Tragedy on the Trail

Never a good sign when your laying in the Vanderbilt ER with a neck brace, boots on and full of Fentanyl.  But here I am.

An hour into our trail ride, my horse spooked and bucked me off.  I didn't last the 8 seconds and landed hard on my back.  Back first, hips second, feet and head last.  The pain was immediate and intense.  The first department dispatched a 4x4 with a back board to get me off the trail.  Fortunately, they administered fentanyl while I was laying on the trail, before they moved me.  Still, a difficult transition and ride to Vanderbilt via ambulance.

I spent 9 hours in the ER and the early indications are that I am very, very lucky. The paramedics were convinced I was headed straight for back surgery and were prepping me for that on the way to Vanderbilt. The X-Ray shows swelling on the spine, internal bleeding and deep tissue bruising - no broken bones.  At least not for tonight.

I get to go home for now. I'll be back at the Bone & Joint Clinic on Monday for an MRI and reevaluation by the Surgeon that put the plate and screws in my neck 18 years ago.  Hoping for confirmation there - but mostly hoping the pain subsides for tonight.  I've had 4 rounds of fentanyl and I'm concerned what happens when I get home. 

Still, I know. These kinds of accidents don't usually end this well. I am very blessed.  Mad love and respect to Dennis and Peter who took care of me until paramedics could find us.  Then they secured the horses for safety.