Linda is a volunteer with our Dog Care Team and submitted a story to us on how she came to volunteer at GTHS. The story is one that we wanted to share with others. Thanks to Linda for sharing and for being a great volunteer!
It was a beautiful Indian Summer day one Thanksgiving, and my friend asked me to go for a motorcyle ride. We met in Stayner, enjoyed brunch together and then decided to head over to the boat locks.
Riding down Vasley Road, a woman did not see us on our bikes and pulled out in front of us. It all happened so fast, I had nowhere else to go…..and I hit her. I felt myself fly off the back of the bike and I landed on my face.
I don’t remember the landing as I blacked out immediately. I was taken to the Midland Hospital, then air lifted to Toronto. I later learned that I had broken every bone in my face and badly cracked my skull.
Within a week of the accident I was set-up with an Occupational Therapist and a Physiotherapist. The goal ahead of me – to build my strength up. I was progressing nicely for awhile, until I hit a peak. I would get fatigued easily and no longer went to the gym. I wasn’t sure what to do, until my doctors suggested that I volunteer or find a hobby. It seemed like an easy choice – I would volunteer at GTHS!
I’ve been told that my recovery will be slow, and that I should break jobs up into tasks. I also found out that walking a block produces endorphins, which makes me feel good!
I’m now averaging 3 times a week at GTHS. To me, there is nothing better than to walk and look after a 4-legged friend! 🙂
