[mdiane630]

On May 18, 2013, I completed the Ironman Texas triathlon for the 2nd time. 3 weeks later I was out on an easy ride and collided with a car whose driver pulled out in front of me - she stopped at a stop sign, and she just never saw me on the main road. We were in my neighborhood with no traffic, it was broad daylight, I had on bright clothes and a red/silver helmet. She pulled all the way across and I hit her at 17 mph. I tried to turn alongside her and got my front wheel turned, then I fishtailed and took most of the impact with my left side, then fell back and landed on my back/right side. I sat for a while and eventually was able to get up. There was no "road rash" or blood, broken bones, or anything, and I was counting my blessings because I was able to walk away with a few bruises, a sore neck and shoulder, and a headache. I refused medical treatment because I figured I'd be more sore in a day or two. I don't remember hitting my head very hard (note - not remembering something in this case doesn't mean much!!). The first Dr I saw (the next morning) told me I could resume normal activities, so I tried. I was doing PT for my shoulder/neck and the PT kept insisting that I had a concussion. I was finally tested ~3 months in (Impact and "paper and pencil" testing with a concussion specialist) and backed off all activities. My PT then noticed that my eyes were not tracking properly. I've been seeing a vestibular/neuro rehab specialist since January and progress is amazingly, frustratingly slow. The new Tri season is starting, but I'm still working to be able to turn my head from side to side without getting nauseous. I'm blessed that once I was diagnosed properly, I was able to get into an awesome treatment program, but sometimes it's hard to count my blessings. I do ok moving forward and don't have any trouble driving (thank God!), and I'm hanging on at work by bringing stuff home because I don't want my boss to see how much this is affecting me. I take naps at lunch time and try to get enough sleep. Sorry this is getting so long, it's nice to have people to "talk" to who understand! I was accused recently of faking it by a lady at work (luckily not someone I have to work with directly). I'm looking forward to scrolling through this site and learning as much as I can.

Diane

[Lara]

Hi Diane,
Welcome to the NeuroTalk Support Groups!

I'm sorry to read about your terrible accident.

I'm sure you'll find lots of information and support on our Traumatic Brain Injury and Post Concussion Syndrome Forum

All the best to you with your treatment.

[Darlene]

Diane,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please, just let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Sad to hear abour your accident, Lara gave you a great place to check out, you will find some great assistance from caring friends.

Please keep us up to date on your situation. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene