The Crash

How I learned about the danger of stubbornness

I stood at the top of the steep stone steps assessing the hike down to the lake. I had not done it unassisted in many years. I had two friends with me who are also disabled.

It was a picture perfect summer day. The dock on the lake beckoned. We had put on bathing suits and sunscreen. We packed bags with water, snacks and towels.

As I stood there, I knew it would be a mistake to lean on my friend to walk down. I hate to turn back. Both friends were far ahead of me. I stood still.

Maybe I just needed a semi steady shoulder to hold to get going down the first step and I would be fine. Amelia slowly hiked up to where I stood frozen with fear.

She stood next to me on my functioning ride side. I held my cane with my left hand and put a hand on her shoulder. I took a deep breath.

I took the step. We both fell so fast we were barely aware of what was happening until we were both on the ground. Pamela heard our screams from the bottom of the hill and looked up to see us tumbling down.

I didn’t move for a few seconds as I took stock of how much damage my body had sustained. In my mind, I had many broken bones. In reality, I was actually mostly okay. I looked over at Amelia who said she was ok, also.