12/12/2020
This is my riding helmet. I remember being unsure if it was worth spending as much as I did. There were less expensive versions to choose from, but I went ahead and sprung for this one. I am so thankful I did! This little bundle of plastic, foam, metal, and mesh, saved my life on Monday. I was trying to help a neighbor and friend, by riding one of their horses that had thrown a little girl earlier this year. I am so thankful I remembered and took the time to throw this on my head. This is certainly not the first time I’ve come off a horse, but it is definitely the worst. I was released from the hospital in Santa Fe yesterday afternoon, after a couple of days of being inpatient for close monitoring and assessment. After many scans and radiographs, my injuries started to become clear and add up. I have a small subarachnoid bleed/hemorrhage in the left frontal portion of my brain, my left humerus is fractured at the rotator cuff, I fractured my right ribs 2-6, I have a right-sided pulmonary contusion, and fractures in my spine at L2 and L3 (spinous process). These injuries are going to slow me down for quite awhile. I cannot use my left arm for at least 8-weeks, and cannot participate in any horseback riding or “high-risk activities” for at least 3-months, but the doctors said the longer I can rest and heal, the better. Thankfully, none of my injuries or fractures will need surgical intervention at this time. I’m praying things stay that way. Please know that I am aware there are some custom Christmas/holiday pieces that will no longer be possible for me to finish before they would need to be mailed out. I am so sorry to let you guys down. I plan on reaching out to each of you next week, when my head is a bit clearer. Thank you for your understanding and kindness at this trying time. I cannot wait to be back at my bench, and back in the saddle as soon as possible. Much love and biggest hugs. -Rachel 💚
