Kajero,

Hang in there. I was involved in a serious accident a couple of years ago and shattered the front fork of my new Orbea Diva (the bike was deemed a total loss). Like you I have great health insurance and fortunately my bike was fully insured. Though I did not miss two weeks of work I was out for a few days and had a hard time while at work (the after effects of my concussion). I too had a great circle of friends and my DH was equally supportive and encouraging. When I did get back on my bike (the one I rode in college) I was a bit jumpy at first but once I passed the place where I crashed and nothing bad happened to me I relaxed and enjoyed my short ride. I did replace my Diva with another Diva and have never looked back. The helmet I worn, the one that saved my life, sits in my home as a reminder and each time I pass it I send words of thanks skyward as I know how lucky I was on that terrible day.

I can't say I ever had any feelings of guilt about my bike as I knew I would replace it once I healed completely. I never had any guilty thoughts about my wonderful insurance as that is why I pay the premiums. I took back on my crash as learning experience - about bike handling, about how I react in an emergency, about the kindness of strangers, the love of my husband and the power of my faith.

As for giving up riding that is solely your call. Maybe you need to ask yourself how much you valued and enjoyed your time on your bike prior to your accident. When you ride are you at peace, does it clear your head, relieve stress, bring you joy? Remember, fear can be a powerful friend or a powerful foe - you have to decide how you want to channel your fears. If you quite riding how will you feel about yourself? Maybe you just need some time for your body and spirit to heal before you make any big decisions.

Heal quickly!