Hitcher's Grand Challenge Misadventure

[James Deuce]

Hitcher is in ICU at Palmerston North Hospital after being found unconscious and trapped under his bike on the Pongaroa to Waipukurau leg of this year's Grand Challenge. First on scene was a GP participating in the GC and he quickly re-established an airway and organised the ambulance.

Hitcher remained unconscious and unresponsive and has been kept that way until recently. Mrs Hitcher has just informed me that he is off the ventilator, breathing on his own and responding to his parents and Mrs Hitcher appropriately but not with his normal force of personality as yet.

At this stage it appears that Hitcher may have suffered a gentle subdural bleed and may have realised something was up as it appears he toppled from his bike at very low speed and suffered only minor grazing on knuckles and one heel as a result.

Mrs Hitcher has asked me to post this update and to communicate any further updates. She is rather busy, as you can imagine so please remember that the outcome is not clear at this stage and Mrs Hitcher and Hitcher's other family members will need a bit of time and space to understand the implications of this event. I will be happy to pass on anything anyone posts in this thread.

[Paul in NZ]

Good onya for being your usual good bastard james d... Shit - what a thing...

Please pass on our regards to Mrs H and as I told you earlier. If there is anything we can do please let me know. We are kinda halfway to palmy so could do a shuttle if anythings needed...

What a crappy thing to hppen to anyone....

[chanceyy]

Heal up soon Hitcher, good to know others are watching out for each other

Mrs H :hug:

ps close to palmy here & am sure others in manawatu can offer help/accomodation if required

[Crasherfromwayback]

Heal up real soon mate! And thanks for the post Jim.

[dogsnbikes]

Not good.........get well soon

[Mom]

All love and positive thoughts and prayers winging their way to the Hitchers. J2 can you please convert that to a Mom hug when you see them? Thanks for letting us know.

[RiderInBlack]

Hope Hitcher:hitcher: heals well. I'd hate ta think what KB will get like without him (like ya know spell mistakes and stuff:blink:).
Get well Hitcher. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Doug (The Rider In Black)

[Kickaha]

What a crappy thing to hppen to anyone....


Aint it just

Thanks for letting us know,pass on mine and Jo's best wishes for a quick recovery

[Devil]

Get well soon, Hitch. :scooter:

[Fatt Max]

Get well soon Hitcher, thoughts and best wishes from Fatt, Mrs and Mini Max

[NZsarge]

I will be happy to pass on anything anyone posts in this thread.

Could you please pass on my best wishes for the best out come. Bad news indeed, get well as soon as possible Mr Hitcher.

[MadDuck]

Crikey thats awful news. Get well soon sir!

[Pussy]

Wishing Brett a speedy recovery

[NZsarge]

If any help with the bike is needed let me know.

[Gibbo89]

Hope you are back up and riding soon Hitcher.

[mikeey01]

Good onya for being your usual good bastard james d...

I second this!

[Kendog]

Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

[Quasi]

Thats shocking news and i know we will all be praying for a good recovery for Brett. Hugs to the all the family esp Mrs H.

[Virago]

Deeply saddened by the news.

Mutley and I are both wishing for a speedy recovery.

[Maha]

Beast wish's an a spedy recovery Hutcher.

[Trudes]

Sending good thoughts and best wishes to both mr and mrs Hitcher. Kia kaha and heal up soon Brett.:hug:
T.

[Ocean1]

Cheers Jim, please give them both my best and bear me in mind if help is req'd.

And this:
realised something was up as it appears he toppled from his bike at very low speed. sounds like it may have been a life saver.

[far queue]

Best wishes and get well soon.

[ducatilover]

Best wishes to a speedy recovery from the Duclover stablemates. :yes:

[tigertim20]

Fuck.
all the best for a speedy recovery hitcher. a shitty thing to have happen. theres alot of people already praying for you, and i hope all that positive energy assists you in your recovery.:yes:

[scumdog]

What a crappy thing to hppen to anyone....

Dead right!

And who the hell will monitor the KB 'english'?


Ass, ass, ass... that'll spark him into full Hitcher mode!!:woohoo:

[Swoop]

Bugger!
The very best wishes for a swift and complete recovery Hitch.

Thoughts go out to Mrs Hitch. Not the best thing the "man of the household" should be putting you through.

[Virago]

The BDOTGNZA are rallying - standards will be upheld.

[Hawkeye]

Best wishes Mr & Mrs Hitcher. Get well soon Brett.

[NUTBAR]

all the best for recovery , hope hes back on the road soon,

[Big Dave]

Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Wot he said.

[Paul in NZ]

The irony of my spelling mistakes and awful gramma in my first post saddens me..

Blimmin eck. what an arse I am... Still, been sendin out the good vibes all afternoon, hope its helpin..

[AllanB]

I shall ensure I take the Hornet for a good long ride next weekend in his honor.

Best regards for the family and a speedy recovery.

[Mental Trousers]

:gob:

wtf?? That's nasty. So they don't know what caused the bleed yet?? Hope he comes through it alright.

[Owl]

What a sucky thing to happen. All the best Mr Hitcher and get well soon.

[scumdog]

The BDOTGNZA are rallying - standards will be upheld.


Wot 'e sed.

Get well soon - the standards are slipping faster than Gypsy Rose Lees knickers...

[Usarka]

All of the above. Best wishes from me too.

Oh, and ass biscuits!

[davebullet]

Gud dam it. I am surprised and shocked someone as deaft at the bars as Mr. Hitcher would fall. I wouldn't be surprised if fowl weather or poultry road conditions contributed.

Incorrect spelling aside - best wishes for a speedy and full recovery.

[DEVVIL]

What a sucky thing to happen. All the best Mr Hitcher and get well soon.

What he said........

[Pussy]

You buggers with your piss poor spelling are in for it when Hitcher gets back on here.
Going to be a lot of carnage! :)

[Nasty]

Not something I like to see when I wake from a nana nap. Hitcher ... recover well!

[Jantar]

Dead right!

And who the hell will monitor the KB 'english'?


Arse, arse, arse ... that'll spark him into full Hitcher mode!!:woohoo:
There. Corrected for you. In lieu of the infraction you should get I'll accept a single malt next time I'm at your place. :innocent:

[Oakie]

The BDOTGNZA are rallying - standards will be upheld.
Indeed they will!
Best wishes to the Hitchers. If I was a man of faith I guess I'd pray for him but alas, I'm not. I'll just worry and hope for the best instead.

[vifferman]

Well, that's rather shocking news.:blink:
Please pass on my best wishes to Brett and his goodly wife, and wish them all the best.

[marty]

what a ass of a thing too happen. a speedie ful recovery is expected !

[Winston001]

The BDOTGNZA are rallying - standards will be upheld.

My thoughts too. :D

Hang in there Hitcher, hospital isn't much fun but its the safest place for you. Heard about you earlier today and my heart goes out to you and your family.

[pritch]

Sad news. As one gets older the thought occurs that, metaphorically speaking, we never know what's around the next corner.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery Hitcher.

[scumdog]

Sad news. As one gets older the thought occurs that, metaphorically speaking, we never know what's around the next corner.



True.

Enjoy it while you've got it...

[banditrider]

I don't want to go into it too much here but myself and another rider were first on the scene and it was certainly not a nice thing to come across. For a while there things were very tense and it was a relief when the Beemer riding doctor arrived and took charge. We were in a very isolated spot and it was around 45mins before the first emergency vehicles arrived but they were obviously very efficient and we soon had him in the ambulance for a short ride to the chopper.

I am very relieved to hear that Brett's condition has improved since I last saw him and wish him all the best for a speedy recovery.

[Movistar]

All the best for a speedy recovery Hitcher, look forward to seeing you posting here again soon!

[2wheeldrifter]

All the best, hope you be fit and ready for the summer fun to come....

Thanks too to the GP participating in the GC who got an airway open... thanks to you we still have Hither to hassle.....


Well done Banditrider.... :)

[scumdog]

I
I am very relieved to hear that Brett's condition has improved since I last saw him and wish him all the best for a speedy recovery.

Bret?
Is THAT his real name?

Get well soon Brett!

[Fatjim]

Brett

GWS Hitch.

[duckonin]

Fight hard Hitcher, you will soon be back in the saddle, take care till then....:yes:

[cave weta]

Jeez- its all been said already!- I gulped when I read it- then read more and see that you are on the up, thanks to all those people involved in the incedent. Get well soon Hitch.
(I'll try and fill in for you a little till you get back)

[Bikemad]

get well soon Hitcher..........lookin forward to some more warnings soon

[rwh]

Shit.

I hope to bump into you at lunch in the not too distant future Hitcher.

Richard

[Scouse]

Sorry to hear about your misadventure there Hitcher bit fortunate about that doc being the next on scene though eh get well soon

[Little Miss Trouble]

Get well soon Hitcher

[onearmedbandit]

Wow, that's terrible news. Glad there were riders that could assist immediately. Get well soon Brett.

[gijoe1313]

Bugger. Never a good thing to hear about, get well soon and don't take any wooden nickels y'hear?

[trailblazer]

at least it was a slow drop and not i high speed one. Get well soon hitch

[Al]

Bugger!
Get well soon Brett...

[James Deuce]

I don't want to go into it too much here but myself and another rider were first on the scene and it was certainly not a nice thing to come across. For a while there things were very tense and it was a relief when the Beemer riding doctor arrived and took charge. We were in a very isolated spot and it was around 45mins before the first emergency vehicles arrived but they were obviously very efficient and we soon had him in the ambulance for a short ride to the chopper.

I am very relieved to hear that Brett's condition has improved since I last saw him and wish him all the best for a speedy recovery.

Good work chap. He wasn't helicoptered after all and took approx 3.5 hours to get to hospital with a few stops to stabilise Brett's condition on the way.

SCU aren't investigating so there will be no charges laid as a result. The SCU cop was very good value (motorcyclist himself) and went and picked up Brett's gear from the Pahiatua Police station and brought it back to Palmerston North.

I'll be going back up tonight or tomorrow morning so I'll print the thread off and take it with me.

[Quasievil]

Get well soon Hitcher, not good to read this news, we wish you the best.

[yungatart]

I don't like these threads...please pass on my best wishes to Hitcher.
Here's to a speedy and complete recovery!
Give both him and Mrs H a Tarty hug, will you Jim?

[Riff Raff]

All the best for a quick and full recovery Mr H. Goodness me, the lengths you will go to drag me back onto KB :yes:

[banditrider]

He wasn't helicoptered after all and took approx 3.5 hours to get to hospital with a few stops to stabilise Brett's condition on the way. .

Ok, I guess that means he wasn't in too much danger (I hope). Please keep thread updated with his condition. I've got little internet access at the moment but will be checking in as often as I can.

[sinned]

221565Get well soon Hitcher, bad luck for you 6th GC, I hope you make the next one. Here is a photo of you on the Aprilla just before heading off from Turangi.

[Her_C4]

I suddenly feel a bit ill myself :(

The very best of best wishes and good healthy thoughts are winging their way to you Brett and big hugs to Mrs H and family. xx

If there is ANYthing at all I can do - please let me know.

[MSTRS]

A big shock. Only slightly relieved that it appears medical, not motorcycle.
Best wishes to Brett for a speedy recovery and return to full health.

[Okey Dokey]

Get well soon, Hitcher:sunny: So sorry to hear of your mishap- thanks for sharing the news jamesdeuce.

[merv]

This is awful news and Hitch I hope you do recover well and best wishes to Mrs Hitcher as she copes with this.

[Toaster]

A big shock. Only slightly relieved that it appears medical, not motorcycle.
Best wishes to Brett for a speedy recovery and return to full health.

Ditto. Get well soon. If it is a medical condition, it may affect his licence. Hopefully it is not an issue that will rule him out from riding once recovered.

[Ronin]

Wholey, Carp.

Not a good read at all first, thing in the mornings''''''


Get well soon Hitch. We need more gah thuds if you know what I mean.

Best wishes to you and yours from myself and Foxzee

[rustyrobot]

What sad news. All the best for a speedy recovery. This site may well descend into chaos without your guiding hand. How fortunate to have that doctor along on the ride! Good on you guys who were first on the scene for keeping your cool and doing what needed to be done. Look forward to reading the good news of your recovery on here.

[James Deuce]

Hitcher as managed the transition from ventilated to breathing by himself, and has roused sufficiently from time to time to acknowledge people and grin at questions he doesn't know the answer to.

He will be transferred to a ward later today.

[NordieBoy]

Give him a newspaper and a pen.

When he starts correcting speeling mistakes then he's recovered.

[Chisanga]

Hitcher is one of those invincible types that you really think nothing will ever happen too. Although we never really communicated it is still quite a shock to read about what happened.

I sincerely wish you all the best and hope you have a speedy recovery.

Thoughts go to you, your family and to your friends who must worried sick right now.

[Deano]

Hitcher as managed the transition from ventilated to breathing by himself, and has roused sufficiently from time to time to acknowledge people and grin at questions he doesn't know the answer to.

He will be transferred to a ward later today.

That is good to hear.

All the best Hitcher !!

[bungbung]

Best wishes Hitcher, and supportiveness for Mrs Hitcher

[nudemetalz]

I just got this news from Jim.
Man, talk about shock !!!!! :shit:

Thinking of you Brett and Jane.

[Beemer]

Not the kind of news you like to hear about friends. Brett and Jane, take care and we'll be here if you need anything.

[shafty]

Not good, but pleased to hear of early positive signs too, good Vibes coming your way, from my crankshaft to yours - all the Verry Breast

[bistard]

I was shocked to get on KB just now & found this out
Get well soon Brett

[Beemer]

Good to hear from Mrs H before. Brett's not up to visitors yet but I'm sure he'll be in our thoughts and we'll be ready with the grapes (and sly grog...) when he's up to it.

[kiwifruit]

Heal well Sir.

[Paul in NZ]

Ok, I guess that means he wasn't in too much danger (I hope). Please keep thread updated with his condition. I've got little internet access at the moment but will be checking in as often as I can.

Unfortunately it doesnt mean that.:blink: It can (for instance) mean that some things are really hard to do in a chopper - like stopping to stabilise him...

Well done for stopping and doing what you could man... :yes: Bloody good effort, musta been a hell of a shock for everyone.

[p.dath]

That sounds terrible. Get well soon Hitcher!

I bet it wont belong before your spotting the grammar mistakes again. :-)

[MSTRS]

I bet it won't be long before you're again spotting the grammar mistakes. :-)

He has deputies...

[onearmedbandit]

He has deputies...

Hahahahaha!

[James Deuce]

Brett will be moved to Ward 29 this afternoon.

Cards & Flowers to
Brett Sangster
Ward 29
Palmerston North Hospital
50 Ruahine Street
Palmerston North 4442

Thanks
Jim

[martybabe]

Distressing news, Get well soon 'The Hitch' may your absence from KB and the saddle be a very brief one.

All the best from The martybabes

[The Pastor]

Hope you get better soon mate.

[James Deuce]

One can also email thoughts and hopes to a patient at Palmerston North Hospital.

http://www.midcentraldhb.govt.nz/PatientsVisitors/GeneralInfo/EmailPatients.htm

[XP@]

If things like this can happen to anyone at any time then why the bloody hell does it always happen to the good bastards?

Recover well because next years challenge awaits!

[Ronin]

One can also email thoughts and hopes to a patient at Palmerston North Hospital.

http://www.midcentraldhb.govt.nz/PatientsVisitors/GeneralInfo/EmailPatients.htm

One has done so. One should not be surprised should one get extra sponge baths.

[Maha]

He has deputies...

.....ahhhhhh but do they have the chest pin the badge on?....:corn:

[MSTRS]

We don' neeed no steeenkin' badge...

[Insanity_rules]

WOW! Heal well Brett. Sending you my best wishes buddy.

[NordieBoy]

.....ahhhhhh but do they have the chest to pin the badge on?....:corn:

Gotta keep up the standards ya know...

[sunhuntin]

crap! not good news. :crybaby:

heal quickly, hitch. wont be the same here til you are back!

[Quasi]

One can also email thoughts and hopes to a patient at Palmerston North Hospital.

http://www.midcentraldhb.govt.nz/PatientsVisitors/GeneralInfo/EmailPatients.htm

Thanks for the updates Jim. Email option is great - now we can bombard him with best wishes. We will make the lovely old bugger better through the sheer power of our affection for him.

[Smifffy]

I am glad to hear that he is now out of ICU. Best wishes for a fast and full recovery.

[Oakie]

.....ahhhhhh but do they have the chest pin the badge on?....:corn:

Mine goes right through my nipple.

[howdamnhard]

Bugger! Get well soon Hitcher.

[Skunk]

Bugger Brett! Get well soon.

[tri boy]

All the best Hitcher.
Not sure what is worsererer,
th injury, or being stuck in Palmy

Do Not eat the grapes.

[Gremlin]

good to hear you're making progress. Didn't like the first snippets I heard, and my heart dropped when I finished and was told it was a shiver. I suppose its coz I passed you?? Get well soon, I'll even let you pass me back :D

[James Deuce]

Good Morning folks.

The lovely Mrs Hitcher has requested that visitors be kept to a minimum until further notice as the doctors have requested a low stimulus environment.

Hitcher isn't himself yet and gets confused very easily and has short-term memory loss.

Thank you again for all your thoughts and wishes.

[wysper]

Even though I have never met Hitcher, I feel I know him a little from his posts here. I am trying to use correct grammar and spelling in this post!

My best wishes to Mr and Mrs Hitcher and their family. A worrying and traumatic time I'm sure.

All the best to all of you.

[nadroj]

Here's hoping the "melon" has a quick and thourough recovery.

[NordieBoy]

Here's hoping the "melon" has a quick and thourough recovery.

Quite a bit of melon to recover there...

[sinfull]

Ya don't log on for a few days and all hell breaks loose, Not good to hear the news, but relieved yr in good hands and on the mend Hitch ! Best wishes to you and yr lovely Wife !

[Okey Dokey]

Quite a bit of melon to recover there...

Ain't that the truth!

[Ronin]

Good Morning folks.


Hitcher isn't himself yet and gets confused very easily and has short-term memory loss.



So he is now a normal KB member?

Thanks for the updates.

[Banditbandit]

Shit damm ...

Get well soon mate ...

[Crasherfromwayback]

Good Morning folks.

The lovely Mrs Hitcher has requested that visitors be kept to a minimum until further notice as the doctors have requested a low stimulus environment.

Hitcher isn't himself yet and gets confused very easily and has short-term memory loss.

Thank you again for all your thoughts and wishes.

Thanks for the update Jim.

I know two people very well that have had the same thing, both are back to 100% now. Just takes rest and time.

[Pwalo]

Get well soon mate.

[vtr02]

Good Morning folks.

The lovely Mrs Hitcher has requested that visitors be kept to a minimum until further notice as the doctors have requested a low stimulus environment.

Hitcher isn't himself yet and gets confused very easily and has short-term memory loss.

Thank you again for all your thoughts and wishes.

Hi Jim
Thanks for the update. If you get the opprotunity, please pass on our best wishes to Brett for a speedy recovery.
Fellow GC's - David and Brendan.

[ajturbo]

glad that he had the thought to try and save the bike from damage..

heal up my friend..!!!

[Mom]

In a bit of a roundabout way, it is my pleasure to announce that all things being equal Hitcher will be discharged home tomorrow :D

[Crasherfromwayback]

Great news! He'll be much happier there...and the food will be better too.

[Hans]

Awesome news.

[SPman]

Ya don't log on for a few days and all hell breaks loose, Not good to hear the news, but relieved yr in good hands and on the mend Hitch ! Best wishes to you and yr lovely Wife !

Wot he said!

[Laava]

Sorry to hear about this Bret, hope you're up an about sooner!

[Winston001]

In a bit of a roundabout way, it is my pleasure to announce that all things being equal Hitcher will be discharged home tomorrow :D

That's astonishing :shit:. Great news. Knew he couldn't keep away from the Big Day....http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/4244207/Exercise-to-test-tsunami-response :yes:

[Mully]

Holy Monkey - just heard about this.

Heal up, Hitcher.

[James Deuce]

Visited last night and Hitcher has been moved to a Low Stimulus area.

He may be discharged today but that isn't certain yet.

Short term memory loss is quite pronounced but as he isn't panicky by nature and he's clever enough to bluff his way through most things staff are being very thorough with neuro-obs.

[nadroj]

he isn't panicky by nature and he's clever enough to bluff his way through most things.

How could you say such a thing about an ill man.........

[AllanB]

Good news - where should I send the card now?

[RiderInBlack]

Short term memory loss is quite pronounced but as he isn't panicky by nature and he's clever enough to bluff his way through most things staff are being very thorough with neuro-obs.Glad they are being thorough. Would hate ta think what may occur if he manages to "Buff" his way home before it is safe for him to do so. Head trauma can be so tricky.
In saying that I do hope he is healing well and ready to go home when it is safe for him to do so.

[James Deuce]

Good news - where should I send the card now?

Same place sir :).

[Nasty]

Visited last night and Hitcher has been moved to a Low Stimulus area.

He may be discharged today but that isn't certain yet.

Short term memory loss is quite pronounced but as he isn't panicky by nature and he's clever enough to bluff his way through most things staff are being very thorough with neuro-obs.

In follow up to this - just had a message from Mrs H (aka Jane) and she said he is not being discharged right now - maybe in a couple of days - they are talking about possible transfer to Wellington prior to going home.

[Banditbandit]

In follow up to this - just had a message from Mrs H (aka Jane) and she said he is not being discharged right now - maybe in a couple of days - they are talking about possible transfer to Wellington prior to going home.

Well .. he's going to be OK .. lived to tell the tale ... Good luck for the near future mate ... hope you're back on two wheels soon

[Meanie]

Hope you are feeling better Hitcher and wishing you a quick recovery

[StoneY]

Shizzles!

Hope you recover well mate...you only just got El Shivaro back on the road and all too!

My thoughts with both you and Mrs Hitcher

See you at the workshop sometime soon again bruv

[Madness]

James, I'm sorry it took something as terrible as this to see you posting on KB again. I hope your return is more permanent now as the place isn't the same without you.

Mr Hitcher. As has been said already by so many, I wish you a full & speedy recovery. Perhaps the force generated by that melon of yours hitting solid ground was responsible for the recent after-shock?.



That's astonishing :shit:. Great news. Knew he couldn't keep away from the Big Day....http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/4244207/Exercise-to-test-tsunami-response :yes:
I think Hitch could be more excited about another upcoming "Big Day"...
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[marty]

Just waiting for Hitch to come in here and say 'OMG WTF chur chur tks evry1 4 yr suport' :)

[RiderInBlack]

In follow up to this - just had a message from Mrs H (aka Jane) and she said he is not being discharged right now - maybe in a couple of days - they are talking about possible transfer to Wellington prior to going home.Now that makes more sense, his team in Wellington Hospital will get to know him before he heads home. That will help for his follow-up later on too. Sounds like they are looking after ya well Mr H. My thoughts are with you and your family Bret & Jane.

Doug

[Oakie]

Visited last night and Hitcher has been moved to a Low Stimulus area..

He's in my bedroom?!

[James Deuce]

He's in my bedroom?!

Only when you're not looking.

[sels1]

just caught up on the news....
Best wishes for a full recovery Hitch
And thinkin of you too, Jane

[Paul in NZ]

Better tell him to avoid our place then - 2 small boys is highly stimulating - er - annoying...

[ynot slow]

Get wellerer,and if I suspect the Sangster bllood is similar to that from the Naki,recovery will be quick.Recall Sangsters with horse power as early pioneers in back country Stratford.

[nadroj]

Get wellerer,and if I suspect the Sangster bllood is similar to that from the Naki,recovery will be quick.Recall Sangsters with horse power as early pioneers in back country Stratford.

That's them - Sangsters & McFarlane's.

[Brian d marge]

well this is one thread that aint going to pd

whats a subdural bleed , from a bang on the head, or just it can can happen?

anyway glad all seems to be coming right ,

Stephen

[Nasty]

well this is one thread that aint going to pd

whats a subdural bleed , from a bang on the head, or just it can can happen?

anyway glad all seems to be coming right ,

Stephen

A bleed like that can just happen doesn't need to be precipitated by a bang on the head.

[bistard]

well this is one thread that aint going to pd

whats a subdural bleed , from a bang on the head, or just it can can happen?

anyway glad all seems to be coming right ,

Stephen

Stephen, its a similar thing that happened to Aaron Slight

[Oakie]

A bleed like that can just happen doesn't need to be precipitated by a bang on the head.

Can be brought on by the trauma of witnessing a plethora of bad spelling and grammar I believe.

[James Deuce]

Latest update from Mrs Hitcher: Hitcher says he is still dazed & confused (James Deuce's note: I bet most of you won't be able to get that tune out of your head now.) but life is starting to make more sense and thanks to all for caring. We may know today when he will be moved to Wellington.

[ynot slow]

Sending warm fuzzies your way.

[James Deuce]

well this is one thread that aint going to pd

whats a subdural bleed , from a bang on the head, or just it can can happen?

anyway glad all seems to be coming right ,

Stephen


A bleed like that can just happen doesn't need to be precipitated by a bang on the head.


Stephen, its a similar thing that happened to Aaron Slight


Can be brought on by the trauma of witnessing a plethora of bad spelling and grammar I believe.

The central nervous system has three membranes; The dura mater, the arachnoid mater, and the pia mater.
http://www.ohiohealth.com/mayo/images/image_popup/r7_meningitis.jpg

You don't need a bang on the head to suffer a bleed in these areas and a spontaneous subdural bleed usually happens over a week and a half or so before it culminates in an acute phase.

That is indeed the type of bleed that Aaron Slight suffered however Hitcher has had a subarachnoid hemorrhage and this is a much more serious proposition which comes on suddenly and usually only 10% of people survive a bleed like that and only a very small percentage emerge from the subsequent coma without serious deficit.

It appears at this stage that Hitcher has surpassed even the best hopes of medical science. My hope is that medical science can return the favour and fix whatever structural defect caused the bleed.

[terbang]

holy shit, been away for a while and this has happened.
Mend well Hitch.

[Ronin]

He's in my bedroom?!

Correcting your grammar.

[RiderInBlack]

It appears at this stage that Hitcher has surpassed even the best hopes of medical science. My hope is that medical science can return the favour and fix whatever structural defect caused the bleed.Thanks JD. My thoughts exactly. Thanks for explanation too. Not many of us on here work in the health sector (I do), so could easily misunderstand how serious this has been for Mr & Mrs H. Glad to here he is progressing beyond the hopes of the Med Staff. And yes I too hope they find the cause.

[MSTRS]

... Hitcher has had a subarachnoid hemorrhage ...

He has bleeding spiders in his head? :gob:

Seriously, he is truly one of the lucky ones. As was our daughter 2 years ago. Neurological surgeon was able to repair the problem bleed, and found/fixed another weak spot before it let go.
I understood that half make it to hospital for treatment, and half of them live - making a 25% survival rate. 10%/25% - still not good odds. It is usually what has happened when you read 'he suddenly collapsed on the sports field'...

[James Deuce]

Hitcher is on the way back to Wellington with Mrs Hitcher.

[Bald Eagle]

That is excellent news, it's always good to be closer to home.

[Paul in NZ]

That is excellent news, it's always good to be closer to home.

Unless you live in Chernobel of course....

Good shit James....

[BMWST?]

All the best Mr and Mrs Hitcher!

[merv]

Thanks for updating us on progress Jim. Get well Hitch and all the best to you too Jane.

[Beemer]

Andy and I caught up with Hitcher last night at PN Hospital and it was great to see for ourselves that he's on the mend. I think it could be a while before he's beating us on the daily quiz, but he was lucid and making good sense! (Which for most KBers, is a pretty amazing thing!)

I left him with oranges as Jane said she thought he would like some, and grapes and homemade cookies - there were about a dozen so get in quick!

[James Deuce]

Hitcher is installed in Wellington Hospital, Ward 7 South, Neurosurgery.

Flowers are not permitted in this ward. Chocolates are. Cake would be better.

Visiting times are 10am-1pm and 3pm-8pm.

Remember to keep it short.

[davebullet]

Flowers are not permitted in this ward. Chocolates are. Cake would be better.

Remember to keep it short.

Agreed - shortcake is nice.

[Okey Dokey]

Great news to hear of your progress, Hitcher. Long may it continue :sunny:

[James Deuce]

I have no idea what you're saying Dave. That avatar is very distracting.

[Highlander]

Agreed - shortcake is nice.

Shortbread and a Single Malt is probably more his style.

I picked up from Koro J's GC report that something had gone awry with Mr H's ride but just found this thred.

Great to hear is on the mend when the odds where stacked well against him.

Thoughts and best wishes for a fast and full recovery.

[yungatart]

I'm so pleased to hear you are on the mend, Hitcher.
Take things very slowly, okay? Healing takes time, like good wine, women, whisky and cheese....

[Owl]

Healing takes time, like good wine, women, whisky and cheese....

Women get better with time?:scratch:

[2wheeldrifter]

Women get better with time?:scratch:

That's why he said whisky as well... :yes:

[Owl]

That's why he said whisky as well... :yes:

He?

Boy are you in trouble!:shutup:

[2wheeldrifter]

He?

Boy are you in trouble!:shutup:

Oh shit... I am in the shit! shit yungatart your not gay are you...? (fingerscrossed)

[yungatart]

Women get better with time?:scratch:

You'd better believe it!

That's why he said whisky as well... :yes:

You best get your running shoes on, boyo!

He?

Boy are you in trouble!:shutup:

He's always in trouble! Right now he needs a straw, to breathe with...


Oh shit... I am in the shit! shit yungatart your not gay are you...? (fingerscrossed)

Keep digging! Can I pass you another spade?

[2wheeldrifter]

You'd better believe it!


You best get your running shoes on, boyo!


He's always in trouble! Right now he needs a straw, to breathe with...



Keep digging! Can I pass you another spade?

No just a toothpick to get the shit outa my nose!

times like this with you had diarrhea... :facepalm:

[Genestho]

Hey sorry to hear this Hitcher! Best wishes! GWS!

[Oakie]

Women get better with time?:scratch:

the tarty one didn't actually say women get better with time ... she just said ....they just take time


...Take things very slowly, okay? Healing takes time, like good wine, women, whisky and cheese....

Personally I've found they don't take so long with judicious use of the right techniques and/or accessories

[MsKABC]

Holy shortbread, Batman! Finally saw this thread. Glad to hear that you are on the mend Hitch and closer to your family. You are one very tough or very lucky man! Get well soon :hug:

[Swoop]

It is very pleasing to hear that you are on the mend and also much closer to home.
Behave yourself and do what the nurses tell you to do.

Caveat: Ignore what male Honda-riding nurses tell you what to do...

[Nasty]

Went up and saw hitcher today ... for what he has been through he handled the visit of me and the two kids extremely well!!!

He is looking great for what he has been through .. have a couple of pics and will add them once I have finished the work i am doing :):)

[Toddy]

Crikey just caught up with the news. A scary moment for Jane and the family. Great to hear Hitcher's on the mend.

[RiderInBlack]

Good piece in the latest Rusty Nuts' "Rusty Trumpet": (http://www.rustynuts.co.nz/default.aspx?PageID=4)
2 riders pulled out after attending a crash scene for some time and they didn’t want to continue, it sort of spoilt the enjoyment, but their willingness to assist was critical to the rider who was down and it is no exaggeration to say they were responsible to saving the Bretts life, as it was they who pulled the bike off of the top of him and ascertained that he was turning turn due to his helmet constricting his airway. Brett had the perfect people behind him when he got into trouble. He was being followed by a fireman, a GP , and on off duty policeman, but others as well. Well done guys and to all those who stopped to assist.
Brett is now doing very well in Wellington Hospital, Ward 7 South Room 11, ring hospital to check visiting hours etc. or send a card. He is trying to run the hospital apparently, his short term memory is still kaput but everything else is working well. His crash was apparently due to a small aneurism in the brain, so that caused the crash, not the crash causing the injury. There is a constantly updating thread on Kiwibiker Site. Search for Hitcher.
He has many friends and well wishers posting there.
That he does. Heal well Brett

[nudemetalz]

I dropped in and saw Hitcher tonight. He's just got home from hospital.
Looked a little banged up here and there but appeared to be in okay spirits considering what he's gone through.
His helmet didn't look so great though and the gear took a little scraping also.

Looking forward to a "Duelling Ukuleles" too sometime !! (with no "Squealing like a pig, Boy"...BTW...)

[Paul in NZ]

Short term memory loss eh?

Brett - cough - you still got that $100 I lent you for gas mate?

No? Oh well, worth a crack... Good onya you big lug, heal up fast n true....

[beyond]

Man, just spotted this thread. Sorry to hear buddy. Hope you heal up fast.

[Edbear]

I dropped in and saw Hitcher tonight. He's just got home from hospital.
Looked a little banged up here and there but appeared to be in okay spirits considering what he's gone through.
His helmet didn't look so great though and the gear took a little scraping also.

Looking forward to a "Duelling Ukuleles" too sometime !! (with no "Squealing like a pig, Boy"...BTW...)

Thanks for the update! Keep us posted, and let him know we're thinking of him, yeah, even me... :innocent:

[Okey Dokey]

Yes, great to hear an update, and wishing you well on your recovery, Hitcher :)

[Fatjim]

Women get better with time?:scratch:

You'd better believe it!

that's bitter, not better

[sunhuntin]

good to read hes home!! :woohoo: hopefully things keep getting better!

[What?]

Bugger - haven't been on here for a while, so only just now found out about this.

Get better soon, Hitch - the English Language needs you.
:scooter:

[elle-f]

Same - just read this. Heal well Hitcher cause you are one of my favourite guys out there.....you too Mrs Hitcher although you are not a guy!

Will be reading positive updates.

[Kiwi Graham]

Don't know how I've missed this thread!

Good to hear your on the mend Mr H and glad you travel in such well qualified company too!!

Look forward to you wise typed words again soon Monsieur.

[caseye]

That Hitcher was found and attended to by another Gc ( biker) is heart warming, to know he's out of Hospital is great.
Wouldn't be the same around here without ya Hitcher.
Get well soon and i sincerely hope that the bike and you are reunited soon.

[chanceyy]

Great news to hear Brett's home, thats fantastic !!!

Keep healing Brett :)

[MyGSXF]

All the best.. great to hear you are home!!!! :yes:

[MaxB]

Get well soon, Hitcher.

[Naki Rat]

Sorry to here about you're mishap Hitcher. As you can see the writing standard's dont take long too plumet in you're absinthe. Hope your heeling rapidly ;)

[Hitcher]

Thanks for the good wishes everybody. I'm home again and sort of online.

The head thing seems to be working itself out OK with a physio doing regular pliage to a left knee -- mine, not his. Left thumb is a bit bent and bruised too, which impedes some ukelele chords unfortunately.

Typing is rougher than guts.

Helmet is munted, as are various garments that were removed from me. Spectacles too fall loosely into the unwearable category. New ones are ordered.

I've had a quick squiz at the Shiver. Given what I've been through, it is in surprisingly good shape. Next thing on the to do list is to get a repair claim underway.

No rush on this. I've "voluntarily" surrendered my license, so no doubt the wheels of bureaucracy will take some time to move on that.

Mrs H has been fantastic. As too have been others.

I've got no memory of what happened. Nothing. I can vaguely remember the Rusty's pre-ride briefing and bugger all else from the Saturday in question. Mrs H got a couple of texts from me that I can't remember sending. "Normal reception" started resuming from the following Wednesday in Palmerston North ICU. A transfer to Wellington Level 7 South subsequently resulted and I was discharged from there at the end of last week.

I'll need to sort through my various stuff and decide what's OK, what's repairable and what needs replacing.

A phased return to work is another thing that's on my To Do list for this week.

I'd love to know what happened and why but I suspect that recall is not going to happen.

[White trash]

Well you sure know how to scare the shit outta people mate, that's for sure. Look forward to correcting you on sloppy spelling and grammar some time soon :D

Good to have ya back.

[p.dath]

Good to see you on your way back to recovery.

[Gremlin]

Damn good to see you back online :niceone:

When I passed you in ruahine rd, you looked absolutely fine, good lines, pace etc. Was shocked to hear it was you that went down when I finished :(

[Ocean1]

I've "voluntarily" surrendered my license, so no doubt the wheels of bureaucracy will take some time to move on that.

Wuss. Ah well, if worse comes to worser I'll introduce you to the fine old art of bog snorkeling, for which only a nominal local licence fee is required.


I've got no memory of what happened. Nothing.

I'd have thought you'd have been well used to that, dude, albeit perhaps more usually after a wee nap.


Mrs H has been fantastic. As too have been others.


Indeed: Good friends are good for your health.

[Edbear]

I guess you're going to learn patience, now. It's going to take a good while to recover, so try not to get frustrated. Hopefully full memory will return in time, but be sure to listen to the Doc and don't do anything too hastily.

[MSTRS]

In amongst all these messages to Hitcher, exhorting him to good health tout suite...I see there are none to the usual culprits that tax his fine sense of literary ability.
Let this post be that message.
Be gentle on the wee lamb. He is in need of measured calm, if he is to return to full health on the mental acuity front. Not to mention, ulcers.

Great to see you posting Mr H. Take it one day at a time. These sort of 'events' take their own time to get over.

[yungatart]

Welcome back, Mr H. We are well pleased to see you back in here!

Do take it easy, young fella!

[chanceyy]

great to see ya posting Hitch, gave us all a wee bit of a fright but more none so than your lovely Jane. Keep on healing & back to striking out bad grammer with a vengence :yes: :hug:

[sunhuntin]

thrilled to see you back, sir! :sunny: wasnt the same without you. its funny how you get used to people always being there without even realising.

take it easy, and good on you for being man enough to give up bikes for the time being.

[Owl]

Typing is rougher than guts.

As long as the spelling is ok!:niceone:


Helmet is munted

I hope your head didn't get any bigger, cause I'm not sure they make XXXXL helmets?:blink:

Glad to see you back again Hitcher!:msn-wink:

[Oakie]

Ahhhh. Normal service has been returned. Good to have you back Hitcher.

[banditrider]

A phased return to work is another thing that's on my To Do list for this week.

I'd love to know what happened and why but I suspect that recall is not going to happen.

Great to hear you're home and have remembered how to work the PC. Don't rush the work thing - I just started back after 2 weeks off and it's very overrated!

Re what happened - love to be able to help more but you just that little bit ahead of us I guess. I do have the GPS co-ordinates (damn handy when talking to emergency services) if you wish to retrace your steps at some stage.

Very glad to hear you are well and truly on the mend!

[ajturbo]

Not knowing must be so frustrating..!!!

good to know your back with us matey... you going to get back out the bike anytime?

[Jantar]

Its great to see you back online Brett. You have been missed. :yes:

Just take that recovery slowly and keep that chin up. (You'll spill your whisky otherwise)

[Hitcher]

GPS coordinates would be welcomed. My trip meter says 47.1km which I presume is from my last fuel stop at Woodville.

Ordered a new helmet today. A Shoei XR1100 XXXL.

I've got some images of a munted HJC and of the glasses I was wearing at the time. I'll post these presently. Gahh!

Will go through the process of getting my license reinstated in a couple of weeks' time. It was suggested by LTNZ that I may like to do this voluntarily. Something to do with a brain aneurism, which they apparently take a dim view of. So I have.

Then there's the insurance claim. I am developing a view that a much loved Shiver may go onto the market following its comprehensive and exacting repair.

No booze, no air flights, no power equipment. Go figure.

[gijoe1313]

Good to read your post my esteemed KB proofreader, I did not think you would be doing your gah! thud exclamation so literally one day.

Keep doing the good thing and glad you are back with cognitive faculties intact.

Let us know the process and how you get on so we are aware of that track!

[pzkpfw]

I just want to know when a moderator will step in to stop Hitcher thread-jacking James Deuce's thread.

[FROSTY]

Hi Hitcher. Im really sorry not to have wished you a speedy recovery . I was blissfully unaware that anything was wrong.
The Frosty's all wish you well and hope this is a temporary setback.

[davebullet]

Ordered a new helmet today. A Shoei XR1100 XXXL.

.....

Then there's the insurance claim. I am developing a view that a much loved Shiver may go onto the market following its comprehensive and exacting repair.

Does this mean another Shiver or are you thinking of a change?

[James Deuce]

Betcha he buys a Katie M.

[MSTRS]

As long as he doesn't start hanging around schools to source one. And would Jane be OK with it? :innocent:

[Gremlin]

Everybody loves Katie!!

She has more mmmmmmmm :yes:

[davebullet]

Betcha he buys a Katie M.

Awwww, naaaa, get a triple. Ever owned a triple Hitch?

[Swoop]

Awwww, naaaa, get a triple. Ever owned a triple Hitch?
That's cruel.
Asking a man with memory loss if he has ever owned a certain type of bike...


I'm still waiting for him to pay me back that $50- I loaned him to fuel up his bike.:blip::chase:

[davebullet]

That's cruel.
Asking a man with memory loss if he has ever owned a certain type of bike...

On a related note, I was hoping my divorce would have a similar side effect (memory loss). Unfortunately my ex is all too real!

[Ocean1]

Betcha he buys a Katie M.

He was drooling over the new multistrudle a while back...

[Hitcher]

He was drooling over the new multistrudle a while back...

Until he saw the price...

On another thread, the new GSX1250FA looks interesting. Of course it would need a few thou thrown at it for mandatory suspension and brake upgrades as well as for a "safer" exhaust, but otherwise it looks an interesting package.

[Edbear]

Until he saw the price...

On another thread, the new GSX1250FA looks interesting. Of course it would need a few thou thrown at it for mandatory suspension and brake upgrades as well as for a "safer" exhaust, but otherwise it looks an interesting package.

If I thought I could keep my licence on one... :yes: I loved the electric motor smoothness and the incredible torque. The ride position and the brakes and handling were fine for me. The stock suspension settings were a bit hard for me on the one I rode, but overall I loved the bike and definitely recommend them!

[Hitcher]

Thanks to all involved on the fateful day in question. The Rusty Nuts Motorcycle Club always runs well organised and highly considered events. That organisation contributed much to my after-accident recovery. So too did the calibre of riders participating and the local emergency services. Event riders who arrived on the scene soon after included a GP, a fireman, policeman and other caring, non-flappable types. Given that I wasn't breathing by myself for quite a while, I owe all of these people more than a little.

The local Pahiatua Policewoman Donna Oliver is a star. So too is Les of the crash investigation unit who delivered my gear from the accident location.

Thanks are also due to a whole bunch of friends and family members who have been just wonderful. Jane (Mrs H) has just been amazing.

[Hailwood]

So glad to see you back here Brett....take each day slowly and steadily and I look forward to seeing you back out there again soon

[caseye]

It's good to see your post Hitcher, get well soon .

[LBD]

Hi Hitch...good to hear you are mending and looking to get back in the saddle...

Mts 1200 gets my vote:yes:

[Big Dave]

Hurrah for the good guys.

[Gibbo89]

Welcome back Mr Hitcher :woohoo:

[Hitcher]

Hurrah for the good guys.

Damn right. There's a bunch of good guys and gals out there who will be getting hurrahs from me for some time to come.

[onearmedbandit]

Great to see you back online again Mr H, you gave us a bit of a scare there.

[Quasi]

Hey Mr H - great to see you back in here and posting with some semblance of clarity. Look forward to seeing you and Jane on the road sometime soon, or in Martinborough which seems to be where all good bikers meet.

[Hitcher]

Hey Mr H - great to see you back in here and posting with some semblance of clarity. Look forward to seeing you and Jane on the road sometime soon, or in Martinborough which seems to be where all good bikers meet.

All that's needed to complete that opportunity is a valid motorcycle license and a working motorcycle. Goodness knows how long all of that may take.

[Marknz]

Great to read from you Mr. Hitcher.... and heres hoping the recovery continues apace and you're back on the road soon.

All the best

[Toddy]

Brett good to hear that you are on the mend. Take it nice and easy and getting that body back to 100%. Looking forward to catching up with you and Jane out on the road in the near future.

Toddy

[James Deuce]

Went out to dinner with Hitcher and the lovely Mrs Hitcher on Saturday night.

It's nice to have him back.

[ynot slow]

Damn right. There's a bunch of good guys and gals out there who will be getting hurrahs from me for some time to come.

Great to see you up and kicking,and the biking crowd to the fore,helping without being asked,karma works well at times.

[Gareth51]

Not been on KB for awhile, so been doing a catch up with a few threads
Glad to see you back on deck Brett.
Wishing you all the best on your recovery.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Jane (Mrs H) has just been amazing.

That's why you married her. She ends up with a GC. Great to see you up and about.

Pete

[nadroj]

That's why you married her. She ends up with a GC. Great to see you up and about.

Pete

She also ended up with a lot of 'BS'.

[vifferman]

I've been away (again!) for over a week, so it was nice to return and see this thread had metamorphosed into a good news one. Best wishes for your continued recovery, Brett. :yes:

Kind regards,

- Ian