Near death experience.. now what?

[DeniseGoldberg]

Suze -
I'm glad you're feeling well enough to share your story with us. First, let me add my healing wishes to everyone else's.

As to returning to cycling, only you can make that decision. It sounds like it is a good part of your life, and from your description of your cycling friend's reactions, it sounds like you have a good support system too. I may have been a little luckier than you in that I have no idea what caused my crash (almost) two years ago. My most serious injury was a severe brain injury - in addition to a skull fracture, pelvic fracture, and... I assume that my memory loss was due to the brain injury.That may have made it easier for me to get back on my bike, although I have to admit that on my first ride I had to ride over the same territory to see if I could figure out what caused my bike to flip over (and me to land on my head). But this isn't about me - it's about you recovering and getting back on your bike.

First, I'm assuming that you want to ride or you probably wouldn't have posted looking for suggestions from women cyclists. And I assume that it will be a while before you get an ok to get back on your bike if you have a broken pelvis. When you are ready to ride, find someplace that makes you comfortable for your first ride. It could be a bike path, or it could be the road. Where ever it is, give yourself the time and the space to feel safe.

I had stopped riding in / with large groups well before my crash. I'm somewhat of a loner, although I do ride with other folks some of the time. But small groups only... I am not comfortable if I can't see the road (and what's on it...) ahead of me. But that said, accidents do happen. They happen in cars, walking, biking - and I hope that you are able to get past your fear and work towards getting back on your bike.

If you think it would help to talk, send me a private message and I'll send you my phone number.

--- Denise