Many of you know that I was hit by a car while on my way to cover a wrestling match at the high school. I fractured my wrist, hip and a broken knee. The knee required me to be flown to Bellingham for surgery. The surgery went extremely well, and hopefully, in a few months you will see me out and about once again.
It’s been an experience, from someone who has never broken a bone, let alone had surgery.
The outpouring from community members has left me crying multiple times. I want to start by giving thanks to our incredibly skilled first responders. I cannot understate how lucky we are to have them. The nurses and doctors at Peace Health and Saint Joseph’s in Bellingham have all been so professional and compassionate, as was Island Air. Pilot Pete, miraculously, was able to fly me out at 6 in the morning through turbulent weather – yet I barely felt a thing.
Since then, islanders have reached out with love, support and concern; emailing, texting, calling. Jen Rigg posted on Facebook encouraging others to subscribe to the Journal. The post, and seeing so many responding to the call, filled my heart.
Anna Maria de Freitas graciously offered to let me tuck at the Tucker House Inn where I was able to have wheelchair access. Talk about recovering in luxury! Not only that, she helped arrange getting a walker from the Mullis Community Senior Center. I don’t know how I can ever repay you.
I was not aware that the Mullis Center provided walkers, wheelchairs and other similar equipment for islanders. Thank you on behalf of the community for this much-needed service.
A friend of mine went to buy some gift basket items for me from The Pebble. After finding out what the items were for, they would not allow her to pay, again moving me to tears. I do not know how to repay you either.
And of course, my sweet Soroptimist has been so supportive, checking in and dropping off treats.
My heart is full of love and gratitude to all of you. The way this island pulls together and takes care of each other never ceases to amaze me.
In case the bystander – who so kindly put their green coat around me while I waited for the EMTs – has not picked up their coat, it is at PeaceHealth for you. Thank you for your kindness!
One last note, during these dark wintery nights: pedestrians and drivers alike, please use extraordinary caution.
Looking forward to seeing you around town or at the beach once I am out and about.
