We all know as cyclists, the caution of riding across railway tracks. We all know that at some stage in our lives, the tracks will get the best of each of us. After road riding for 10 years, it was my turn for the tracks to win!
I was out for a very easy spin a few days ago, and well, I think that was the problem. I was in relax mode and super slow mode. Hitting the wet rutted out tracks in Brackendale (yes you all know the ones if you are a local), took me down. To be honest it was a pretty lame fall. Got up, broke my derailleur hanger and was pissed as I just wanted to ride. Bit of a sore knee, shoulder, hip. Rolled into Republic to get a temp hanger to get me home.
No big deal one would think. Well that was until the headaches started and the next day the severe head and neck pain and then the vomiting started and then I couldn't even sit or stand or hold my head up.
My first case of concussion and whiplash. At ER in Squamish, then sent for CT Scans in Whistler. I have to say that was the most painful experience I have ever had, honestly, the passenger drive up to Whistler and back, I couldn't move or open my eyes or stop the pain. Brutal.
So I am now at home laying on the couch. I sit here writing this with an unknown few days, few weeks, few months ahead. I can't shower, make food, go to the washroom without excruciating pain.
Maybe this will all just clear up and I will be back on the bike next week, or maybe it could be a few months. The only way to keep sane is to take everyday as it comes and be thankful that CT scan was all clear and there is no brain or spinal damage. It makes you realize how much we take for granted. I think sometimes the unknown helps give us faith. If someone were to tell me right now that I wouldn't be getting back on my bike for 2 months, then I would be demoralized. But if each day I have hope and positive thoughts that I could wake up with improvements the next day, then that is how we keep ourselves moving forward.
My word of advice that we all really know anyway - Never cross wet railway tracks without some agression and alertness because at some stage in your life they will get you!!
