Katiepie graduates

[DJSin]

Katie your attitude and positivity have been amazing. If you slip a bit everyone would understand, and as you see offer their help. Please don't be afraid to say you aren't feeling the best.
:yes:

[Mom]

I am exhausted. So... whens bed time again? zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Hey Sweetiepie, you have hit your persoanal wall is all love. You have been so brave, and so bright, and so cheerful and so amazing, it is no big surprise you are not feeling well now.

Stop! You dont actually have to be that brave, big girl, you have had one hell of an experience and you need time to heal from it and not just physically.

Rest, get better drugs, you absolutely MUST get on top of the pain. Make that a priority. Rest when you can. There is another member on here that spent a while in a halo, I will see if I can hunt her down and find out how she managed to get comfy.

Above all just take your time, there are no prizes for rapid recovery at the detriment of a full, uncomplicated one.

Take care love. Let others do for you for a while. I know how horrible that must seem to your independance, but honestly a week or so of dependancewill go a long way towards you getting back to you again.

Hugs sweetie.

Anne

[Edbear]

Hey Sweetiepie, you have hit your persoanal wall is all love. You have been so brave, and so bright, and so cheerful and so amazing, it is no big surprise you are not feeling well now.

Stop! You dont actually have to be that brave, big girl, you have had one hell of an experience and you need time to heal from it and not just physically.

Rest, get better drugs, you absolutely MUST get on top of the pain. Make that a priority. Rest when you can. There is another member on here that spent a while in a halo, I will see if I can hunt her down and find out how she managed to get comfy.

Above all just take your time, there are no prizes for rapid recovery at the detriment of a full, uncomplicated one.

Take care love. Let others do for you for a while. I know how horrible that must seem to your independance, but honestly a week or so of dependancewill go a long way towards you getting back to you again.

Hugs sweetie.

Anne

+1! It could be a bit of delayed reaction, too. You just feel what you feel, sweety and know it's normal. We're all with you in spirit if not in person, (shame you're so far away!). :love:

[Mom]

+1! (shame you're so far away!). :love:

Tough eh Ed?

[Number One]

What Mom said! Especially that first bit. Give yourself permission to feel off! Frankly I'd wonder if you were a cyborg if you didn't have even the odd fleeting moments of self pity or just plain old ARGH

The body doesn't let you get away with bottling up emotional effects for long either and soon they become physical - me thinks you got enough going on to be holding things back. I've found as unproductive or silly as it may feel sometimes the most helpful thing you can do for your body is have a good blub or tanty or scream or heck 'type'

:hug:

[Mom]

or heck 'type'

:hug:

What #1 said :D

Typing is as good as the other alternatives if that is what you need to do.

Slow, small steps, lead the way to steady, managed recovery.

[Paul in NZ]

Frankly I'd wonder if you were a cyborg :hug:

Jeeze - you seen her lately, shes got friggin bolts in her head, COURSE shes a cyborg... :woohoo:

Good advice all round. You need anything distracting? Crap books or movies?

[allycatz]

Katie , see if you can get a referral to the Pain clinic at Wellington Hospital. I had a flatmate with similar injuries and the pain clinic tried several combinations of medications until they got it right...if you can't rest, healing will be slower. Good luck with this

[steve_t]

I hope you feel better soon, KP!
But mostly I hope you've got good drugs for now. Not HTFU pills but real ones. Are you comfortable disclosing what you're taking? The pain clinic sounds like a good idea. Sometimes weird drugs like Carbamazepine is good for neural pain even though that's not its normal use. Best to chat to a pain specialist.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!!

[Madmax]

oxycontin is a good pain relever
plus dope food (cakes etc), good all round body stone.
plus a diet of good comics, Knuckles the Malevolent Nun
,cherry poptart:love:

[Edbear]

Tough eh Ed?

It is, she's like a daughter to us and you just want to be there for her.


What Mom said! Especially that first bit. Give yourself permission to feel off! Frankly I'd wonder if you were a cyborg if you didn't have even the odd fleeting moments of self pity or just plain old ARGH

The body doesn't let you get away with bottling up emotional effects for long either and soon they become physical - me thinks you got enough going on to be holding things back. I've found as unproductive or silly as it may feel sometimes the most helpful thing you can do for your body is have a good blub or tanty or scream or heck 'type':hug:

And type, "HECK!!!"

[Paul in NZ]

Knuckles the Malevolent Nun


I'm just so googling THAT :love:

[Gone Burger]

I give my deepest apologies.

I shouldnt have posted like I did the other day, and I knew it at the time too.

I thank you all for your wonderful words of kindness and support. I am all good. Just super. May even go for a walk on my own down the road later in the rain. Sounds kinda nice.

Sorry guys 'n gals. A moment of weakness that I should have pushed harder to get through.

[Ronin]

I give my deepest apologies.

I shouldnt have posted like I did the other day, and I knew it at the time too.

I thank you all for your wonderful words of kindness and support. I am all good. Just super. May even go for a walk on my own down the road later in the rain. Sounds kinda nice.

Sorry guys 'n gals. A moment of weakness that I should have pushed harder to get through.

Pft. Your to hard on your self. There is no right or wrong way to get through this as long as you do get through it. We all have our moments of supposed weakness for what ever reason. It takes more strength to reach out, to trust in others than it does to bury it deep inside.

Don't rust :innocent:

[oneofsix]

I give my deepest apologies.

I shouldnt have posted like I did the other day, and I knew it at the time too.

I thank you all for your wonderful words of kindness and support. I am all good. Just super. May even go for a walk on my own down the road later in the rain. Sounds kinda nice.

Sorry guys 'n gals. A moment of weakness that I should have pushed harder to get through.

I know I should leave this to someone that you've actually met but come on girl let those feeling flow. You've got a few more rough times coming and from what I've seen of this thread there are plenty of willing shoulders for you to cry on. This is a sign that you are healing and its good to see. It also helps others to be realistic about what an off can really mean.

[Paul in NZ]

May even go for a walk on my own down the road later in the rain. Sounds kinda nice.

If that halos not stainless steel you might need to dunk your head in WD40 afterwards then.

Jeeze - we all have a melt down occasionally and sometimes here - you aint so special YOU cant have one too ya know - NOTHING to appologise for.... Nothing at all, we are all human....

Unless you are actually a cyborg :innocent:

[Hawkeye]

It is, she's like a daughter to us and you just want to be there for her.



Shhhhhh Edbear... she may ask for her pocket money.:facepalm:

But your right. We have taken KP to our hearts.
But she is also a stubborn wee thing. It took me weeks to convince her to borrow a TV from me rather than sitting watching a little 14in screen. I was glad to get it off the bedroom floor but almost had to drag her kicking and screaming to pick it up. (didn't have a working cage to drop it off myself otherwise I would have).
She is very independent and hates relying on others.
But that is also what makes her so special - her love of life and her strong will to just get on with it.

KP - hang in there and do call on us if you ever need ANYTHING. You don't have to do it all yourself. Because you would be the first to come help us if the roles were reversed.


PS. I'm still waiting for that text

[Paul in NZ]

Shhhhhh Edbear... she may ask for her pocket money.:facepalm:

But your right. We have taken KP to our hearts.
But she is also a stubborn wee thing. It took me weeks to convince her to borrow a TV from me rather than sitting watching a little 14in screen. I was glad to get it off the bedroom floor but almost had to drag her kicking and screaming to pick it up. (didn't have a working cage to drop it off myself otherwise I would have).
She is very independent and hates relying on others.
But that is also what makes her so special - her love of life and her strong will to just get on with it.

KP - hang in there and do call on us if you ever need ANYTHING. You don't have to do it all yourself. Because you would be the first to come help us if the roles were reversed.


PS. I'm still waiting for that text

Has she got a DVD player?

I got a spare one ya can borrow.

[Katman]

In this case I feel that accidents can happen, and we can't always avoid them.

At the risk of raining on everyone's love-fest, I'm disappointed to read this.

[Nasty]

At the risk of raining on everyone's love-fest, I'm disappointed to read this.

As disappointed as you are ... she is right .. some accidents just happen and can not be avoided .. that doesn't mean that katies couldn't be ... but let it rest ... katie is working through things ... and she must be allowed to do that.

[oneofsix]

As disappointed as you are ... she is right .. some accidents just happen and can not be avoided .. that doesn't mean that katies couldn't be ... but let it rest ... katie is working through things ... and she must be allowed to do that.

+1 especially as no one knows exactly what happened.

[steve_t]

At the risk of raining on everyone's love-fest, I'm disappointed to read this.

Seriously? :facepalm:

[Grubber]

At the risk of raining on everyone's love-fest, I'm disappointed to read this.

Oh please....for once can you take your evangelistic wailing somewhere else. It's really starting to wear rather thin now!:angry:

[Maha]

I give my deepest apologies.

I shouldnt have posted like I did the other day, and I knew it at the time too.

I thank you all for your wonderful words of kindness and support. I am all good. Just super. May even go for a walk on my own down the road later in the rain. Sounds kinda nice.

Sorry guys 'n gals. A moment of weakness that I should have pushed harder to get through.

Can you attach some glad wrap to your halo to keep out at least some of the rain?
Infact, you can buy those gald wrap bag things that go over salad bowls, they might be a better bet?

[MarkH]

I give my deepest apologies.

I shouldnt have posted like I did the other day, and I knew it at the time too.

You have nothing to apologise for IMO. You're human and sometimes you will feel less than the best - we all experience the same thing.

I have to admire your upbeat attitude that you have 99% of the time - you are one spirited young woman. Most people would be filled with more self-pity in your situation.

It is good to read about you considering going for a walk, I hope that you are feeling a bit better - I hope that you are back to your normal self and back on a bike in time for next summer! Take it easy and keep healing!

[Nasty]

I give my deepest apologies.

I shouldnt have posted like I did the other day, and I knew it at the time too.

I thank you all for your wonderful words of kindness and support. I am all good. Just super. May even go for a walk on my own down the road later in the rain. Sounds kinda nice.

Sorry guys 'n gals. A moment of weakness that I should have pushed harder to get through.

This is a (relatively) safe place for support with what you are going through ... there are those who understand and there are those who never will till it happens to them.

Trust me when I say that it is ok to post however and whatever you need to.

all good to be up and bubbly and have unending optimisim .. but life is life and sometimes the shit hits the fan. All it really does it let people see that you are normal, lovely and awesome in the challenges that you are meeting.

[boman]

This is a (relatively) safe place for support with what you are going through ... there are those who understand and there are those who never will till it happens to them.

Trust me when I say that it is ok to post however and whatever you need to.

all good to be up and bubbly and have unending optimisim .. but life is life and sometimes the shit hits the fan. All it really does it let people see that you are normal, lovely and awesome in the challenges that you are meeting.

+100% for this. This bunch of KB screwballs, are a great bunch to help when things get down. Keep typing and keep us all informed of your wellbeing. Please.

[Spearfish]

at least 10 characters.

[caseye]

I give my deepest apologies.

I shouldnt have posted like I did the other day, and I knew it at the time too.

I thank you all for your wonderful words of kindness and support. I am all good. Just super. May even go for a walk on my own down the road later in the rain. Sounds kinda nice.

Sorry guys 'n gals. A moment of weakness that I should have pushed harder to get through.


Get away With ya! Apologising for being an ordinary humble human being! Na, not going to fly around here.
Like Mom and Nasty (cripes that could've bin nasty) have said ask away and be happy,the troops will rally if needed, meantime say whatever you want and be safe in the knowledge that it gets only as far as here.
Take the time to heal nice and slow, everything else will follow.

[Crasherfromwayback]

At the risk of raining on everyone's love-fest, I'm disappointed to read this.

Why don't we let KP heal with the help of support and positive thoughts, and maybe worry about the 'hows' when she's better and stronger?

[davebullet]

I give my deepest apologies.

I shouldnt have posted like I did the other day, and I knew it at the time too.

I thank you all for your wonderful words of kindness and support. I am all good. Just super. May even go for a walk on my own down the road later in the rain. Sounds kinda nice.

Sorry guys 'n gals. A moment of weakness that I should have pushed harder to get through.

In my book its always a moment of strength when you talk or reach out to others. Glad you are having a better day today. Just wish the weather was better for walking. I'm sure I put about 1kg on during my run today (clothes soaking up the water!)

[Smifffy]

KP: Don't be so worried about what you should and shouldn't be doing, all you 'should' be doing is taking it easy and getting betterer.


KM: Can we just agree that not all accidents are avoidable by all people at all times?

[Smifffy]

Sort of like a Get Out Of Jail Free card?

Maybe not. Happy to discuss it further. Not here.

[Fatt Max]

This is a (relatively) safe place for support with what you are going through ... there are those who understand and there are those who never will till it happens to them.

Trust me when I say that it is ok to post however and whatever you need to.

all good to be up and bubbly and have unending optimisim .. but life is life and sometimes the shit hits the fan. All it really does it let people see that you are normal, lovely and awesome in the challenges that you are meeting.

Serious +1 on this me old mate, just roll with and post away

Because if you stop posting, you know what will happen eh...

I still have them there latex gloves from the ward and Ratti has a few rubber hoses hidden...

eh......

Cheers my dear xxx

[mrmeal]

....and we are bound to see the photos of Max on here after the event, so if not for yourself think about the rest of us :) Hope that pain subsides for you though, don't rush things, good things take time well so the Mainland cheese adds tell us, so just take things easy.

[brumax]

Katie! You have no need to say sorry for your post,
I dont suppose there many of us that really know what your going through,
I for sure dont,
I really hope that the love that comes to you from your friends and family that are close to ye and the rest of us on this site gives you extra strength to deal with your pain,

i am sure that we all would love to take a wee bit o pain from ye,
I! only a wee bit mind :-)

I had a wee run round the Highlands last weekend and thought it will be great to show you my favourite routes,
But you concentrate on repairing yersel, the Highlands will still be here when your ready
Take it eeezzzzzyyy

[Berg]

Hope the weekend has produced better days Katiepie.
Don't stress the "bad days" and don't be a martyr and hold it all in. People here will and often do understand when venting about a shitty day is needed.
I had my share but people who listen and holding onto the positives usually helped.
Six months on from my crash, I still have "issues" (some say Iv'e always had issues) but I keep thinking, I can walk and I'm still alive. Just those two thoughts override many of the "down" thoughts

[Hinny]

It is, she's like a daughter to us and you just want to be there for her.

Ther'in lies a terrible dilemma huh?
'Cos she's so hot! :facepalm:

Hope you have the pain thing under control Katie. I don't believe you need to experience pain in this day and age. The drugs they have available are so good they just take it away. Pain Clinic referral was good advice IMHO.
Don't be too hard on yourself.

On another note.
Whangamomona rally this Anzac weekend. I'll go and have a bit of a good time for you. A proxy experience. You will be able to take your mind of your current situation and feel fantastic, thinking about all the good times I am having on your behalf.:woohoo: Woohoo!
Hopefully the mere anticipation of that has made you feel better.
Heal well and heal fast. :love:

[Edbear]

Hope the weekend has produced better days Katiepie.
Don't stress the "bad days" and don't be a martyr and hold it all in. People here will and often do understand when venting about a shitty day is needed.
I had my share but people who listen and holding onto the positives usually helped.
Six months on from my crash, I still have "issues" (some say Iv'e always had issues) but I keep thinking, I can walk and I'm still alive. Just those two thoughts override many of the "down" thoughts

+1, same goes for me 12mths on. I'm alive and walking and can grizzle and moan, and soak up the sypmathy, and I can drive our MX5 if not ride my bike...(:bye:)

So there's better times to come! :yes:

[Edbear]

Ther'in lies a terrible dilemma huh?
'Cos she's so hot! :facepalm:

...:

Ha ha! Everyone would agree Katie's gorgeous, and that all the young males swoon over her. She's the same age as our youngest daughter, though, and I'm probably older than her Dad.

[Paul M50]

Hey Katie, one day in the not too distant future you will get to run in green fields with your dogs jumping around you and the sun on your back. Till then your fellow bikers will support you in any way we can. I know you would do the same.

[Gone Burger]

Hey Katie, one day in the not too distant future you will get to run in green fields with your dogs jumping around you and the sun on your back. Till then your fellow bikers will support you in any way we can. I know you would do the same.

Paul, you are so very kind and I must keep reminding myself of this daily. I plan to have an extra week off work once the halo comes off so I can do just that... book a back massage, a nice hair cut, and spend some days at the river with my dearly missed dogs who are such a rock in my world. It's going to be a magic week, and one I will never forget in my life time.

The support on KB is so warmly received. Learning how to be Dependant again means you just need and reach out for a little more support that you originally imagine. And I come in here, read these amazing posts, and know that I truly am such a rich person and this is a point I have been working very hard to get to in my life. And I am proud. You give me incredible support, and more strength than you all realise. And at the moment, I am a little weak, and am welcoming it with big arms an a smile.

A couple of updates... went to the doc yesterday. A quick visit. He finally received all the scan from the original doc, and was more up to speed with my injuries. As a result, he said my fractures were too bad to take any chances taking the halo off early. Not only do I have an unstable hangman fracture in my C2 vertebrae, I also have fractures in the T1 - T3 vertebrae. Classic... I'm learning so much as I go along. So, this means the full 3 month term in the halo and body harness. 1 month down, 2 to go. Sleep it my main issue, have now been a week with barely an hour, and exhaustion is setting in. But I am working through it, and not long to go now.

Woo hoo - :woohoo: ACC start paying me soon. Thats a huge plus, as it now looks like I'll be out of my job soon as the boss is enjoying the short term savings he is making. What ever happens, I am ready to tackle it and reckon I will be right as rain with what ever needs to be sorted out.

Love to you all xxxx and big halo hugs! I just wont move or I will knock you out. I'm a hazard don't you know!? :love:

[Paul in NZ]

sweet as.

I have a spare DVD player here if you dont have one? can lend you some crap movies or books to pass the time?

[Edbear]

...A couple of updates... went to the doc yesterday. A quick visit. He finally received all the scan from the original doc, and was more up to speed with my injuries. As a result, he said my fractures were too bad to take any chances taking the halo off early. Not only do I have an unstable hangman fracture in my C2 vertebrae, I also have fractures in the T1 - T3 vertebrae. Classic... I'm learning so much as I go along. So, this means the full 3 month term in the halo and body harness. 1 month down, 2 to go. Sleep it my main issue, have now been a week with barely an hour, and exhaustion is setting in. But I am working through it, and not long to go now.

Woo hoo - :woohoo: ACC start paying me soon. Thats a huge plus, as it now looks like I'll be out of my job soon as the boss is enjoying the short term savings he is making. What ever happens, I am ready to tackle it and reckon I will be right as rain with what ever needs to be sorted out.

Love to you all xxxx and big halo hugs! I just wont move or I will knock you out. I'm a hazard don't you know!? :love:

Your accident will change your life almost completely judging from my experience. You will change some as a person and your future will be different from your pre-accident life. While I would never wish it on anyone, nor want to go through it again, (it hurts to much...), my accident may have been the best thing to happen to me. It sounds wierd, I know, but my life has changed, and for the better. I'm a better person for it, my friends and family tell me and I feel it within myself.

I now have opportunities not available to me before, physically in getting better overall health as well as fitter and stronger; work-wise in the opportunity to build my own business with support from a steady income, (small, but ACC are paying me a wage), assistance from ACC to get back to work and provide things I need.

My family and friends are even closer now than before and everyone is more conscious of how precious life and people in your life, are.

You will experience these things I'm sure and your example will inspire others and bring out the best in your family and friends!

[Swoop]

Glad to hear of the progress!


Not only do I have an unstable hangman fracture in my C2 vertebrae, I also have fractures in the T1 - T3 vertebrae.
My mate did the same thing. Hangman's of C2 = halo time.
The doc's wanted to study him to work out why he was alive... It probably wasn't something we did when the accident occurred and were administering 1st aid.:facepalm:

[Spearfish]

at least 10 characters.

[oneofsix]

I guess theres a good reason they call it a hangman's fracture and that makes it all the more frightening. Glad the halo referred to is only a medical support, though by all reports you are an angel just need to keep you on earth a bit longer (bugger missed a pun should have said "keep your feet on the ground" instead of "on earth") :innocent:

[Gone Burger]

hehe yes... I understand why they now call it a hangmans fracture. Did some research on it, what an eye opener. Couldn't be any luckier, thats for sure. I am truely blessed!!!

And guess what.....? I GOT 6 HOURS SLEEP LAST NIGHT!!!! Woo fricken hoo. And I feel like a new person and can take on the world. Bring it on. With sleep, I can face anything. So very excited right now, not sure why, but I feel absolutely amazing compared to this past week. Almost feel like doing a little dance :woohoo:

[javawocky]

...little dance :woohoo:

...make a little love...

[R-Soul]

...make a little love...

...get down tonight...

[Gone Burger]

...make a little love...

Have you also been reading the handbook they give you from the hospital for the Halo? Sounds like you have. I must admit, its a VERY amusing read!

[Edbear]

hehe yes... I understand why they now call it a hangmans fracture. Did some research on it, what an eye opener. Couldn't be any luckier, thats for sure. I am truely blessed!!!

And guess what.....? I GOT 6 HOURS SLEEP LAST NIGHT!!!! Woo fricken hoo. And I feel like a new person and can take on the world. Bring it on. With sleep, I can face anything. So very excited right now, not sure why, but I feel absolutely amazing compared to this past week. Almost feel like doing a little dance :woohoo:

Six hours? Brilliant! I was about to recommend rocking yourself to sleep, you know, first select the rock...? :innocent:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Best way to send ya self off to sleep is with a massive masti session!

[Mom]

hehe yes... I understand why they now call it a hangmans fracture. Did some research on it, what an eye opener. Couldn't be any luckier, thats for sure. I am truely blessed!!!

They dont call it hangman for any other reason love. You are more blessed than you realise.


Have you also been reading the handbook they give you from the hospital for the Halo? Sounds like you have. I must admit, its a VERY amusing read!

They hand them out for all sorts of things. You should have seen the one my son got on type one diabetes :yes:


Best way to send ya self off to sleep is with a massive masti session!

I find after a little rest it actually fires me up to great things :sunny:

Katie, wank :yes:

It may relax you to sleep, it may give you strength to keep going. Whichever/whatever it wont hurt and will definately feel good in the process :shutup:

[Hinny]

Ha ha! Everyone would agree Katie's gorgeous, and that all the young males swoon over her.

Not just the young ones.

[Hinny]

Katie, wank :yes:

It may relax you to sleep, it may give you strength to keep going. Whichever/whatever it wont hurt and will definately feel good in the process :shutup:

She might need a Magic Penis.... joke for your entertainment.


A businessman was preparing to go on a long business trip, so he thought he'd buy his wife something to keep her occupied.

He went to a sex shop and explained his situation. The man there said, ' Well, I don't know that I have anything that will keep her occupied
for so many weeks, except... the Magic Penis!'

The husband said, 'The what'?

The man repeated, 'The Magic Penis,' and pulled out what seemed to be an ordinary dildo.

The husband laughed, and said, 'It looks like a dildo!'
The man then pointed to the door and said, ' Magic Penis, door!'

The penis rose out of its box, darted over to the door and started pounding away at the keyhole. The whole door shook wildly
with vibrations, so much so, that a crack began to form down the middle.


Then the man said, 'Magic Penis, return to box!' and the penis stopped and returned to the box.
The husband bought it and took it home to his wife.


After the husband had been gone a few days, the wife remembered the Magic Penis. She undressed, opened the box and said
'Magic Penis, my vagina.'
The penis shot to her crotch. It was absolutely incredible. After three mind shattering orgasms, she became very exhausted and decided she'd had enough. She tried to pull it out, but it was stuck.

Her husband had neglected to tell her how to turn it off so she put her clothes on, got in her car and started for the closest hospital.
On the way, another incredibly intense orgasm made her swerve all over the road. A Police Officer saw this and immediately pulled her over.

He asked for her license, and then asked how much she'd had to drink.
Gasping and twitching, the woman said, 'I haven't had anything to drink officer. You see, I've got this Magic Penis stuck in my crotch and it won't stop screwing me.'

The officer looked at her for a second, shook his head and replied,'Yeah right... Magic Penis, my arse...!!!!!!!!!!'


The rest, as they say, is history...

[FruitLooPs]

^^ :lol: haha not half bad hinny.

On a more serious note, with all this hangman and vertebrae I remembered the HANS devices installed in race cars. Seems that MX and Enduro guys have taken to Motorcycle neck braces in a fairly big way. Stuff like the Leatt Braces & EVS RC Evo http://www.webbikeworld.com/r4/leatt-brace/

Cant say I've ever seen a street rider in one and they sound like a bit of a hassle, but then again some things caught my attention:

"Speak to any paramedic or firefighter and they’ll all tell you the same. First on scene at a motorcycle accident, you must suspect C-spine injury. If the victim is unconscious you take it as read that the C-spine, and the spine in general, is injured"

"There’s a medical rhyme: “C one, two, three, four, five: keeps the diaphragm alive"

"The tests used standard protocols for restraint systems developed by various countries, and showed that the Leatt Brace (Moto GPX model) reduced flexion from 90 degrees with no brace to 60 degrees with and extension from 85 degrees with no brace to 50 degrees with."

Pitty it won't fit when using leathers with humps, or let you really get into a full race tuck by the sound of it, might restrict some head motion (not as bad as you might think though) - and cost a bomb.. Personal choices and intended uses I guess :ride::scooter:

*edit*
Looks like Leatt has a roadrace specific brace the "STX" as of this year http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8u0p36mSI00

[Reckless]

^^ :lol: haha not half bad hinny.

On a more serious note, with all this hangman and vertebrae I remembered the HANS devices installed in race cars. Seems that MX and Enduro guys have taken to Motorcycle neck braces in a fairly big way. Stuff like the Leatt Braces & EVS RC Evo http://www.webbikeworld.com/r4/leatt-brace/

Cant say I've ever seen a street rider in one and they sound like a bit of a hassle, but then again some things caught my attention:

I have a leatt for the dirt bike Fruitloops. Just went and tried it on the SV1000 with my Ixon jacket and Shark Rsr2 road bike helmet on! Haven't taken it for a ride but it would work quite well! leaves a bit of a hole around the neck so a neck warmer would be necessary. Restricts a fraction but not to bad at all. With my neck damage from the 06 accident it might seriously be worth a go at a track day?? Not sure how they'd go with the head position on a CBR or R1 but it'd work on every other bike I reckon (prob on those as well).

I had an evs I don't think that would be a goer but the leatt....Mmmm food for thought???

[\m/]

I looked at getting a neck brace when I started riding last year but there weren't any road braces available at the time. I'll probably get an STX road when they finally go on sale.

[kilgh]

Hey Katiepie.

I somehow missed this post-fest. I heard your story on the news but I had no idea it was you until now!

Glad you got some sleep. That is about the single most important thing you need right now to recover. Sleep and lots of it. I was reading a book from a neurologist who also had brain trauma saying the best thing she did was sleep continuously. This doctor swears it was why she recovered so well against all odds. That and listening to what her body wanted to do. I saw someone else mentioned that too.

As to pain control, the docs should have you on a nerve specific painkiller if you are experiencing nerve issues. They are quite different from standard painkillers. Have some side-effects though. But when my mother was having nerve pain, these were the only type of pain relief that worked.

Also you may be aware that women are not as responsive to morphine or other opiate based drugs as compared to men? And that lack of sleep makes pain more painful?

So a pain clinic is a good idea. You might well need to try out a few different drugs to get the best result.

Also agree with the low blood sugar/dehydration suggestion. I have made the weirdest decisions at times after those long shifts where eating/drinking was not possible. I've even made a dumb mistake, chastised myself for it, and then done the same dumb thing right after! (If you've seen Sky Sport go to black twice one early morning :shit:that was probably me!)

So who knows why the accident happened? It's not important now. You may never remember so don't worry about it. It is not in your control. My brother was run over when he was about 18yrs old. He's 40yrs old now and still can't remember what happened. And he did not suffer anywhere near your injuries.

My father spent several weeks in a halo after a spinal fusion. I don't remember him having too much trouble sleeping...but that was probably all the beer....:yes: Not recommended incidentally!

But anyway, I'm rambling.

So, take it easy. Be grumpy when you want, happy when you want, sleep when you want, and ask for as much help as you need!

[chanceyy]

Happy birthday Katie, hope today is filled with lovely surprises & lots of cake :)

keep healing chick :) see you back on the road soon :)

[Paul M50]

Happy brithday Katie :yes::woohoo::bye::violin::shit::yes::yes::yes::ye s::yes:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Hope you manage to have a lovely day!!

[mrmeal]

Happy Birthday! Have a tops day m'lady.

[MadDuck]

Happy Birthday Katie. Still a long way to go but thank you for sharing your path to healing with us.

Would bring you cake but its just a bit far.

[Berg]

Happy birthday from the Bergs.
Interesting about people looking into neck-braces. Since my crash I have been wearing a Alpinestars collar type neck-brace and find it very good.
It doesn't restrict neck movement and with a naked bike it actually supports my helmet against the wind. I will continue to wear it even after final sign off from the surgeon.

[blackdog]

:doh: should have read this thread before firing up a new one. (i did search)

happy birthday KP.

[Hinny]

Oh no! I missed your birthday.
Hope it was better than the day before.
Just had an image of you, in your birthday suit with a halo :gob:. . . Rather Angelic.
I am in Taupo getting in some party training so your proxy experience of the Tahora rally will be especially good. . . 'cos it's your birthday.

Sleep well.

[Hinny]

Hey Katie, How is the pain relief going?
The less injured you are it seems the more pain you get so I guess in someway you should feel better knowing you are healing.
I don't believe you need to feel the pain though.
I hope you have it sorted.
Sweeet dreams.:sleep:

[Billy]

Hi Katiepie,

Dont know you at all but stumbled on your story,

I have been fortunate enough over a long race career to avoid the sort of injuries you have sustained (thankfully cause I dont think Id deal with them as well as you have),

However I did do some junior training with a young rider at Manfeild prior to the Shell two wheeler in 1989 to help him be more competitive come raceday,Sadly he crashed during the prelim race(guess I didnt teach him too well huh?)and was run over by a fellow competitor fracturing C5 and C6 vertebrae and leaving him what they termed "Tits down paralysed"(would have excited me much more had he been a she,But I digress),I guess in that respect you have been spared some,Although the outcome would have been better if there were no crash at all,Anyhow,Havent seen Terry for about 3 years as Ive moved out of the Manawatu but he has progressed well and lives a relatively normal life now(Apart from the wheels stuck too his butt LOL).He was only able too acheive this through the support and love he recieved from family and freinds,It wasnt easy for him,But he did eventually get there.

I guess what Im saying here is sit back and enjoy the help and love being afforded you by the kind folks that have offered.

GOOD LUCK and happy healing,
Billy

[caseye]

A belated Happy Birthday Katiepie.
Wishing you painless days and sleeping nights, get better good, girl.

[Gone Burger]

All you SCRUMPTIOUS people...

Thank you for the lovely Birthday Wishes. It was the best day I have ever been Lucky enough to have, and had a truly unforgettable night last night.

And many of you on KB helped with this in-fucking-credible present. A personalised number plate for my bike "KT P13". To all of you who were a part of this, I can never thank you enough. I will never quite understand why everyone went to such a huge effort, but I will appreciate and cherish it for the rest of my life, without a doubt.

Happiest chick in the world. Luckiest girl as well. This accident has seen me through only a small handful of tough days, but as I said last night in my teary eyed speech, it may have been the best thing to ever happen to me. I am proud to have you all as friends. And I am proud of myself with my progress, and new way of looking at so many things. Two days before this accident, my whole world changed for the better. I had made it through the most challenging year I had ever faced, for various reasons. Then, I had the accident, but I had reached a point where it wasn't really a downside in my life. As everything else was brilliant. I had made it through. So this is only helping to strengthen me, and make me work even harder for the dreams I know I will achieve in my life.

My major goal is to be ready to head down the South Island (hopefully on the beloved R6, number plate KT P13) for the Burt Munro Challenge in November. I was down there last year the same week, and vouched I would make it all the way to the rally next year. And I will. Solo. Or, if anyone wants to come with me, more than welcome.

I will have the halo and brace off at the end of June. I will then have two months is a smaller neck brace to rebuild all the muscles to support my heart. I will give it one months further, then I will put my new Shoei Helmet on for the first time at the end of September. Then, I'll be ready to go, and booking in for the first available training day at Manfield with ProRider. Its a goal that I will make, and one that excites me so very much.

Best Birthday in the world. The last 3 nights I have had a divine 5 hours sleep each night, and I feel pretty incredible. My leg is gaining huge strength, and I have been walking without crutches. My shoulder is good if I am gentle with its use, and there an no current pains in my back or neck. Feeling good is an understatement. I have never felt so good. Honest answer right there.

27, alive, well, single, living in a great place that it just for me, beautiful dogs, looking at new career options, an amazing family, and exceptional friends. Happy, lucky, thankful, amazed... Can't wipe this silly grin from my face. Fuck, you all rock. It's that simple. xxxxxxxxxxx :love:

[DJSin]

Katie you are only getting back what you put out there :yes:

I'm glad you had a great birthday!!!

Fingers crossed that your sleep will improve over the coming days and all that rest will aid with recovery.

Big ups to Gaz for organizing the plate and I'm glad to hear you love it :)

[MarkH]

The last 3 nights I have had a divine 5 hours sleep each night, and I feel pretty incredible. My leg is gaining huge strength, and I have been walking without crutches. My shoulder is good if I am gentle with its use, and there an no current pains in my back or neck. Feeling good is an understatement. I have never felt so good. Honest answer right there.

Wow, so good to hear. I hope things keep getting better for you and that you get back into riding and going to rallies before the end of the year. All the best to you Katie.

[kilgh]

Wow! What a cool present!

Glad to hear you are having fun again. :woohoo:

[chanceyy]

Katie you are only getting back what you put out there :yes:

I'm glad you had a great birthday!!!

Fingers crossed that your sleep will improve over the coming days and all that rest will aid with recovery.

Big ups to Gaz for organizing the plate and I'm glad to hear you love it :)

+ one and yup Gaz kudos dude for pulling it all together ..

miss KT PI3 keep healing girl we wanna see that plate on the bike :hug:

[Gone Burger]

Gaz has done an amazing job, and you crazy kids have been so so generous. I couldn't love it more.

Check out the pic below of my gorgeous plate (template hehe). And it was really nice to be able to scrub up a little and feel like a lady again for the night. I think my smile gives away how good I was feeling.

xx

[Dogboy900]

Cool pics!
Glad you had a good birthday :)

I am amazed at how positive you are through this whole thing, totally amazing!!

Hope to see you out on the bike some time soon.

[Number One]

That's fab Katie and that you got to 'scrub up' and feel like a lady on your b'day.

Awesome plate too :)

[brumax]

OOPS!!
BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!
great to see you are on the up,
like everyone on here, think you are one amazin young lady,
Hey! can you hang onto the Halo so we still recognize ye?
:laugh:

[sels1]

Belated Happy Birthday KP, glad you had a good one.

[Big Dave]

All you SCRUMPTIOUS people...

Good on you. Very inspirational.

[Hinny]

G'day,
As promised, I partied on your behalf at the Rural Riders Anzac Run at Tahora.
I have been suffering all week as a result. My share of the action I could handle...:woohoo: it was your share that did me in. :facepalm:
When I was young I could go on a bender for a week and take a day to recover. Now I go on a bender for a night and it takes me a week to recover.
So, you can imagine how I felt after partying with Kinger, Hazel and friends in Taupo on Thursday night, followed by four days of hedonism, revelry and drunken debauchery at Tahora.
I sang myself hoarse, danced my arse off :shit: ...(it is so broken I feel like I've been on a horse for a week.:crybaby:) ate too much, drank (far) too much, rode too far, smiled too much (my face ached) and generally lived it up.

Hope this report makes you feel better.
You, or more precisely your surrogate self i.e. me, had a thoroughly good time.
When you are all fixed you might like to go party there yourself. I'm sure you could borrow a guitar and avail yourself of a solo spot that come up between sets or join in the 'Rubber Band's singalong. :2thumbsup You would certainly get to smile a lot.

Heal well and heal fast Katie.

[nzmikey]

Halo comes off 20th June. All booked in. No casts left, and walking with no crutches. Loving it. Happy as. The count down begins

[Quasi]

cool bananas - thats great news and we all looking forward to celebrating the new improved kati3 on 21 June:woohoo:

[Gone Burger]

I have had a wee break from this site recently, as I was weak emotionally and physically, and was being rather overwhelmed with some very personal attacks from people who do not know me at all.

So, after that much needed break, I now feel strong enough to post an update for you all after the past few weeks.

On Monday I had my last doctors appointment. I am not 100% cast free. They cut the cast off from my arm and its feels wonderful. It is however very tender with little movement in my wrist, but I'm sure it won't take long to get back to normal there.

I am walking without my crutches. I still have some swelling in my knee, lower leg and ankle, but can put my full weight on it and can bend it much more easily than just a few weeks ago.

What I had a wee dance about was getting the date booked in for my halo coming off. I had a new doctor. He said he was going to book me in for the halo coming off 3 months from last Monday. My jaw dropped, and I was kind of speechless. How could I have got that time frame so wrong? So I very quietly questioned why it wasn't''t only 3 months total from the day it went on? And.. he apologised after checking, and booked me in for an appointment on the 20th June. I have no further doctors appointments until the big one. I am absolutely thrilled to be counting down to then, and the anticipation will build with each passing day.

I feel pretty wonderful as a whole. A lot has happened these past few weeks, and there have been some very challenging events unfold. I am back to no sleep again, and sleeping tablets (2 a night) are not proving to be helpful. It's not a mind thing. I can honestly say I'm utterly exhausted. It's a comfort thing. But all on a very minor scale at the end of the day. Sleep will come eventually. Until then, I just take a lot of extra care up and down stairs etc as my energy for holding the halo up is low.

My father is down here with mum and I at the moment, so it's a full house. We all head up to Auckland to visit my darling Grandma next week, then I travel home alone for my first time. I will get the district nurse to start coming out to my house for the halo maintenance, and no doubt I will be facing some new challenges that will be good for me. Alas, I will then be having to ask for help from friends for my shopping and to get me out of my house every now and then. That on it's own is one of the biggest challenges I face, as I find it incredibly hard to do.

Today I went out to the crash site with my folks again. I got to have a good walk around, take some photos, and take in the facts. It was good to see it all for a while, and I believe I found the water tanks on the hill that I apparently saw, that led the rescue team to me. All in all a very good day. I will be heading back there later in the year when I am back on a bike, to ride through the corner successfully. I look forward to that, but will need to have a friend with me as I know the nerves will be high.

So, I'm good. Am trying to keep busy. And trying to keep moving, and am trying to keep my energy up. But perfectly happy to keep taking it one day at a time still.

I miss my friends on KB. All I ask is no one attack me harshly in response to this as I am not quite up to receiving that again just yet. Not feeling to flash about myself often, but will get there a small amount at a time. xx

[Edbear]

Woe betide anyone who dares to attack our Katiepie! :angry:

Hi Sweety! :sunny:

[Big Col]

Hi ya Katie. No personal attack, Ill save that for someone more deserving.Hang in there mate.

[DEATH_INC.]

Good to see ya back.
Shame on the gutless wimps who attack ya when you're down.:angry:

[Oblivion]

Go Katie!! :sunny:

I hope you feel better soon, its discouraging to see you in such a state, but be happy!!! You have everyone behind you (I think :blink:).

So make the most of your downtime, and concentrate on getting better.

Also, you don't need to cop anyone elses flack. Those guys are arseholes and need a good :bash:

(If it makes you feel any better you can do it instead of the rest of KB :yes:)

[Crasherfromwayback]

I have had a wee break from this site recently, as I was weak emotionally and physically, and was being rather overwhelmed with some very personal attacks from people who do not know me at all.



Name and shame Love! Anyone that kicks someone when they're down is a sorry arsed loser. Even worse when the injuries are as serious as yours.

[Edbear]

LOL!!! Who's not on Katie's side...? Very few of course! We all feel for you love, and wish we could take your pain away and share it among ourselves!

[hellokitty]

Name and shame Love! Anyone that kicks someone when they're down is a sorry arsed loser. Even worse when the injuries are as serious as yours.

Yep! Name and shame them! Gutless assholes. No one deserves what you got Katie - ooooooh does this mean I want to sleep with you? :woohoo:

[Gone Burger]

nice to be hearing from my friends again, thank you. I do think of you all often.

But no names, it's not necessary. I just ask that through this thread some of those people folks that have a lot to say to me, just approach it a little less harshly for the time being. That is my only request.

xx Pie

[jrandom]

She's not talking about me, by the way, guys.

Kia kaha, Katie!

[Owl]

and wish we could take your pain away and share it among ourselves!

Let's not get carried away Ed...........pain hurts:blink:

Great to see you back though Katie!:yes:

[hellokitty]

She's not talking about me, by the way, guys.

Kia kaha, Katie!

seriously? There were others? :facepalm: meanies!

[Gone Burger]

She's not talking about me, by the way, guys.

Kia kaha, Katie!

I'll back him up on this one. Not whom I was referring to.

Cheers Jrandom, much appreciated.

[Edbear]

Let's not get carried away Ed...........pain hurts:blink:

Great to see you back though Katie!:yes:

Yeah, I thought I might have been a bit generous in taking it all on myself, so by spreading it around it should take the edge off it for us... :innocent:

[mrmeal]

What I had a wee dance about was getting the date booked in for my halo coming off. I had a new doctor. He said he was going to book me in for the halo coming off 3 months from last Monday. My jaw dropped, and I was kind of speechless. How could I have got that time frame so wrong? So I very quietly questioned why it wasn't''t only 3 months total from the day it went on? And.. he apologised after checking, and booked me in for an appointment on the 20th June.

Sounds like things are coming away in leaps and bounds! thats really awesome news.



My father is down here with mum and I at the moment, so it's a full house. We all head up to Auckland to visit my darling Grandma next week, then I travel home alone for my first time.

Hey not sure how long you might be up in Auckland, but make sure to sing out on here if there is a social evening out maybe. Could be a good few of us keen to come out and have a drink (and meet you lol) I know me and my partner would be starters :) Safe travels, keep on soldiering on ;)

[Gone Burger]

Hey not sure how long you might be up in Auckland, but make sure to sing out on here if there is a social evening out maybe. Could be a good few of us keen to come out and have a drink (and meet you lol) I know me and my partner would be starters :) Safe travels, keep on soldiering on ;)

Thanks matey. I'm only up there for three nights, but I do like the sounds of that. Head up on Monday 9th, fly home Thursday 12th. I can not drive, and my folks are exhausted from running round all over town for me at the moment, so could head down to a bar in Mission Bay where they live for a catch up with a few folks. I know Auckland is a big place, but that's the only place I could get to. Let me know if that may work or not, then I'll let a few more folk know.

[mrmeal]

Mission bay is a good spot, easy to get to from most points in Auckland. You choose a suitable time in your schedule and pop it up. sounds good.

[Gone Burger]

You're an inspiration but random is still something that should be stood on and crushed IMHO.

I have made my peace with Jrandom so I will not mention the topic further. It's others that latched onto the Katie hate that offended me. Anyhow, all dealt with, and I'm feeling O.K. As I say, I missed my friends too much. I'm about to be living on my own again now, and house bound for 2 months, so I need to be in contact with you all to help me keep my spirits high, and step through any hurdles that arise. Thanks for your kind words Chris, lovely to be in contact again.

[IdunBrokdItAgin]

Well, I'm glad you came back.

My post count has gone up significantly since you left as I was a bit miffed about this place.

I can chill again now.

[Mully]

You're an inspiration but random is still something that should be stood on and crushed IMHO.

Will you people please stop giving me new sig material....


It's others that latched onto the Katie hate that offended me.

Katie-Hatie.

We need to get that in the lexion ASAP.

Onya Katie.

[caseye]

Sounds like things are coming away in leaps and bounds! thats really awesome news.



Hey not sure how long you might be up in Auckland, but make sure to sing out on here if there is a social evening out maybe. Could be a good few of us keen to come out and have a drink (and meet you lol) I know me and my partner would be starters :) Safe travels, keep on soldiering on ;)

Unconditionally in for this one if it could be made to happen without undue stress katiepie.
As for those who would stoop so low as to deliberately make life any more difficult at the moment, well katiepie, you've done the absolutely best thing, let it go, take a break, have a breather and then get right back into it.
Lifes too short as it is, as a Great mate of mine is want to tell me, we're here for a short time, so have a good time.
Don't worry, be happy!
My Mum, bless her ( gone now, 2 years) always used to tell me that, along with the other, Oh, Shudduppayourface.
Get well and take that precious sleep whenever you can.

[Hawkeye]

Alas, I will then be having to ask for help from friends for my shopping and to get me out of my house every now and then.


Great to have you back Katie. You have my number and know you just need to use it whenever you need that help.


Today I went out to the crash site with my folks again. I got to have a good walk around, take some photos, and take in the facts. It was good to see it all for a while, and I believe I found the water tanks on the hill that I apparently saw, that led the rescue team to me. All in all a very good day. I will be heading back there later in the year when I am back on a bike, to ride through the corner successfully. I look forward to that, but will need to have a friend with me as I know the nerves will be high.


Again, just call. It would be my pleasure to accompany you on what will be a fairly traumatic ride aound there.
Take care sweetie.

[Paul in NZ]

Hmmm... wonder if it was me that offended KP with the 'why were you lost and was it connected with falling off theory?"

Oh well....

[Edbear]

Hmmm... wonder if it was me that offended KP with the 'why were you lost and was it connected with falling off theory?"

Oh well....

Doubt it. She doesn't know why she was lost or fell off, more likely due to being blonde and female, methinks... :shutup:





(Wuvoo Katie...:sunny:)

[Hawkeye]

Doubt it. She doesn't know why she was lost or fell off, more likely due to being blonde and female, methinks... :shutup:





(Wuvoo Katie...:sunny:)

:killingme

[Gone Burger]

You cheeky monkies!


So, an interesting day indeed. I've gone from being very bubbly and excited, to absolutely furious, to pretty chilled about everything again really. A good mix for the day I think.

This morning I was assessed by an occupational thearopist for ACC to assist my problem sleeping. When I say no sleep, I do mean maximum 1/2 every night or two. So it's starting to become hard work, but I want to fix this best I can. With any luck, ACC will help me with a lazy boy chair to try in sleep in at night time. Which for me, is pretty darn exciting. I do think it will help, and am looking forward to having the energy to bounce off the walls again. I'll find out next week for sure if this is going to happen.

The next event was I missed a phone call on my cell from from my boss. It's the first time he has called me since my accident. And because of that, I knew exactly what it was about. I listened to the voice message, and I have lost my job. They do not have to legally hold it open for me, and he is well within his rights to do so. I knew it was heading in that direction, but it came as a bit of a shock to hear it. What made me wild was his lack of tact. I have been a very dedicated emloyee - 5 years full time, and 3 years free lancing before hand. So, I was rather disgusted in the way he approached that. Never a call to ask how I am. Just, bye bye, we are now free of you. Choice.

But now, after the anger, I'm actually O.K. I was feeling sick to my stomach at the thought of even going back there to work with people like that, and now I HAVE to do something about it now, rather than in 6 months time like I planned. All O.K. I need the money from a job, and ACC will only be covering me til the halo is off (only 5 weeks to go now). But alas, I can't drive with the next brace on and wont be able to attend interviews until I'm free of it. So, a new challenge lies ahead. Lack of income, after finally getting out of my house situation. But what's another challenge huh? Good for me, that's what. This may have been exactly what I need to get on with things, and find a job that I really do love.

Excited, angry then calm. All in a good day no?

Let the interesting times begin. :drinkup:

[Edbear]

ACC are still supporting me after the brace was off last Dec. I'm on a graduated return to work program and still have about 3wks to go of my physiotherapy. I've just had an assessment by a Dr. who will recommend I am supported into a job part-time at first as I'm not physically able to work full time, I'm simply not strong or fit enough yet.

I'd be asking questions. You should be put through an ACC rehabilitation program as I am being put through. Mine was for 12 weeks, then reassessed with periodic progress reports from my physiotherapist going to my case manager.

You should in no way be dumped from ACC for a long while yet. I was able to get home help in daily until I could shower and dress myself, too. They even supplied a medical alarm/phone in case I fell over when by myself at home.

Your old job was one I said a long time ago you should look for another one. I know it feels bad to be fired like that and he will hopefully find Karma, but as you say, now you can get a better one!

[Usarka]

1and ACC will only be covering me til the halo is off (only 5 weeks to go now). 11:

That doesn't sound right. Are you just basing that on what's on the medical cert? If so your doctor should be able to write another medical certificate if you are unfit for work (might pay to seek advice on that).

And sorry I don't know if this is the case at all, but if you also had a head injury I'd recommend getting that on the medical cert also, and seeing a concussion specialist. I can explain why if you want.

[Ocean1]

You should in no way be dumped from ACC for a long while yet.

Correct. There's no way the brace coming off is some official end of the line, you should get some form of support until you're good to return to work, (whatever that is / was. Ask your case manager what he plans for your rehabilitation.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Correct. There's no way the brace coming off is some official end of the line, you should get some form of support until you're good to return to work, (whatever that is / was. Ask your case manager what he plans for your rehabilitation.

What he says Love!

[mrmeal]

With the amount we are paying for ACC for this supposed sort of thing to get covered you'd better not get knocked off the ACC account dammit! :) that seriously sucks about the Boss, what a bottom dweller! You are right though, thankfully you do not need to work for an individual like that arse hat.

Woo cruise the lazyboy! does it come with drink holder? :)

[John_H]

You cheeky monkies!


So, an interesting day indeed. I've gone from being very bubbly and excited, to absolutely furious, to pretty chilled about everything again really. A good mix for the day I think.

This morning I was assessed by an occupational thearopist for ACC to assist my problem sleeping. When I say no sleep, I do mean maximum 1/2 every night or two. So it's starting to become hard work, but I want to fix this best I can. With any luck, ACC will help me with a lazy boy chair to try in sleep in at night time. Which for me, is pretty darn exciting. I do think it will help, and am looking forward to having the energy to bounce off the walls again. I'll find out next week for sure if this is going to happen.

The next event was I missed a phone call on my cell from from my boss. It's the first time he has called me since my accident. And because of that, I knew exactly what it was about. I listened to the voice message, and I have lost my job. They do not have to legally hold it open for me, and he is well within his rights to do so. I knew it was heading in that direction, but it came as a bit of a shock to hear it. What made me wild was his lack of tact. I have been a very dedicated emloyee - 5 years full time, and 3 years free lancing before hand. So, I was rather disgusted in the way he approached that. Never a call to ask how I am. Just, bye bye, we are now free of you. Choice.

But now, after the anger, I'm actually O.K. I was feeling sick to my stomach at the thought of even going back there to work with people like that, and now I HAVE to do something about it now, rather than in 6 months time like I planned. All O.K. I need the money from a job, and ACC will only be covering me til the halo is off (only 5 weeks to go now). But alas, I can't drive with the next brace on and wont be able to attend interviews until I'm free of it. So, a new challenge lies ahead. Lack of income, after finally getting out of my house situation. But what's another challenge huh? Good for me, that's what. This may have been exactly what I need to get on with things, and find a job that I really do love.

Excited, angry then calm. All in a good day no?

Let the interesting times begin. :drinkup:

Hey Kbow. Well done for being so chipper! What a gutless prick giving you the news over a phone message!! Revenge is a dish best served cold! Will ACC provide you with some sort of transport help to assist you back to work? COuld be worth checking up on.

[caseye]

The previous poster have said it all Katiepie. ACC cannot just drop you when the brace comes off.
Your old boss, is a grade A1, Arse Hole, butt he no longer matters.
Time for a change, look hard and long, decide what it's going to be and then go for it, I'm sure you will do well no matter what.
Don't sweat the Income thing. ACC have to continue paying whatever you are entitled to until you have been fully rehabilitated and are capable of returning to wrok, whatever that may be.
Anger, frustration, Hot and cold , all in one day? sounds like you live up ere in Dorkland.
Take care and remember, get better slow and heal well.

[Smallfishnz]

Hello Katipie
We have never met but I think that after reading all these posts that you must be one of those wonderful people that God has put on this earth to inspire us. In situations like yours I also think that God has a plan for you so keep smiling and posting and remember that anyone who says hateful things will get their just desserts.

I do not know what your beliefs are, but I will ask, if you do not mind, my church to pray for a full and speedy recovery for you.
Don't forget that you do not have to do everything on your own, from what I have been reading there are plenty of people who are willing to help you in any way possible
Get well soon

[Gone Burger]

I thank you all for your comments and follow up support regarding the job situation. I am trying to get a meeting with my ACC case manager in Lower Hutt end of next week and discuss fully my options, and get my head around it all. But, rest assured, this may be the best thing that's ever happened to me. Anyone that knows me personally knows the point I got to before my accident after a couple of years. And for me to have to get a new job and a new career really is the final thing to go through to make things pretty damn fantastic for me. It was something I was needing to do eventually, but this makes it happen sooner which really is a blessing.

Watch out world, Katiepie has got a lot of fight in her, and can get through anything. You have challenged me, and I have taken it on full steam ahead. All I can say is bring it on!

[Gone Burger]

I am in Auckland for a few days next week, seeing my darling 90 year old Grandma.

Drinkies for anyone thats wants to catch up

Wednesday 11th May
@ De Fontein Bar in Mission Bay (upstairs)
6.30pm onwards. Will be there maybe til about 8pm.

Would go more into the city but alas, no driving and this is a place I can walk to from my folks place.

Sorry, no bar tab - hahaha - I'm unemployed :killingme

Would love to catch up with a few of you. And love to meet some of you. I have some non biking friends coming over to see me too so I'll be all smiles and giggles guaranteed :love:

[Nasty]

...

Wednesday 11th May
@ De Fontein Bar in Mission Bay (upstairs)
6.30pm onwards. Will be there maybe til about 8pm.

...

see ya there :)

[Bikemad]

hi KP..........am about to embark on an uncertain future myself after just chucking in my job of 9 years,goin back to school,and as luck would have it i have a near new lazyboy recliner chair lookin for a good home........if you can transport it back to welly im happy to drop it off in St Helliers for you............

[Edbear]

I thank you all for your comments and follow up support regarding the job situation. I am trying to get a meeting with my ACC case manager in Lower Hutt end of next week and discuss fully my options, and get my head around it all. But, rest assured, this may be the best thing that's ever happened to me. Anyone that knows me personally knows the point I got to before my accident after a couple of years. And for me to have to get a new job and a new career really is the final thing to go through to make things pretty damn fantastic for me. It was something I was needing to do eventually, but this makes it happen sooner which really is a blessing.

Watch out world, Katiepie has got a lot of fight in her, and can get through anything. You have challenged me, and I have taken it on full steam ahead. All I can say is bring it on!

Funny isn't it? I feel the same way, as strange as it may seem to others. Once you have experienced what we have - an incident that nearly kills you and changes your life forever, you feel it was in hindsight the best thing that could have happened! :blink: I'd hate for anyone to go through what we have, and certainly wouldn't want it again for myself, but the outcome couldn't be better... well apart from not being able to ride again... :crybaby: :bye: Okay the physical legacy sucks, but everything else is better than before and I believe I'm a better person for it. :yes:

[brumax]

hey K,pie,
ur old boss and those that had a bad mouth wouldnt survive in bonnie scotland, we still have the death penalty :yes:
and you cant sack someone while off sick, you could sue his ass over here,
And!! for the asshole to leave the message on your voice mail, death penalty applies,
SO! As i have known you for a long time, ;) I am sure your strong attitude will take on anything that comes your way,
Oh ! let me know if you need the Guillotine taken over, as my French friends still have it,
no problem gettin it to NZ,
Ps. it will need cleaned after 'our' Royals get it :-)

[Dutchee]

Katie, if you do decide to have drinks, let me know when & where and I'll try to make it (make up for not catching up over Easter).

When you go to the supermarket (you could always order online), don't be too proud to ask for the key for the wheelchair, as it will be extremely tiring and we don't want to hear you collapsed halfway down aisle 3. I've seen people shopping in wheelchairs and can imagine how frusstrating that is, as how the heck are they meant to see what'ss on the higher shelves. Some are extremely independent and when I ask them if I can help them reach something, they give me an evil look lol. I'm short and have trouble in some supermarkets reaching stuff and it frustrates the heck outta me.

Stay strong, and take care. There's always the ignore list, and hopefully see you sometime this week
Michelle

[Gone Burger]

Katie, if you do decide to have drinks, let me know when & where and I'll try to make it (make up for not catching up over Easter

Hell doll. Having drinkies as above - Wednesday 11th May at De Fonteine Mission Bay.

Only for the 2 days there, sorry. But If I could drive I would be out and about visiting you all, no doubt about it.

[nothingflash]

I also think that God has a plan for you

Some might say it's been a pretty shitty plan in recent times...:facepalm:

[sels1]

When you go to the supermarket (you could always order online

ordering online is a good idea, they might charge a bit for delivery tho, seeing as you're way out in the sticks.

[scracha]

hey K,pie,
ur old boss and those that had a bad mouth wouldnt survive in bonnie scotland,

You've obviously never worked for some of the c@#$ I've dealt with in so called "bonnie" Scotland. They don't survive in Scotland, they'd thrive.



and you cant sack someone while off sick, you could sue his ass over here,

Nonsense. It's called "frustration of contract". Employers in Scotland also have to keep paying you though, so it's not all bad.



And!! for the asshole to leave the message on your voice mail, death penalty applies,

I'm assuming it's a two way thing and she contacted her work to let them know how things were coming along?


Oh...and I hope you make a full recovery Katie.

[Dutchee]

Hell doll. Having drinkies as above - Wednesday 11th May at De Fonteine Mission Bay.

Only for the 2 days there, sorry. But If I could drive I would be out and about visiting you all, no doubt about it.
Should be able to make it in time :)
So see ya Wednesday nite :)

[superman]

Hello Katipie
We have never met but I think that after reading all these posts that you must be one of those wonderful people that God has put on this earth to inspire us. In situations like yours I also think that God has a plan for you so keep smiling and posting and remember that anyone who says hateful things will get their just desserts.

I do not know what your beliefs are, but I will ask, if you do not mind, my church to pray for a full and speedy recovery for you.
Don't forget that you do not have to do everything on your own, from what I have been reading there are plenty of people who are willing to help you in any way possible
Get well soon

You made me giggle and very sad for your situation. Thank you. :yes:

Hope the healing's going well Katie! I know you are a wonderful person all on your own merits, and I can't help but admire how you always seem to be chirpy. I wish I could stop being a bitter youth. Then again sometimes I do enjoy it, perhaps a little too much. :shutup:

Here's to good health!

I would go Wednesday night, just to meet a lot of people from KB... but then again meeting a large bunch of people from the internet frightens me, so I'll probably stay away. Hope you have a good night.

[Gone Burger]

I'm assuming it's a two way thing and she contacted her work to let them know how things were coming along?


Oh...and I hope you make a full recovery Katie.

Of course I did. I have been feeling horrible about not being at work, as I am a very hard working and loyal employee. I got my mother to take me into work when I was on Crutches and barely walking still, so I could apologise in person for the chain of events, and for not being there. I also spoke to the co-owner of the business, offering to do work for free from home online to help out, and to call any hour of the day if the needed a question answered. This is a 24 hour business. So Yes, I most definitely have been in contact, and let them know progress after every single doctors visit. I am not trying to change the outcome of the job situation. I just feel they were lacking tact in telling me, after 8 years, that I had no job to return to. That's all. But, I've moved on now, and am on the job sites daily. May have to ask a favour of friends to help get me to an interview if I can get one. Yes, I will go to an interview in the halo. I know it's a bad look, but I simply can't be unemployeed and will give anything a go. Bring it on.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Bring it on.

Indeed. I think you'd be good in the motorcycle industry!

[Eyegasm]

Bring it on.

Just a question, but has your employer got a clause in your contract to get rid of you like this?

If not, take em to the cleaner for unfair dismissal!!!

[White trash]

Indeed. I think you'd be good in the motorcycle industry!

+1. Shame the pay's absolute arse.

[Maha]

Indeed. I think you'd be good in the motorcycle industry!

She's the only one I would ever buy a 'arley from....:rockon:

[willytheekid]

Just a question, but has your employer got a clause in your contract to get rid of you like this?

If not, take em to the cleaner for unfair dismissal!!!

+1 , if you have made contact with your employer and kept them updated with your progress they MUST have a release clause in the contract to dismiss you like that.
See a lawyer and discuss this matter asap.

You could go into mediation and seek your position back within the company....OR you could bend these bastards over and give it to them!, right in the wallet!...for a nice wee sum of 35-45 grand! (standard unfair dismissal claim $$..oh and nearly 90%of claims the employee wins!)

Go get em girl! :yes:

[Bald Eagle]

missal claim $$..oh and nearly 90%of claims the employee wins!)

Go get em girl! :yes:

+1 take them to the cleaners.

[sels1]

She's the only one I would ever buy a 'arley from....:rockon:

pfft, not even KP could con me into one of those

[Maha]

pfft, not even KP could con me into one of those

I never wanted an add in the Yellow pages years ago until they sent round a blonde in a mini skirt...:corn:

[Edbear]

She's the only one I would ever buy a 'arley from....:rockon:


I never wanted an add in the Yellow pages years ago until they sent round a blonde in a mini skirt...:corn:

I was gonna say, one twinkle from her eyes and you'd buy anything, wouldn't you... :innocent:

[mrmeal]

Katie...when you arrived in Auckland, did you bring this weather with you? We have to have words :)

if it's all still on, be good to put a name to a face at Mission bay later on.

[Str8 Jacket]

Katie...when you arrived in Auckland, did you bring this weather with you? We have to have words :)

if it's all still on, be good to put a name to a face at Mission bay later on.

The weather has been fine here for the last couple of days! :p

[Gone Burger]

Yes.. um about this weather, sorry about that. Just a little on the pants side I agree.

As for the job thing. Yes, my employer is well within his rights to do this legally and has followed all the rules. This is the one situation when it is easy to dismiss an employee, and thats just the way it is. Nothing I can do about it but accept it, move on, and make it a good situation, not a negative one. So, all good. I'll figure it all out soon with my plenty of time at home I am sure.

I have just gotten home from drinks out in Auckland. And a huge thank you to all those who came along. Simply wonderful to catch up with some of my oldest, and closest friends, and meet new ones as well.

Bloody top bunch you all are, and I'll be making a comment on another thread tomorrow. Just know I have had a brilliant night, and it's been a blast to have a good laugh and enjoy superb company. Cheers guys 'n girls. I feel on top of the world xxx

[Hinny]

Sorry I missed catching up. Didn't get away from work till this morning.
Deadlines . . . Arrghh!
I'm glad it went well for you.
All the best.

[Nasty]

Good to see you Katie-pie ... just remember what I said ;)

[caseye]

Katiepie, so glad to have made it to Mission Bay last night to have a drink with you and just to say, "Hey, we want you to get well and ride again, one day soon, naturally we want you to be OK and get a JOB and all those other things", but for now little steps and small victories aye.
Hope the sleep thing got a hiding last night and looking forward to those pics that RECKLESS made me take, seeing the light of day on KB.
Take care.

[Number One]

Hey chicky. Great to see that people came out of the woodwork to join you at the pub! Re the job thing, in much the same position - perhaps we can carpool to the unemployment office! Seriously though, I am sure other doors open when old ones close. In my case re my job I say so long suckers! Will no doubt be a good thing when I look back one day.

[mrmeal]

It was awesome to meet you! It was a really great bunch of people last night, good to meet a few new faces. Katie have a safe trip back down to home. Will certainly see you when Team Fat Biker come down to Welly.

[Maha]

Yes.. um about this weather, sorry about that. Just a little on the pants side I agree.

As for the job thing. Yes, my employer is well within his rights to do this legally and has followed all the rules. This is the one situation when it is easy to dismiss an employee, and thats just the way it is. Nothing I can do about it but accept it, move on, and make it a good situation, not a negative one. So, all good. I'll figure it all out soon with my plenty of time at home I am sure.

I have just gotten home from drinks out in Auckland. And a huge thank you to all those who came along. Simply wonderful to catch up with some of my oldest, and closest friends, and meet new ones as well.

Bloody top bunch you all are, and I'll be making a comment on another thread tomorrow. Just know I have had a brilliant night, and it's been a blast to have a good laugh and enjoy superb company. Cheers guys 'n girls. I feel on top of the world xxx

Did anyone bring a Basketball?...:corn:
Ya know ...shoot some hoops at half time...:sunny:

[Fatt Max]

Good to see you KP and all the other rabble, had a great time and learned a few good tips re the best way to wear lingerie.....thanks girls...

[Ratti]

pix FM, we expect pix...

[Hawkeye]

pix FM, we expect pix...

No we don't! Still trying to recover from the last lot. :sick:

[FJRider]

Good to see you KP and all the other rabble, had a great time and learned a few good tips re the best way to wear lingerie.....thanks girls...

How to WEAR it is no use to ME :facepalm: ... I want the most DESIRED method of REMOVAL ... :yes:

I'm told ripping it off is "emergency" only ... :innocent:

[ajturbo]

i am a bit disappointed with some of your mates.....

only one turned up on a bike...

now just who was that brave, hardy, avalible young man???

[caseye]

Hey it was raining wasn't it?
Car! Sorry no contest these days, raining as it had like that all day, only way I was getting there was in 4 windows and with Air Con.
Wouldn't have missed it for anything.
I was impressed that "someone" did show up on a motorcycle, well done mate.

[Gone Burger]

Hey lovely peoples...

I have written a bit of a blog about the chain of events that shaped my accident. My recovery updates I shall continue to put on here. But I have not been able to say much about the actual crash, and am wide awake tonight with my mind going full speed. So, I think writing it down has helped me. And perhaps I can now attempt to sleep, and close my exhausted eyes.

anyone interested, it's here http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/entry.php/2082-A-few-moments-that-shape-the-rest-of-your-life

Being home alone now is bring new challenges each day. All of a sudden, the days have become very long, and I sit here wondering how I am going to pass the time over the next 3 months? I assume a little loneliness is normal and to be expected. I have my dogs home and am very thankful to have them here. But this is a whole knew learning curve for me beginning now.

Love to you all xx Pie

[Ladydragon]

Glad I came the other night to the get together at Mission Bay and was able to met you for the first time was a really good night

[Paul in NZ]

Being home alone now is bring new challenges each day. All of a sudden, the days have become very long, and I sit here wondering how I am going to pass the time over the next 3 months? I assume a little loneliness is normal and to be expected. I have my dogs home and am very thankful to have them here. But this is a whole knew learning curve for me beginning now.



I'll try once more then give up... I have a spare DVD player doing not much (might need it the night of 8 June for the classic club) I'm willing to lend to you plus there is always FATSO where they deliver DVDs to you.

PLUS - I have a lot of interesting books etc. Well OK, I find them interesting, you might not.

PLUS - might I suggest that you try to use this god given gift of time to learn a new skill (drawing or something) that will give you pleasure in the years to come. Maybe someone has an old engine you could pull to bits?

I dunno....

[Billy]

i am a bit disappointed with some of your mates.....

only one turned up on a bike...

now just who was that brave, hardy, avalible young man???

Well obviously not you!The only part of that description that suits you is the last part and that should read "desperate OLD codger" Bwhahahaha ROFLMAO.

[Paul M50]

Hey lovely peoples...

Being home alone now is bring new challenges each day. All of a sudden, the days have become very long, and I sit here wondering how I am going to pass the time over the next 3 months? I assume a little loneliness is normal and to be expected. I have my dogs home and am very thankful to have them here. But this is a whole knew learning curve for me beginning now.

Love to you all xx Pie

Hey Katie you should write an autobiography. You write really well and I'm sure many people would want to read your story. The last chapter has yet to unfold but by the time you get there... Alternatively you could make it a novel if you don't want too many facts to get in the way of a good story!!:yes:

[Gone Burger]

I've added a few pics to my blog as I have only just remembered how to do so. Whoops.

And Paul... thanks again for the kind off. It just seems that I'm pretty hopeless at sitting still, and watching movies. I have plenty on my lap top (and got a DVD player somewhere) but it takes great motivation for me to actually watch them as it's not something I have ever really done in the past.

As for reading, I can not read. My eye sight is permenantly fuzzy from these pins going into my head, and it causes headaches for me to focus on a page so much that I can take it all in. Alas, I can't bend my head either to read comfortably so this is something that I'll be doing plenty of catching up on at a later stage.

I had the lazy boy chair delievered yesterday. ACC had actually denied me the proper chair, and a very basic recliner was delivered. It was huge. And because I'm such a short fry I had to sit right on the edge to bend my legs over, and that left a large gap between me and the back. My OC was furious with ACC, called them, and they finally approved me for a proper chair. They swapped them over yesterday afternoon. And guess what the first thing I did was? I grabbed a coupple of hours kip in my lounge, wrapped up in a blanket in a very comfortable position. Yuuuuuuuus! Success. I got another few hours sleep in it last night so it's all good news from here.

And guess what? I'm not even slightly grumpy today, after getting so sleep. I'm smiling from ear to ear and will now spend the afternoon working on my CV and try and get that up to scratch.

One happy Pie, that's for sure. My fur babies are asleep at my feet, and I have a bottle of V on hand. Today is a very good day. :woohoo:

[Ratti]

u gotta win sometimes eh chook? Good news all round.

[oneofsix]

don't know why ACC try to go the cheap route on things like that. As in your case it must cost them more in the long run.
Glad to see you got a result and can get some sleep.
All the best with the job hunt.

[caseye]

Hey Katiepie, don't let up on ACC, they will always go the el cheapo way first and if you don't complain they'll keep doing it. SIT ON EM GIRL and don't let them up without promising to do it right.
Really glad you got some sleep at last, hope that continues, heal good and remember , little steps.

[Paul in NZ]

Join the library and grab some spoken books?

What about assembling a model motorcycle or summat - prob too fuzzy for that (eyesight?) If you get real bored you could drive over (hell, I'll even pick u up) and paint my barge boards

[John_H]

Yeah KBow. Stick it to da man!

[MarkH]

don't know why ACC try to go the cheap route on things like that.

Is the answer: "because they are useless arseholes?"
If I got it right then what do I win?

[Hawkeye]

Hey Katie, I have a number of audio books on a hard drive if that would interest you.
I'll compile a list of what I have and let you know.:yes:

[sels1]

I've added a few pics to my blog :

Just read it - well done you.

[javawocky]

Join the library and grab some spoken books?...

Or you could catch up on some classics...
http://www.gutenberg.org/browse/categories/1

[MarkH]

Or you could catch up on some classics...
http://www.gutenberg.org/browse/categories/1

Hey Katiepie - since you have to deal with ACC you really should download and listen to the Sunzi (Sun Tsu) - The Art of War.

[javawocky]

Hey Katiepie - since you have to deal with ACC you really should download and listen to the Sunzi (Sun Tsu) - The Art of War.

Reckon she is better off with "Love Among the Chickens" if she has to rely on ACC

[Maha]

Reckon she is better off with "Love Among the Chickens"

But she is not from Reefton.

[brumax]

Hey Katiepie, great reading your blog and progress.
I am really glad to see you are getting sleep and some mobility,
something we will all take for granted,
I went to a Rally in England last weekend, met up with Woodybee and a mate of hers, who has also stayed in NZ, so the talk is, when will we all come back,
i hope it is soon and you are riding, and we can have a tour together,
Big HUGS from sunny scotland xx

[Hinny]

I went to a Rally in England last weekend, met up with Woodybee and a mate of hers, who has also stayed in NZ, so the talk is, when will we all come back,
i

And what were the answers?

[sels1]

I went to a Rally in England last weekend, met up with Woodybee

Thats where most of us meet Woodybee....(at a rally)

[Gone Burger]

I have been sitting here tonight, trying to snap out of it. I have been trying to compose myself and move forward. I have been trying get back to how I am so good at being - positive and bubbly, and nothing is a problem.

But tonight, I am failing. I am unsure why this is. I am confused as to how this came about. The tears are flowing for only the second time for reasons of the accident, and it seems they are not going to stop anytime soon.

Why can't I fight this? This is so out of character for me, and it makes me more upset when I realise that I have no control over it at this particular moment.

I had an interesting weekend, and it seems that this new low may be an after effect from it. I got some bad news by accident on Saturday. I brushed it off, said it wasn't important. I knew I felt so heavy about it, but managed to push it aside. Then I got some great news through by email. This was the lift I was hoping for. All of a sudden the bad news wasn't even slightly an issue. My mind quickly changed this. I soon found out a dear friend of mine had been trying to organise my "good news" as a surprise for me. All of a sudden I now felt that I hadn't achieved this result on my own, that someone had taken that one small victory from me that was mine. I unkindly address my friend, who has a heart of gold and been there for the whole journey, and he is now deeply hurt. Then I allowed the bad news to sink in and it all got to me. The tears began to arrive, and heavily. I couldn't think about any of the positives any more. All I could see in front of me was all that had gone in the wrong direction. And as a result of my lack of control of my thoughts, I hurt a friend in the process. I went out for a night out in town on my own, to catch up with some buddies. Had a great night, and pushed everything else aside. I got home, and I was back to square one. On my own, with my negative thoughts, with wet cheeks.

Tonight I feel like I am back there again. Some great news is on the "halo"countdown. So far it's 9 Weeks down, only 4 to go. 63 days completed, only 28 to go. Not long now. But I feel this may be part of my problem. Out of the blue, and for the very first time I now feel terrified about all that is about to happen. I am so incredibly nervous about getting the halo off. About not being able to hold my own head up properly. I am nervous about not gaining the Independence I have the thought of at the back of my mine. I am worried about how the hell I get a job, in a completely new industry after 10 years. I worry sick about ACC not covering me when I can finally drive to interviews again, and for how long I will be without income for. I am nervous about perhaps spending a further 2 months alone, living on my own in the country, and needing to ask my friends for more help. Help to keep my sane. Help to get my shopping done. Help with my dogs boredom. It terrifies me that the bones in my neck and back may not have healed enough in time, and that the bad fractures may be so easy to re-damage.

For the first time in 9 weeks, I question why all this has happened? As I let the tears come, and no longer fight them and say "I'm just fine, all under control", my white german shepherd is deeply concerned for me. He tried to climb on my lap, with his ears pinned back, and pushes his head hard into my tummy - as if to say "I'll make you feel better mum". I long to be able to lie down next to him on the ground and get my first cuddle through this whole experience. I have never been so desperate for a hug before. and I know all that this dog can fix. He has been at my side for the past 5 years of ups and downs, and have pulled me through everyone of them.

Tonight I am going to sleep. I need to close my exhausted eyes and remember all these exceptional things that have and are happening to me. I need to refocus my thoughts of how to tackle all these next stages alone. I just find it so hard sometimes to step through it on my own. No one to talk to each day. My friends would be more than happy for me to call them, and just talk. But it's not me. I hate to make my problems others, and lean on them so hard for the help I need.

Thanks for letting me write this tonight. I'm in a bad way tonight, as I guess it was just a matter of time. It's time to find new strength and new ways to attack things. Starting tomorrow, I will aim to be a better person and put much of my energy into it.

I apologise to those friends near me who have worn the brunt of all of this. You have seen me at my worst, and I am ashamed I let it get to that point. But know that I still need you there each step of the way, and that I love each and everyone of you for all the love and support you give to me - even on my bad days.

4 weeks to go til the halo is off. I can do this.

[Mom]

4 weeks to go til the halo is off. I can do this.

Bless you sweetie, it is all part of the healing journey you are on is all. You have to have some balance love. You have been so bright and positive through this, you have to expect the lows for balance.

Dont stress about your friends, that is why they are friends, to be there for you when you need them.

Take care lovely.

*hugs*

[oneofsix]

Bless you sweetie, it is all part of the healing journey you are on is all. You have to have some balance love. You have been so bright and positive through this, you have to expect the lows for balance.

Dont stress about your friends, that is why they are friends, to be there for you when you need them.

Take care lovely.

*hugs*

+1 well put Mom
Katie, your friend will understand and recover from the hurt. It might be that most of the hurt is from upsetting you and what you have written will go a long way to heeling it no matter what. I guess its hard for someone with such a joyful personality such as yourself to have to be the receiver rather than the giver but hang in there.
Your German Shepard sounds wonderful.
4 weeks to go and a new stage in the healing process to look forward to.

[Paul in NZ]

Katie

Your emotional mind and your logical mind are two very different beasts and at times seem to have two completely seperate lives. The emotional one does not respond to logic or common sense and I guess every now and then it likes to have a turn at the wheel. Its probably a safety valve - stops you exploding.

Believe it or not - I've been in similar circumstances. You are faced with the boogie man and hes not (well in your mind anyway) a wimpy wee one - we are talking industrial strength giant Tokyo destroying Mothra sized one and you cope, you do all the shit you need to do and you get by - except - every now and then the walls of your defences crack and emotions flood in (its actually called 'flooding' btw) and you cant hold them back. Every imagined situation is taken to the extreme conclusion (oh I'll never walk again etc etc) and you see no possibility of any good all this despite the little logical Katie brain trying to get heard in the backgroud.... 'um - hang on, its not that bad...'

There is not doubt about it that your situation is far from ideal - in fact you have every right to have a few tears, shit I'd be amazed if you didnt so never feel that its unusual. AND it wont be the last time either so best gird yer loins for that too.

However - all the worst case shit you are imagining is very very unlikely to happen. (but you know that)

You have had a very serious injury - there is likely to be some kind of ongoing issues, pain, rehab, limited movement etc etc but you will survive it and it will lessen with time. Life takes its toll on all of us - its a part of being a human being.

Cheer up. You are just bored and in desperate need of a hobby. Personally I like fishing. I totally SUCK at it but you get to stand there and look 'occupied' and ya never know ya might catch a fish...

[\m/]

Sounds like withdrawl symptoms after not riding for so long.

[Paul in NZ]

Sounds like withdrawl symptoms after not riding for so long.

You know - I think its just a bit more serious than that.... :innocent:

[Genie]

aww sweets.....you are travelling a bumpy, jerky road which is testing you on so many levels....and guess what?
You're passing these tests with an amazing amount of courage....the foundations of your life have bought you to this point and you are learning so much about yourself and others.

You bring out the best in everyone because you are one of the best. You have given me so much inspiration when I've been battling with stuff, that in comparsion is a spit in the ocean.

I'd love to have your gracious temperment, your gorgoues zest for life, your amazing ability to share your smile....you my dear, give my strength to be a better person. The world is a better place because you are in it, you give me faith in mankind.

Your fears are natural...and understandable. One day at a time, that is all you can do, reach out to those that love you, they are there to hold your hand, you are not alone. :love:

[Paul M50]

Hey Katie, the stress of your situation is huge. In the same circumstance I'm sure I'd be a complete emotional wreck. You are coping really well. Your friends and fellow bikers will be there for you. Take care.
:hugs:
ps my dog sends a hug too.

[Edbear]

You're not female by any chance...?:innocent:

You're doing fine! Anyone would be emotional at times under the stress of what you're going through! :yes:

:love:

[Paul in NZ]

Hey - if you are bored we could pick you up and you could come surfcasting with us... Its bloody great fun - you stand on a wet beach (usually windy and raining) and fling really expensive shit into the ocean then stand around for AGES waiting for something to happen (other than loosing all your expensive bits), wind it in and repeat. Its amazing and a total cure for being bored.....

as in you never complain about having nothing to do again....

[Ratti]

KP, if you are bored I have shitloads of housework here that needs doing...lawns, a bit of tree trimming, some weeding...clean up my shed ready for the new bike that might be moving in on the weekend...

Our FurPals are brilliant arn't they? My cats have seen me through many nights of tears and pityparties since my Husband died. Life goes on and the sun always rises.

Thinking of you and knowing it will ease in time.

[Bald Eagle]

KP, if you are bored I have shitloads of housework here that needs doing...lawns, a bit of tree trimming, some weeding...clean up my shed ready for the new bike that might be moving in on the weekend...

Our FurPals are brilliant arn't they? My cats have seen me through many nights of tears and pityparties since my Husband died. Life goes on and the sun always rises.

Thinking of you and knowing it will ease in time.

What ? another bike ?? Is it a running one :lol:

[MarkH]

I have been sitting here tonight, trying to snap out of it. I have been trying to compose myself and move forward. I have been trying get back to how I am so good at being - positive and bubbly, and nothing is a problem.

But tonight, I am failing. I am unsure why this is. I am confused as to how this came about. The tears are flowing for only the second time for reasons of the accident, and it seems they are not going to stop anytime soon.

Life if full of ups & downs, I'm confident that in a few months you will have put this behind you. You have a right to be unhappy at times, you have been through a lot, just know that things will get better.

[Number One]

aww sweets.....you are travelling a bumpy, jerky road which is testing you on so many levels....and guess what?
You're passing these tests with an amazing amount of courage....the foundations of your life have bought you to this point and you are learning so much about yourself and others.

You bring out the best in everyone because you are one of the best. You have given me so much inspiration when I've been battling with stuff, that in comparsion is a spit in the ocean.

I'd love to have your gracious temperment, your gorgoues zest for life, your amazing ability to share your smile....you my dear, give my strength to be a better person. The world is a better place because you are in it, you give me faith in mankind.

Your fears are natural...and understandable. One day at a time, that is all you can do, reach out to those that love you, they are there to hold your hand, you are not alone. :love:

+1 and good words for others I know too.

Remember the good stuff and focus on just the next steps. It sort of works for me and the trying is better than the alternative. Also I only allow myself a few hours a week where I really dwell and engage with the biggest worries and hurts I have...that seems to help me put a lid on them in terms of avoiding them bubbling up when it is really not helpful to me! :lol: Other than that I just focus on soldiering through the little bits and pieces ahead as best I can things start to feel a bit more doable slowly but surely.

Anyway really I just wanted to say :hug:

[caseye]

Katiepie, we none of us get a completely clean bill of health once we've been broken and believe me you'se was brok! girl.
Now then, as to these tears, well they come too, nothing anyone of us can do about them, they do one good thing, they make our eyes much cleaner which allows us to see far more clearly.
Remember, little steps mate, take em one at a time until the wobbles stop and you get going with complete balance again.
no one who is a friend of yours could stay mad at/with you for any length of time and if they are in a position to see this post of yours I'd be surprised if they hadn't already been in touch with you.
You are allowed to feel down and in the dumps, it's how you pull yourself out that defines what we all see in you and what makes us smile back when you smile for us!
Being helped by friends is what being a friend is all about, giving when needed, being there in good times and in bad and vanishing when the time is right.
Rest easy, get some sleep in your chair tonight and tomorrow will dawn a little better, I promise.

[Ratti]

What ? another bike ?? Is it a running one :lol:

well, it wasn't on Sunday, mostly battery and a starter issue, not as serious as the ones already in the shed.
Same model tho...4..count 'em dude 4 early80's KZ1000J's....(a valliant attempt to corner the market!)
Hoping to have this one sorted by the BRONZ AGM on the weekend.


You still Metroing to work????

[Maha]

well, it wasn't on Sunday, mostly battery and a starter issue, not as serious as the ones already in the shed.
Same model tho...4..count 'em dude 4 early80's KZ1000J's....(a valliant attempt to corner the market!)
Hoping to have this one sorted by the BRONZ AGM on the weekend.


You still Metroing to work????

Is that another made up word to slap on a hillside?...:rockon:

[sinfull]

Sounds like withdrawl symptoms after not riding for so long.


You know - I think its just a bit more serious than that.... :innocent:

I smell opiates !!!

Pleased to see ya still bloging it all KP ! A message in a "bottle up" don't get out there !

[Smallfishnz]

Katie
It is obvious that you have lots of people that think very highly of you, so don't forget that they are out there and willing to help.

You are in my thoughts constantly and because of that you will never be alone.

God Bless

[sels1]

But tonight, I am failing. .

Thank goodness, you are human after all - I was begining to wonder!

Dont worry, things will fall into place but it will take time. This will pass into history like every other bad (and good) thing thats ever happened.
We'll pop over some time soon

[Genie]

To all of you who have written such beautiful words to Katie-pie, I thank you. She is an adorable young lady and her courage through life before her accident was remarkable and what I have read and seen, since her accident has shown me that she truely is a most amazing young women.

I personally want to thank you for all the encourgement you have given to Katie, which in turn, has shown me that there are some so many amazing people in this world.

Dear, dear, this thread does pull on the hearstrings doesn't it?

[Gone Burger]

It is 12.52am on Friday. Good morning world! There is a gentle drizzle outside, the rural valley is hushed and still, and I sit here pondering so many wonderful things. In the future, on a night just like this, I shall get on my bike and ride a gentle ride. Head to a beautiful location, and take it the stunningly silenced early hours of the morning. Now that is the kind of living that makes me feel so alive!

I have moved past my low point earlier in the week, and now feel rather strange, in a beautiful way. I have never felt so calm before. I am sitting here with a bit of a cheeky smile on my face and I'm not sure how that crept up on me. But I welcome it greatly, and believe that this time it may be here to stay.

I just want each of you to know how much I value your support. Your kind words, your visits, your messages and ideas. I have a huge heart, and room it in for all of you. I am a gentle soul who loves her friends and family to pieces. But you are all special. You have all given me strength and positivity to make something of all this. And I plan to write a full blog about my day to day adventures - from the good, to the bad, to the confusion of it all. But tonight I have strength, and I will be holding onto it for dear life.

Katiepie is back folks, and that is a promise. xxxxxxxxx

[kilgh]

Right, now go to bed!:laugh:

But seriously, glad you are feeling better. Love this weather and time of night myself.

[oneofsix]

Glad to read there is a smile back on that dial. Looking forward to the bubble and bounce in the next post :yes: I hope you are asleep right now as this is posted but enjoy what this gray day has to offer when you wake.

[Gone Burger]

Hello beautiful people.

I have been working on my own website, with photos and blogs for others to see. It is intended to try and help other people in halos cope with this new way of living day to day. i have made a lot of halo friends from all over the world, and what we all lack is access to other people stories. So this is for them.

It's still a work in progress. I am writing new blogs most days to try and update the past 11 weeks or so. But bare with me as I add new entries and photos along the way.

One blog will be of all my face book status updates along the way. That is an interesting one on it's own and shows the true pattern of up down up down.

2 weeks to go folks til I'm halo free. Please excuse my language but fuck im exceited!

www.katiepie.webs.com

[blackdog]

Hello beautiful people.


www.katiepie.webs.com

bookmarked.

taking lemons and making lemonade. keep it up!

[Geeen]

2 weeks to go folks til I'm halo free. Please excuse my language but fuck im exceited!
]

No apologies needed, Yay for you :woohoo: It's been awesome following this thread and seeing you positive outlook pull you through the less than fun times. Keep it up :yes:

[caseye]

We're all counting down the days with you Katiepie, don't think for a moment we're not.
The blog and the web site, typical, just typical shes' beaten everyone else to a new angle on getting by with a cage on yer noodle.Good on ya mate.Can't possibly be a bad thing and if it's good for you, it must be good for them, aye.
Glad to see that happy faces again.
Keep well and remember, small steps, K.

[Gone Burger]

Wowie - what a ride this is all prooving to be. This has sure been the ride of my life!!! Ups, downs, sideways, wrong way up, right way up, backwards and forwards. But the official count down has begun. 10 days from today until the removal of my halo.

I have done little updating on here recently as I have been full steam ahead writing my blogs and updating my new website. I am loving doing it, and it seems that once I start writing I can't stop.

Yesterday I went to meet the rescue team from the Wespac Rescue Helicpoter. It was a day that I shall never forget, and one that made me so very happy, in so many ways. These people were gorgeous people. All of them. All passionate for what they do, and all that the Life Flight Trust represents. And they are all in it to help people. It is so warming to meet such humble people, and it makes you want to strive to be a better person. It's givin me even more of a push to be a good person, and a genuine one. I got a scrupmtious cuddle from Dave Greenberg who was the team leader of my rescue on the night. I must admit, that was the closest thing I have had to a real hug since the crash. And I am desperate for a proper hug. I almost had the cheek to ask him for another one as it was so lovely, and greatly needed it seems.

I did a full write up on my latest blog on my website.

Feel free to swing by from time to time and do a little reading. I'll still come back in here with main updates, but its the detail I want to go into, and the website is perfect for. www.katiepie.webs.com

10 days to go. I am a bag of completely mixed emotions. I think this will be my hardest time to be on my own, as I step through this scary new stage, and find the new strengths that I have along the way.

mmmm now who to ask for my first hug from when I am free?

Halo off party coming up at the Parrot and Jigger in Wellington soon. Details TBC but everyone MUST wear a halo - except me :P haha! Open to interpretation.

Loads of love, Pie

[White trash]

Halo off party coming up at the Parrot and Jigger in Wellington soon. Details TBC but everyone MUST wear a halo - except me :P haha! Open to interpretation.

Cool. I'm gonna wear a halo around my ball-bag.

[NZsarge]

Cool. I'm gonna wear a halo around my ball-bag.

Farmers call that a docking (or castration ring), ya sure ya wanna go there?

[White trash]

Farmers call that a docking (or castration ring), ya sure ya wanna go there?

I've only got little nuts, it'll be right........

[Gone Burger]

Farmers call that a docking (or castration ring), ya sure ya wanna go there?

If he wont, I will :innocent: - He has been in my undies draw

[NZsarge]

I've only got little nuts, it'll be right........
Righty-o then....

If he wont, I will :innocent: - He has been in my undies draw
:facepalm: oh dear... :laugh:

[Crasherfromwayback]

If he wont, I will :innocent: - He has been in my undies draw

Been in? He tried them all on.

[Gone Burger]

Arse. I have a cold. The one thing I didn't want to have in a halo and I have it. Sneezing is the worst thing, and you need to prepare for every single sneeze as it approaches. Plus my throat is so sore than I am not eating much nor drinking as it hurts to swallow food and liquid (yes I have lost 4kg already these past few months). And having this sore throat is keeping me awak for the very precious couple of hours sleep that I usually manage to steel each night. Coughing is wearing out my abs carry the full weight of my upper body and harness each time my stomach contracts. Something as simple as having a cold is proving to be utterly exhausting, and I really hope with all fingers crossed that it buggers off pretty quick smart. I'm not usually such a sook, but I have managed to adjust to living in a halo and would simply prefer not to have this added challenge. But hey, what's a life without challeneges huh? I've faced many these past 2 years, surely I can handle a cold in my last week. Someone up there must sureley be having a little joke with me? Must you really make me have a cold as I get to my last week in this thing? I wish I could see the funny side, but alas my sense of humour must have been lost with all that sleep I havn't been getting. Funny buggers!

5 days to go now folks. So thought I would post up in here that I'm having drinkies to celebrate life returning to normal just a little soon. Details are as below:

Halo off Party

When? - Friday, June 24 · 7:00pm - 10:00pm

Where? - Parrot and Jigger, Lowerr Hutt

After 91 days in captivity I am going to be released back into the wild.
My halo off appointment is on the 20th - all going to plan (ALL FINGERS CROSSED!) This jungle gym will come off.

Come and celebrate with me the fact the I'l be halo free. It's a proud point for me to get to, and a very exciting one. What better way to share my big grin other than a drinks with friends at a usual spot!

Dress code:
I expect you all to wear a halo, except me :innocent:
This is open to interpretaion - any form of a halo. There will be a prize for the best halo on the night.

Not a big night folks, I won't have a lot of energy. But enough time for a few drinks and a bite to eat.

A small bar tab will be on for the first few there. A small way of saying thanks to you all for your support right through, and keeping me sane.

Feel free to invite anyone I may have missed. I blame the drugs. Still.

There is a very SMALL chance that the halo stays on after my appointment. Won't know until the 20th but 5% chance that it stays on. will let you know

See some of you there. Loads of love, Pie.

[caseye]

Have fun and KICK THAT COLD! Will be there in spirit, with a Nalo on too.

[Paul in NZ]

Pooh! I hate colds....

You need any meds or anything?

[oneofsix]

that sounds like the man flu :killingme:
A stiff whiskey or two will help with the cough:msn-wink:
:drinkup: to freedom from the halo.

[Gone Burger]

After 12 weeks my pin sites had finally calmed down for a few days and were not sore or bleeding.

Thanks to so much sneezing they are now in a poorly way again and very tender indeed. Poo. That's all I can say.

And gees.... I thought I had abs of steel before from the halo harness, but they are even better now. Rock solid from couching and boucning my full upper body weight off them from the harness.

Still smiling, but really, this is just a tad crap. 1/2 hour sleep last night and no food in 2 days. And I thought this final week was gonna be easy? Dumb blonde.

[MarkH]

Having a cold sucks big time, but when you got the Halo it was for 3 months, now it is only for 5 more days - you have to be grateful for the end being so near! Pity the cold couldn't have stayed the fuck away for at least another week!

[Gone Burger]

Yes, I know. I'm such a dick. But at the moment it's the smallest things that amuse and please me and right now I couldn't be smiling more. And naturally, I wanted to share it with you all.

I have just done my second solo hair wash in 8 weeks. This time it only took 1hour and 40 minutes and has left me utterly exhausted with a very sore neck and back. BUT I now have clean hair and can wear it out of a pony tail for the first time in 2 months.

I was so over the pins and went ahead and soaked them with the water. And also got shampoo in the pins sites too. After cleaning them all with Sodium Chloride they are simply stinging like mad. But do I care? HELL NO! I have clean hair that almost looks blonde again, and will not be able to knock this smile of my face for my last two days in halo traction. I feel like a new person. Not to mention smell sooooooooo much better. Thank god I'm single, that's all I can. If I wasn't before I sure would have been by now.

:banana: TWO DAYS FOLKS! :banana:

Far out, no sleep for 7 nights now and I know I'm way too excited tonight to get any. Anyone up for a party next week? I'm going to be on form!

[caseye]

Go Directly to BED do Not Pass GO! do not collect 2Hundy. LOL sounds like yer going to be unstoppable soon katiepie. Good on ya mate.

[NZsarge]

Awesome! 2 days 'till freedom, gonna be a joy full day to be sure. Will keep an eye on this thread to here how you get on...

[Gone Burger]

After 90 days, I have reached my final day in halo traction.

Below I have just copied and pasted this mornings blog from my website. I can't describe how I feel any other way.



***90 Days down, I must complete this last 1.
Posted by Katie-Jane Bowen on June 19, 2011 at 7:43 AM

I have awoken after a full night of 2 hours sleep.

I am confused, and I can't shake it. It is raining outside, and I hear the lovely kind rain drops fall on my iron roof. My dogs sit at the back door whispering mermers to me that they are unimpressed with still being out there. I can hear the birds welcome the new day with the sweetest of tweets.

So why, underneith all of that, can I hear the drone of a helicopter? I sat here in bed for an hour in disbelief of this sound. I tried with all my might to shake it, and bring my mind back to reality. But there it is. In the far distance, as if it has landed. Other noises continue, come and go, but this one is staying and confuses me more by the minute.

Today is officially 3 months (day wise, not date wise) sice my crash. Is my mind really this exhausted to be playing such tricks on me? Am I finally hearing the helicopter that my memory won't allow from the day of my accident? I don't understand it. How do I control my brain on this last day in halo traction?

How long will today be? Will it be kind to me, make me smile and giggle as I so love to do? Will I get everything done in time for my interview, and then be able to spend the rest of my afternoon napping in my lazy boy recliner? My skin on my forehead is so tight. Tighter than it's ever been. And the pin sites are not in a good way. The two front pins have been weaping all night, and I am feeling the after effects of them misbehaving. I now feel around my front left pin, and realise just how much the skin has grown out and along the pin. This is going to be both messy, and very painful tomorrow during removal. I know I'm going to cry, but is that normal? Should I be tougher than that and just adapt to a time of pain? Will my friend drop me home straight after my appointment for me to sit in my house alone, feeling a little flat and lonely? I do not know why I can not control these thoughts today and it seems I have not had nearly enough sleep to battle them.

So much to do today, so little energy to do it. My head aches from these aweful sharp pins screwed into my skull. Tomorrow morning can't come fast enough to get these out of my head and away from me forever.

Who can I talk to tomorrow, and share my excitement with, share my sheer joy with? I know I won't be able to with my friend who is taking me to my appointment as he is a man who rarely allows me to share these things in a serious or humble way. He will however make me laugh right through the whole morning, and see the lighter side of it all. He will be much appreciated for taking me there, and getting me home safely again. But who am I going to share my happiness with? I know that answer to that. My dogs. I know they are going to feel how I am feeling. I know my white german shepherd will allow me to be sooky if need be, happy if need be, or just my usual positive self.

Why won't this sound of a helicopter go away? What a strange way to start my final day.

I want sugar. I want an energy drink and some buscuits. But I have not been to the supermarket this week, and have run low on my supplies. I hope to be able to sneak in there on the way home from hospital tomorrow to get some comfort food that always makes me feel better. I'm a small girl, who eats a lot of rubbish. But it's a simple fact that I feel like some, that I want some today.

I shall have to go without and find other ways to get energy today. I have my interview with the newspaper this afternoon. I am nervous. Not really for what I'll say or how it will go, but at my friends reaction when they realise I have said yes to it. During these 3 months I have learnt a lot about people. I have quietly watched them as time has gone by, and gotten to know people better. Friends, some close friends. Some have simpy left me to it, to get on with it. Others have supported me closely, and been there for me since day one. And others have offerd full support to my face, yet feel I am doing any writing, facebook, interviews etc for attention. It's these people that I am now cautious of with good reason. People always say that it's in true situations like this that we learn peoples true colours. I couldn't agree more. And it has been a learning experience that I have needed in life.

How I long to close my eyes now, lie down in my gorgeous bed and snuggle up. I love to go back to sleep for the morning and allow my utterly exhasuted body and mind to catch up and recharge. But I know that is still a few moments away. I can be patient. I will wait. I will keep smiling, and mean it.

Today is my last day. I have nearly made it. And I am proud to say that I can take almost full credit on that one.***


www.katiepie.webs.com

[Crasherfromwayback]

Today is my last day. I have nearly made it. And I am proud to say that I can take almost full credit on that one.***


Nearly there! Best wishes for today. Let us know if you need/want us to bring you anything.

Ps: That noise ain't a helicopter Love, it's the rumble of Jimmy's exhaust. He'll be peeping through your windows again.

[caseye]

Hope your still in bed when this one shows up on the threads. Rest rest and more rest young missy.
Tomorrow will be here at the same time it always is so don't fret just hurry up and wait.
Good luck with tomorrow, may that nasty ol Nalo be banished for all time, with pain comes crying, its allowed.
Look forward to seeing your report tomorrow Katiepie.

[Oblivion]

Good Ol' Katie :woohoo:

Finally getting that Halo off after 3 long months. You've done us all proud. Bet theres a lot off people that will be dying to have drinkies with you after this is all done and dusted.

Take care and binge all you want :banana:

[sinned]

Bonjour Katie

Best wishes for today. Take it easy, follow all the medics advice and don't try anything too adventurous until you regain strength - this probably includes staying off bikes for a while.

The day is just beginning here in Bourgueil France. Summer in southern France brings out lots of motorcycles - you may one day be cruising these roads.

Au revoir

[\m/]

All the best for today, saw your story on stuff this morning.

[chanceyy]

good luck today chick next step on the recovery road :)

[PrincessBandit]

All the best for today, saw your story on stuff this morning.

Me too, just finished reading it. Incredible article on an incredible lady.

Hope all goes well for the big un-haloing! Even though there will still be challenges ahead your strength, determination and support from family and friends will get you through.

All the very best.

[rustyrobot]

Wow - front page news! All the best for today. You don't know me but I've been following your blog and it's been really moving and inspiring. Your courage in the face of adversity is something we can all learn from!

[nadroj]

Wow - front page news! All the best for today. You don't know me but I've been following your blog and it's been really moving and inspiring. Your courage in the face of adversity is something we can all learn from!

X2 You even made the Taranaki daily news!

[oneofsix]

Wow - front page news! All the best for today. You don't know me but I've been following your blog and it's been really moving and inspiring. Your courage in the face of adversity is something we can all learn from!

+1 on what he (or is it and it for a rusyrobot?) said. Haven't read the article yet, that's next, the boss can wait. Hold on while I dry my eyes after reading your blog. Good luck with the halo, hopefully its removal will allow you to get some proper sleep. You have some great friends and from what I've seen on here there are a few of them that wont mind a damp shoulder should you require it, just watch out for nurse Max and Dr Ratti.

[sinfull]

Nice to read !

See ya out there chick !

[Paul in NZ]

All the best for today Katie.... Vicki and I hope it goes well for you.

Lifes a blast and I suspect no matter what you will find a way to enjoy yourself...

[carbonhed]

Good luck for today. That'll be a huge step forward.

[Bald Eagle]

All the best for today, nice pics, great blogging.

[EJK]

Is this you?

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5164893/Halo-off-then-back-on-the-bike

[boman]

Good luck with today Katie. I really hope all goes well.

[Gone Burger]

Is this you?

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5164893/Halo-off-then-back-on-the-bike

Nope - not me. Some other tart that wanted to get in the paper.

WHOOPS! I thought it was going to be a lot more subtle than that.

See you all soon, I can't explain what a mixed bag of emotions I am right now as I head off to hospital. Love you all to pieces, and rely on your support quite heavily.

xxxxxxx

[EJK]

Nope - not me. Some other tart that wanted to get in the paper.

WHOOPS! I thought it was going to be a lot more subtle than that.

See you all soon, I can't explain what a mixed bag of emotions I am right now as I head off to hospital. Love you all to pieces, and rely on your support quite heavily.

xxxxxxx

Good luck today :-)

[C.Linnell]

Congrats on the Dominion Post coverage!

And how effortlessly you manage to look dashing while lying in the grass with a broken neck...

[Hans]

Congrats on the Dominion Post coverage!

And how effortlessly you manage to look dashing while lying in the grass with a broken neck...

I have to disagree. While Katie IS effortlessly dashing just about all the time, in that photo she looks like she's dead. Just plain dead. It is easily one of the most disturbing things I've ever seen in my lifetime, and I've seen a few.

[Paul in NZ]

WHOOPS! I thought it was going to be a lot more subtle than that.

Nothing says subtle like the front page of the Dom Post and STUFF....

[Paul in NZ]

I have to disagree. While Katie IS effortlessly dashing just about all the time, in that photo she looks like she's dead. Just plain dead. It is easily one of the most disturbing things I've ever seen in my lifetime, and I've seen a few.

True - she looks more dashed than dashing.... But its not the most disturbing thing I've seen.... I mean you HAVE been on a KB ride havent you?

[sels1]

But its not the most disturbing thing I've seen.... I mean you HAVE been on a KB ride havent you?
:laugh: ...on more than 1 occasion...:laugh:

All the best for today KP, look forward to hearing the aftermatch comments

[allycatz]

Well you mite be losing ya halo but you'll still be our angel, hope it all goes well sweets!!

[Hinny]

. While Katie IS effortlessly dashing just about all the time, in that photo she looks like she's dead. Just plain dead.

Certainly not a good look.

Hope the Halo removal affords you some sleep.
Can't believe how little sleep you manage to survive on. Have they got you on P Pie?

[pritch]

Like the man said, "That's tough".

Surgery on screen, that puts you up there with Barry Sheen.
I bet you were glad when that was over.
Look after yourself.

[Zamiam]

Nothing subtle about being on TV3 news. Best of luck for the remainder of your recovery. You're an inspiration young lady :2thumbsup