In October of 2023, I was in a Gravel Cycling Race that resulted in me crashing while going down a steep gravel hill. It had been raining all day, and several people had already crashed on this hill as the road had become as slick as a sheet of ice. As my partner waited for me at the bottom of the hill, giving me the signal to "slow down", I thought I was safe, but as soon as my bike hit the patch, it flew out sideways from under me, causing the side of my head to be the very first thing to slam into the ground. I suffered a concussion/brain injury and am still currently dealing with the issues from the crash.
Unfortunately, for many people, a concussion is NOT an injury that is healed quickly. I have been dealing with "persistent post concussion syndrome" ever since the crash. Living with non stop headaches, severe neck pain from the whiplash of my head hitting the ground, dizziness, vision issues, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, memory problems, light and noise sensitivity, depression, anxiety, fear and an overall feeling of letting my family down because I can't be my best self has been insanely overwhelming for over a year and a half now. Coming to the realization that I have to give up my favorite sport has also been extremely difficult to deal with emotionally.
I am so grateful for the medical professionals that have all helped me along the way and I can't imagine what shape I would be in if I did not have the help and support I have had. Many people going through this do not have the means to be able to afford this kind of care. I am working to raise money for those in need. Your donation helps the Brain Injury Association of Kansas and Greater Kansas City provide services and programs for individuals & their families affected by a brain injury.
