Since my ACL injury and surgery, I seem to take more notice to people on the street who use canes, crutches, wheelchairs, etc. as well as zero in on stories of those who have had heart-wrenching sports-related accidents. These athletes have seen their lives change from being one where the things they did drew crowds of fans and admirers to one where wiggling a toe or lifting a hand is a great feat. As I continue my PT and rehab and wait months and months to get back to normal activities, they may have to will wait years and years, and maybe not ever, to gain back what they once had. When I read these stories, I am in awe of and have respect for them as they continue onwards after such horrific accidents and persevere with a determination that is truly amazing.
One such person is Stephen Murray, a top professional bicycle motocross rider, who was paralyzed in a crash during the opening event of the AST Dew Tour's 2007 season. It is considered the worst accident ever in BMX, a crash so severe that many witnesses still decline to talk about it. During his last run, Murray landed on his head and hyperextended his neck upon impact. He had crushed the C3, C4 and C5 vertebrae in his neck. Doctors inserted 16 screws and three titanium plates to stabilize his spine during two seven-hour surgeries. Murray, one year since the accident, can now move muscles in his arms and his legs and he will see usable improvement in muscle function that will change his quality of life. Murray does not dwell on what happened or express any bitterness. The accident, he says, is his reality. No use in trying to escape it. Read the full story in The Washington Post.
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