showed me how much people really care for others.

I appreciate the power of prayer. I believe that without the prayers, heartfelt concern, and kindness of friends and family my neurosurgeon's initial fears would have been the outcome. Instead I can more forward and enjoy life.

Prayers for peace to all of you.

__________________
What Happened: On November 29, 2010, I was walking across the street and was hit by a light rail commuter train. Result was a severe traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures (skull, pelvis, ribs). Total hospital stay was two months, one in ICU followed by an additional month in neuro-rehab. Upon hospital discharge, neurological testing revealed deficits in short term memory, executive functioning, and spatial recognition.

Today: Neuropsychological examination five months post-accident indicated a return to normal cognitive functioning, and I returned to work approximately 6 months after the accident. I am grateful to be alive and am looking forward to enjoying the rest of my life.
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"Thanks for this!" says:
Mokey (07-19-2014), music-in-me (07-18-2014), willgardner (07-19-2014)