In the midst of the 2020 global crisis, a simple daily walk became a lifeline. Defying stay-at-home orders, I embarked on a four-mile journey each day, a route that transformed my body, mind, and career. This story is about that walk, the bizarre discoveries along the way, and the day it almost ended my life.
Discover how a consistent walking routine led to unexpected weight loss, reduced stress, and a renewed sense of purpose. However, this newfound sanctuary took a dark turn when an ordinary crosswalk became the scene of a life-altering accident. Learn from my experiences and gain insights into:
- The profound impact of a daily walking routine.
- The importance of gratitude and perspective in the face of adversity.
- What not to say to someone who has experienced a traumatic event.
- Practical tips for offering support and empathy.
The Transformative Power of a Daily Walk
When Governor Newsom issued the stay-at-home order, I rebelled in my own small way by committing to a daily four-mile walk. This wasn’t just about exercise; it was about survival. Losing my job to the pandemic created immense stress, and the walk became my sanctuary. It cleared my head, sparked creative business ideas, and helped me cope with the looming global collapse.
The walk became non-negotiable, a vital part of my day. As a result, surprising changes unfolded. My stress levels plummeted, I started sleeping soundly, and I unintentionally lost 50 pounds within months. This simple routine reshaped my body, mindset, career, and overall life. The sidewalk discoveries became a quirky side effect. Each peculiar item, from a sobriety chip to a discarded toy, sparked curiosity and humor, turning my walk into a treasure hunt. I started posting photos of my sidewalk discoveries, and the responses were hilarious. People loved them. It became a thing.
The Day Everything Changed: A Collision
After four years of sidewalk adventures, my posts abruptly stopped. The reason? I was hit by a truck. While crossing the street in a crosswalk with the right-of-way, a Toyota Tundra V8 struck me, sending me airborne. Despite my best efforts, I was no match for a three-ton vehicle. I survived, but with a broken leg, a shredded knee, and severe road rash.
The aftermath was a blur of horrified onlookers, paramedics, and ill-fated decisions about my favorite black pants from Target. Despite my protests, a paramedic cut them open to examine my knee, which he mistakenly declared “fine.” An MRI later revealed the extent of the damage: a broken tibia, femur damage, and torn cartilage. The experience was a literal insult to injury.
What Getting Hit by a Truck *Really* Feels Like
We often use the phrase “I feel like I was hit by a truck” to describe hangovers, intense workouts, or the flu. However, the reality is far more intense. Imagine this: You’re minding your own business, crossing a street you’ve crossed countless times, wearing your favorite pants. Suddenly, someone throws a 60-inch French door refrigerator filled with anvils at you. You lie on the pavement, overwhelmed by excruciating pain, wondering why this happened.
That is what getting hit by a truck feels like. It’s a visceral, life-altering experience that transcends any casual comparison. It’s about more than just physical pain; it’s about the shock, the vulnerability, and the sudden confrontation with mortality.
Things NOT to Say to Someone Hit by a Truck
In the aftermath of a traumatic event, well-intentioned people often say the wrong things. To help you avoid these pitfalls, here’s a helpful guide:
- “Oh my god, are you okay? Do you want me to call an ambulance? Do you want me to call the police? Are you alright? Are you? Are you?” – Overwhelming someone with questions is not helpful. Call for help and give them space.
- “You’re so lucky it wasn’t worse.” – This invalidates their feelings and minimizes their experience.
- “Wow, you’re lucky to be alive!” – Surviving a near-death experience can be traumatic and lead to PTSD. It’s not automatically a cause for celebration.
- “I hope you have a good lawyer! You’re gonna make a fortune!” – Presuming financial gain is insensitive and often inaccurate.
- “Everything happens for a reason.” – Platitudes are rarely helpful and can delegitimize their feelings.
- “At least…”/“You should…”/“You can always…” – Avoid unsolicited advice and comparisons.
Please, I’m begging you, don’t use someone else’s disaster as an opportunity to share everything bad that you’ve survived. All due respect but STFU.
Things You *Can* Say to Someone Hit by a Truck
If you want to offer genuine support, try these phrases:
- “I can’t imagine what you’re going through.”
- “I’m so sorry you had to experience this.”
- “Oh my god, this really sucks.”
- “I don’t know what to say. Please know that I love you and I’m thinking about you.”
- “I can come over any time and just sit with you. We won’t even have to talk.”
- “Everything you’re feeling makes total sense.”
- “I can’t possibly understand what you’re going through. But I’m here.”
- “Tomorrow is wide open for me. I can run errands for you, do your laundry, freshen up your space, and make sure everything you need is within reach.”
- “I just left a tray of enchiladas, some d’Affinois cheese, and a deep-dish pizza on your porch. (This one may be specific to me, but feel free to use it if you wish.)”
- “I’m here for you.”
Finding Hope on the Road to Recovery
My experience highlights the vulnerability of pedestrians and the importance of traffic safety. In Los Angeles, traffic deaths outpace homicides, a statistic that demands attention. While city officials work towards solutions, it’s crucial for each of us to be mindful of our surroundings and advocate for safer streets.
As I navigate the pain, frustration, and potential PTSD, I hold onto the hope of returning to my daily walk. It won’t be easy, but I believe that one day I’ll be back on that familiar path, grateful to be alive.
This journey has taught me invaluable lessons about perspective, resilience, and the power of human connection. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire empathy, promote safer communities, and remind everyone to appreciate the simple act of walking.