Car accident when I was 21. I almost died. I was in a coma for 4 weeks, had a traumatic brain injury and 12 broken bones. I was in the hospital for 6 weeks, in a 6-hour-a-day rehab program for 9 weeks after that, and physical therapy for 11 months total. I have 4 metal plates, 4 pins, and 27 scars.
I also have a deep and abiding appreciation for life and how beautiful the world is, and a healthy awe and wonder for the magic of it all. I have a deep respect for the frailty of the human body, and also its amazing strength. I have a deep trust in myself and my ability to persevere, and a deep trust of my family to always come through for me in any conceivable way I need. I have a very close relationship with my brother, who was terrifed of losing me. I am close to both of my parents and have their sincere "permission" to "just be whoever you are, we're just glad you're still here."
I was given the gift of starting my life with a clean slate at the age of 21, and getting to experience everything without question and prejudice. It's an amazing, blessed thing.
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