Annie - sorry to hear about your accident. Sounds horrible!

Very glad to hear you're ok but how did you bike come off? Also, don't want to be an old fuss and I'm sure you will, but make sure you replace your before you ride again. Even a small knock can reduce it's effectiveness. Some companies like Giro like you to send them to them so they can study how they stood up.

Anyway, road rash - a cycling friend of mine recommended trying Preparation H. I don't know if you have it in the US but over here its... wait for it... haemoroid(sp) or piles cream!!! Sound ick - but apparently it worked well - good for healing the skin etc.

Also he advised trying to keep it soft and supple so you don't get scabs which with the best will in the world, are just too tempting to pick.

Good thinking to get plenty of visits to the doc to check on the progress

Hope it heals up quickly...