And in the blink of an eye
my life changed FOREVER....
June 12, 2022 a hit-and-run accident changed my life. This page document and shares my journey toward recovery, redemption, and a new life.
"The race is not given to the swift or to the strong, but to the one who endures to the end."~ Ecclesiastes 9:11
LIFE BEFORE THE ACCIDENT
Prior to the accident, life was great. Six months before the accident I relocated to Memphis from Detroit as ABC 24's newest Senior Morning Producer. Six days before the accident I bought a new car. I was getting to know the amazing city and all it had to offer a single and adventurous young woman. I quickly went from chasing and telling stories, as a news producer, to becoming one myself.
THE ACCIDENT
Just 25 days before my 31st birthday a horrible and near fatal accident changed my life. A hit-and-run driver, sideswiped my vehicle. The impact caused my car to crash into the concrete median on a busy Memphis highway. The car accident caused multiple broken bones. Both of my ankles were crushed, I had a broken rib, a broken shoulder, a cracked tooth, and numerous fractures. I underwent three surgeries and stayed a total of 16 days in the hospital.
I was released from the hospital on June 28, 2022. I remember the day the ambulance team carried me upstairs in in a makeshift body bag. My legs fresh out of surgery and cast wrapped for protection. I could not walk. My new normal became countless pain medications, a bedside toilet, and wheelchair I struggled and hated using.
My intimate moments were thrust into the public eye. My independence snatched! I needed people to survive day to day.
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Thankfully, I had my mom, family, friends, and colleagues by my side. They were ready to help me adjust and supported me on my journey to recovery. From countless doctor appointments, trips to the ER and painful physical therapy, and lots of relearning what I once did without having to think about it.
Here are two articles that you can read about my accident: Article #1 & Article #2
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ME AND MY WHEELCHAIR
MILESTONE HIGHLIGHTS
June 6, 2022
June 12, 2022
June 13, 2022
June 16, 2022
June 21, 2022
June 28, 2022
July 7, 2022
September 9, 2022
September 19, 2022
November 30, 2022
January 11, 2023
February 4, 2023
April 10, 2023
Purchased a new car
The accident happened
1st surgery at Regional One Trauma Center
2nd surgery
3rd surgery
Released from hospital.
31st Birthday
Took first steps
Diagnosed by Mental Health Therapist with depression, anxiety and beginning stages of PTSD
Switched from Ortho Boot to real shoes
Ditched wheel chair and walker for a cane
First time out with friends since accident
Cleared to walk without cane unless needed
LIFE AFTER THE ACCIDENT
With my new found perspective the accident it was the best thing that could have happened to me.
Ever heard the bible verse "The race is not given to the swift or to the strong, but to the one who endures to the end."~ Ecclesiastes 9:11? This is a verse that is dear to me and sums up my journey perfectly. I've had to learn to learn how to walk again, regain muscles and muscle strength, all while overcoming the trauma of nearly dying. After being bound to a wheel chair for months I was finally able to take my first step on September 9, 2022, and for the most part I am able to get around and drive without assistance.
My life since the accident has pushed my endurance and spirit to heights. It gave me a testimony that needs to be shared. Reality smacked me square in the face and and my scars remind me that we're all on borrowed time so just go for it. I know I am. If crashing into a concrete wall didn't kill me with the grace of God nothing can!
During my recovery, I was led to re-launch my podcast Amythe7th. The goal of my podcast is to give motivation, inspiration , and hope to the world as I share the story and experience the stories of those who share how they handle their tragedies, setbacks, disappointments, and problems with charm and grace.
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