Recently (June 30) I was pleased to find in our home an item that I thought we had lost long ago ... the picture, from the Jackson (MI) newspaper, of my car from the edition of May 23, 1993 ... the day after my accident. Witnesses have deposed that another driver forced me off the highway, and when my car hit the shoulder, it tumbled, throwing me out the window and onto my head. It's kind of an eerie feeling to see my flipped Geo Metro and know that in a flash, my entire life changed then ... and also to see me being loaded onto the stretcher in the background, since I have no memories whatsoever from a few hours before the accident until I emerged from coma in late July. Since the doctor told my wife (but then fiancee) Michelle that I would not live the night, we now observe each May 22 as "Life Day," in glee at his incorrect prognosis!
4 comments:
Allen,
I thought it was a head-on collision that caused your accident.
Yo, Alvyn; I never knew there was any photographic record of the accident. I'm sure I've driven by the spot many times, never knowing. Still, as always, so glad that you're here. Next time we visit Ruth's family in Jackson, I'll remember the location and think of you, and perhaps drop you a line... glad to feel only regret for what you've lost, instead of missing you and wishing you were still with us.
I have also wondered many times, as I drive back and forth to my job in Jackson, where your accident occurred and whether I was traveling the same road. I often say a prayer for you when I am on Jackson highways. What a frightening picture that is. So glad you are still with us, and so glad to have had the opportunity to get to know you. And congratulations on your run time today - that's fabulous! Happy Independence Day, Allen - Jill
It's an eerie photo, Allen. I remember visiting you while you were still in the hospital, and I wasn't sure what the future would hold. Your will and positive attitude is admirable! My life and my running have been enriched by your courageous story.
Note bene: George Sheehan, the famous cardiologist, said that the difference between a jogger and a runner is a race entry form. Congrats on your PR!
Your friend in the long run,
Kevin
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