Lessons from My Injury

This is the first article in a series about what I’ve learned along the way.

I’ve spent years as a senior caregiver, working with people who have both large and small needs. Until recently, I’d never experienced what it feels like to be the one who needs help. A serious bicycle accident changed that—and gave me a perspective I couldn’t have gained any other way.

Nearly seven months ago, I fractured my neck, broke my collarbone and scapula, and suffered a severe traumatic concussion. I lost the use of my arms and hands except for three fingers. I was weak, deeply fatigued, and had very poor balance.

For someone who has always been the helper, learning to accept help was humbling. Yet it taught me to trust caregivers of all kinds—doctors, nurses, family members, friends, therapists, and others who showed up with skill, patience, and genuine compassion.

The good news: I’m recovering remarkably well. My bones healed without surgery. I’ve relearned how to care for myself. And while I’m still healing from the concussion, I’m supported by an outstanding team that continues to guide and encourage my progress.

I learned many lessons along the way. My hope in sharing them is to offer encouragement and to give you permission to be patient with yourself. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or illness, caring for a loved one, or doing both at once—small steps truly matter.

Recovering from a serious injury showed me that small, simple adjustments can make a meaningful difference. Here are a few things that truly helped as I began to heal:

• A napkin tucked into my cervical collar – Kept the collar clean during meals and saved me from social errors.

• Bent straws – Made drinking easier and reduced spills when my hands weren’t reliable.

• Lightweight cups with large handles – I could lift them using only three fingers.

• Sleeping flat on my bed – Provided better neck alignment and deeper rest.

• Flexible sleeping options – While a pillow works best for some, a fully reclining La-Z-Boy chair worked well for me on certain nights. If one position isn’t comfortable, try another—and listen to your caregiver’s suggestions.

• Arm glide exercises – Gentle movement prevented stiffness in my shoulder and arm.

• Grab bars and tub support bars – Although I understood their value, pride made me hesitant to accept them in my home. I’m deeply grateful for my occupational therapist who was patient yet firm. These supports made showering far safer and less stressful.

• Physical and Occupational Therapy – PTs and OTs bring practical skills and creative problem-solving. My home health therapists taught me habits and isometric exercises that strengthened my body for gentle daily movement and prepared me for future challenges.

Each small discovery made my recovery smoother and more hopeful. Experiencing care firsthand reinforced what I have long believed as a caregiver: healing is not meant to be done alone. We are here to help each other. My recovery, though long and slow, has been remarkable, and I credit that progress to the tremendous care of my caregivers. If you or someone you love is recovering from an injury or illness, trust and accept help from caregivers of all kinds. Their patience, encouragement, and simple adaptations truly make a difference. Be gentle with yourself—each day brings progress, even on the hard ones, and every small step forward matters.

To read subsequent articles about my journey, please go to www.WasatchCaregivers.com or click the QR code below.