Unshelved by Bill Barnes and Gene Ambaum
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Friday, October 12, 2012

'You can get hit by a car and live'

So said a former acquaintance's four-year-old daughter when she got bumped by a car years ago. Well, I have to admit, it's true.

I was crossing Richmond Road today on the way to catch the bus, obeying all traffic lights and laws, and in the crosswalk. A man turning left with the yellow caution arrow came into me, running over my foot and hitting me on the right side. Fortunately for me, 1) an EMT and physician on their way to work both stopped and prevented him from trying to move me, 2) they called 911 and stayed with me, giving me a quick once over, making sure I was breathing okay and knew my name and such, 3) they kept him in place until the police and ambulance arrived, 4) there was a police report and the driver does have insurance, and 5) if you're going to get hit by a car, it's always nice when you're within sight of a hospital.

The folks with the police, EMTs, and St Joseph Hospital were great. I'm not clear just how extensive the damage is--at least two bones in the foot are quite broken and possibly the ankle, judging from my paperwork. They put a splint on me and gave me crutches, and I'm to see an orthopaedic specialist to determine eventual treatment. I called and got an appointment for Tuesday. The biggest problem I have at the moment is the crutches. My right leg is my normally good leg, I have arthritis in my left knee. So I'm putting a lot of pressure on it since I can't put weight on the right. And of course, there's quite a bit of weight to put on one leg only. I had some crazy idea of trying to make it into work today after everything until I tried the crutches and found I am virtually immobile at the moment. I'll work with them tomorrow and see if I can get around the house. Then we'll tackle going back to work. Thank goodness I have a sedentary job.

Thank you to Brandon for getting me home, getting my medication, and getting me something to drink. He'll also be taking me to my orthopaedic appointment. [Bless his heart, texting 'Dont panic. I got hit by a car today' just didn't go over well, and I worried him terribly]. Thanks to A for calling and checking on me, and Brenda for her offer to get me food if needed or anything else I need. And thanks to YKWIA for letting everyone know what happened. Also to the folk at work for being understanding and offering to take me home.

Okay, I've eaten, had something to drink, taken a pain pill (I hate the things, but there are times they're necessary), and I am going to retreat to my bedroom and get my leg elevated.

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