I lost my husband but three of us survived the car accident. I fractured C1 but miraculously am 26 years past the event that took my healthy active husband and the father to our three sons. The accident happened at night in the middle of nowhere because we hit cows walking away from us. There was nowhere to go! Miraculously my husband had told me to put my seat belt on only 10 kilometres before and I had listened to him. My youngest son was thrown out of the back window of the car as it flipped over end in the impact and landed next to a sawn off thorn tree. He sustained a broken femur. The young man sitting 😊 to him was not even scratched. I was conscious throughout and aware that my neck was damaged but all my extremities were working. Unfortunately the ambulance didn't carry back boards or other equipment to stabilise my neck when they removed me from the wreck despite my telling them my neck was painful. The smell of petrol was their concern and also locating my son. Thankfully a passerby climbed into the ambulance and located a dirty neck collar for which I was most grateful. I was very lucky according to the Dr of Radiology who told me that most people with my injury don't survive and those that do are paralysed from the neck down. Instead here I am and have travelled alone and seen other parts of the globe because my three sons all live on different continents. I wish you and Chris the very best with your ongoing trials. May you receive success doing battle with the powers that be in order to make your lives easier.
@clairesauve783221 күн бұрын
Sorry you have to fight at each turn for services/equipment. It seems to be the standard. My 26 yo son had a 3rd degree burn work accident on 25% of his body. I had to do the same. Even for a Swiss ball! If after 4 years he's still recovering, I mean, sky is the limit! Thank God for your miracle!
@findinghopealongthejourney21 күн бұрын
Thank you for your comment! I am so sorry to hear about your son's injury. I hope that he is healing well. I am sure he is super grateful for having you by his side to advocate for his care. Keeping you in our prayers!
@anamora883026 күн бұрын
La quiero para mi hija para las calles de mi pais.
@findinghopealongthejourney21 күн бұрын
Realmente espero que puedas conseguir uno para tu hija. Gracias por acompañarnos en nuestro viaje.
@douglas.macmurrayАй бұрын
Just a week and a half ago my wife and I went to the movies and we parked in the van slot, I have been in a chair for almost 20 years. When we came out and I got back into the car I said you know we should not park in this slot because it's for Van access only. So I am guilty of doing this exact thing your talking about.
@findinghopealongthejourney21 күн бұрын
Thank you for sharing. This is just one of those things we all have to deal with. This video was certainly taken at a facility that has many spots, but it isn't typical in our area. My husband recently has had hand controls added to his van, so he drives independently. There have been times that there are no spaces he can get into. If that happens, he will park farther in the lot, and parks diagonally in two spots so that he can still drop his ramp and get back into it. I'm sure someone will complain one day, but that's what he is doing now to get by. Appreciate you watching and being here, Douglas.
@sasori100x2 ай бұрын
I decided to never ride a motorcycle when I was younger after seeing someone get hurt. I don't feel like I am missing a thing at all. Seems fun, but I just don't think it's the worth it kind of fun for me when the risks.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
There were definitely more fun days than bad, but when it was bad, it was really bad! Some folks ride for decades and never have a bad encounter. Just luckier than we were I suppose. Thanks for watching and commenting!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
NEVER EVER GIVE UP….. 🤓
@ashbash07112 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
You are very welcome!
@ashbash07112 ай бұрын
Thank you!! Just what I was looking for. Planning this cruise for Oct
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
We had a lot of fun. This was our first cruise (July 2022) so we were afraid to venture out. Now, as seasoned cruisers, we find more things to do at our destinations. We wish you all the best on your trip! Thanks for watching!!
@ashbash07112 ай бұрын
Which room did you stay in? I've booked 6707, just wondering how accessible it was in your power chair
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
@@ashbash0711 We stayed in 9206. I will upload the review video we took! I completely forgot to post that one! :) Chris was able to get in and out with no problems. He uses a Permobil M3, 24 inch width, 35.5 inch length, and 52 inch height, weighing approximately 400 lbs.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
@ashbash0711 this video has now been uploaded! :)
@ashbash07112 ай бұрын
@@findinghopealongthejourney thank you!!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Great video.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Have a wonderful cruise.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Thank you again for sharing your story.🤓
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
Thanks for joining us!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Not sure how you came my way, but I’m subscribing and watching. Thank you for sharing 🤓
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
Welcome! We appreciate you joining us!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Thank for sharing..🤓
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
Thanks for watching!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Eye opening to see what is involved with flying, transferring and exiting.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
It definitely takes some planning! :) Thanks for watching!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Wow, I was stressed watching Chris maneuver over that trail. I could hear you running/jogging to stay up with him, nice filming.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
Haha! I'm no athlete, I sent my brother to take that video because I knew Chris would hit the speed!! :)
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Holy shish… Every step, every movement a conscious effort.. Amazing.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
Thank you! Chris works very hard in physical therapy.
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
Wow, that was amazing to watch. Didn’t realize this type of therapy is available. Thank you for sharing.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
A lot of people we've met said scuba alleviates their pain for days! We can't wait until we can get out there into the ocean for one of these adventures!!
@leroysmith82032 ай бұрын
I too am a new subscriber to your channel. Thank you for sharing your story. Chris sounds like a great guy.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
I am definitely biased, but he's an awesome guy! Thank you for watching and subscribing!
@AvaPotterfieldandFriends3 ай бұрын
Awesome!
@AvaPotterfieldandFriends3 ай бұрын
Wow. What a story. We ride and are always aware that things can happen so fast.
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
All the gear, all the time! Stay safe out there!!
@MOAB-UT3 ай бұрын
Strong, smart and good woman. He is lucky to have her by his side.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Appreciate you!
@MOAB-UT3 ай бұрын
Sorry this happened. She did a great job of explaining what happened- many details.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
We appreciate your feedback. Thank you for sharing!
@MOAB-UT3 ай бұрын
@@findinghopealongthejourney Sure. I sold my bike years ago. Nearly the same thing happened 2 years ago to my friend. He was 20 something- new family, new job and he went down. Now he is also confined to a bed for life. Only one arm partially works. Riding is fun but not worth the risk. Are you still going to ride?
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
@@MOAB-UT we gave up riding after Chris' injury. My whole family and a lot of friends all sold their bikes. Occasionally we get him into a Can-Am, and he has a off-road wheelchair, but we gave up the wild stuff and settled into cruising! Haha! There are some adapted bikes out there, but right now I am not sure that Chris would get back onto a bike. It's been a hard road coming back from his injury. Sending healing thoughts and prayers to your friend. <3 <3 <3
@MOAB-UT3 ай бұрын
@@findinghopealongthejourney I sold mine too- quit while I was ahead. Glad he is adapting and still getting out there once in a while.
@beverly98853 ай бұрын
I’m so glad you shared what happened to Chris. I’m a new subscriber, and very impressed and motivated by his progress.I know you have been a huge part of his rehabilitation process, and just day to day life. ❤️
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
We appreciate you joining us on this journey!
@beverly98853 ай бұрын
Awesome ride! I haven’t been on the sand in years….first I stopped being able to walk on it, even with a Walker, and my power chair is made for flat, indoor surfaces. I didn’t realize where you were until I saw the Belmont Park sign. You’re in my neck of the woods! Nice ride!
@findinghopealongthejourney2 ай бұрын
Maybe one day we will see you out there! We love San Diego!!
@beverly98853 ай бұрын
Well done!
@beverly98853 ай бұрын
Congratulations! I am so impressed with your strength of of will and the hard work you have done to make this possible! I am on a similar journey, at 384 days after my injury. I am so inspired by you! Well done! I look forward to seeing your progress!
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Thank you for sharing! Are you documenting your journey as well? We would love to cheer you on as you make your comeback!!
@starriderkittykat90643 ай бұрын
My Ex was Prez of a MC and no matter were we went it was always 100 mph unless it was a charity run or poker run... Ive been riding since 1982 And know the risks.. I got mangled in a dn cage,some jerk talking on his cell hit the car i was a passenger in head on,like hitting a brick wall doing over 50mph.. Ive had two spinal surgeries in 2019 and live in agony... So dont matter bike or car,one day youe the target!
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
I'm so sorry that happened to you. People are so inconsiderate and the phone use is ridiculous. I've nearly been taken out on the freeway from people talking with their phone to the ear that never checked the blindspot. Hope you are able to find relief for your pain. Thanks for checking in on our page!
@janepearson58023 ай бұрын
What a miracle your husband survived. Not many would have lived . Prayers from uk
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Thank you! I don't believe any other rider would have made it. Chris is just a bigger guy and built tough for sure! Wishing you all the best from across the pond!
@janepearson58023 ай бұрын
@@findinghopealongthejourney good job he has a tough lady supporting him . God bless you both .
@user-ys7uo4fw3h3 ай бұрын
Pray for recovery
@leatharay35653 ай бұрын
I try to be very aware of bikers when I drive…I hate it when they weave in and out of cars.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
I'm not a fan of lane splitting. They just passed a limited lane splitting allowance in AZ, specifying that traffic must be stopped before the motorcycle can move up to the front of the light. That I understand, it'll help keep them from getting rear-ended. However, it has turned into a lot of riders lane splitting on the highways.Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
@ryanwyrick69473 ай бұрын
well you're gonna need to articulate that on a sign right in front of the space cuz no one is gonna know and half of everyone is clueless to begin with and cant make out basic connections like this. Most dont care anyway. Their logic is if it isnt on a sign its fair game...
@pixieclifton3 ай бұрын
I worked 16 years at a brain injury rehabilitation facility I don’t understand why anyone would ever ride a motorcycle. The thrill could never be worth the very real risk of ending up “living” like the patients I worked with.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
It has been an interesting experience working in the field and also being a rider. I've rehabbed many motorcyclists before our accident, and just as many since then. Some get back on, some don't. My job is to get them to whichever goal they choose, but for those that do, I've told them if I catch them riding wild or without a helmet, I'm taking their keys! ;) Thanks for your hard work in the community. TBIs take a lot of rehab, love and understanding to make it through. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. :)
@abbyle703 ай бұрын
I just found your KZfaq. First I want to thank your husband for his service for our country. I know Chris by your videos is a veteran but I feel you are too?? Secondly you’re amazing and because of this Chris is determined. I am so glad I found your journey. God Bless you and your family.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! I am not a veteran, just a very proud wife and supporter of those who keep us safe in the night! Thank you for watching!
@theresekirkpatrick33373 ай бұрын
Oh my we live in chino valley and my husband rides to jerome on the highway. Prayers for Chris’ recovery
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Thank you! One day we will get up to Jerome for a visit! Stay safe out there and thanks for watching!
@theresekirkpatrick33373 ай бұрын
My husband is a bicyclist and i so worry when he’s riding the road. 😢
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
I've worked with quite a few in therapy over the years. They are definitely at risk every ride, as well. Wishing he stays safe on his journeys! Thank you for sharing!
@sandyfields99333 ай бұрын
May God continue to bless Chris & his family.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@sharonf4683 ай бұрын
Insurance was shopping for long term facilities after my son's TBI. Today, he's married and is running his own business. I sooooo get it.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
I am so happy to hear he is doing well! Insurance companies drive me crazy. Thanks for sharing!
@karenhalgren38893 ай бұрын
WTG Chris!!!
@j.m.18063 ай бұрын
It's not if you drop your bike it's when. Gambling can be very destructive. Be well
@MoreThanMistified3 ай бұрын
🙏🙏🙏🌹⭐️
@sananselmospacescienceodys73083 ай бұрын
Motorcycles scare me silly.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
I can understand that for sure. Appreciate you being here!
@user-vj2ls8sd6n3 ай бұрын
That is absolutely awesome. Drs will tell you what their minds think, you and your husband showed what y'all's think. Amen to y'all's determination
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@Ballme603 ай бұрын
One important factor that you didn't discuss is, if a person with a handicap parking permit parks in a handicap parking spot and an abled body person get out of the vehicle and the handicap person remains in the car, they are also parked illegal. The permit is to allow the handicap person to park closer! The abled body person doesn't need to be closer.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Yes! 100% agree. Thanks for pointing that out!
@douglas.macmurrayАй бұрын
So you are saying if I go to the store with my wife and I decide to stay in the car instead of going in, it then is illegal for us to park in a disabled parking slot? I am pretty sure that is false! I understand that you may not like it but it's not illegal.
@findinghopealongthejourneyАй бұрын
@@douglas.macmurray in our state, the placard is for whomever it was assigned to. I assume that would be her. If you drove her there, I don't see much reason to say you can't wait there for her (personal opinion). However, if you were to go somewhere without her, yet still use the placard, assuming you are not determined disabled by the MVD, then yes, that is misuse and considered illegal here. Thank you for your input. :)
@Ballme60Ай бұрын
@@douglas.macmurray Yes it is illegal. The handicap spot is NOT there to make easier for a disabled person to park and an abled person to run inside. My wife is disabled, and I know enough not to park in a handicap spot when she is not getting out of the vehicle. So you don't understand, it is not how I feel, it's the law.
@lisamaczura39143 ай бұрын
How wonderful! So happy for you!
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
It was such a good day! So happy!!
@cissybug43 ай бұрын
Way to go Chris!!!! You came across my suggested watch today and I just binged watched… you are an amazing wife friend and person and Chris you are amazing for what you show is possible….don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can not do…. What got me sucked into watching was your personality and the way you explain things and well I just wanted to say how glad I am you popped up on my page.. the both of you are very strong people
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Thank you so much!
@user-pm3ee2si5y3 ай бұрын
I come from a motorcycle cycle riding family. I had to stop riding with my husband because he would not accept thst motor cycles have to follow the same rules as cars. It's a sad accident, but it didn't have to happen. Like you said there was a line of cars. Motor cycles have to learn they have to wait the same as cars. I know they are smaller and the temptation is to just pass on by. No one should have passed that truck. It was carelessness
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
I appreciate your view, I really do. In this case, the driver of that truck lost his suit due to driving 8-20mph in a 55 mph zone for over 15 minutes, refusing to pull into the right hand slow lane for passing more than once, and admitting he had bad brakes which is why he didn't want to drive the speed limit. No hazard lights, and plenty of pulloffs. As I said, the reality is that if it weren't him, it could have been a hit from behind by a distracted driver. I do agree that laws are purposeful. At the end of the day, it was an unfortunate accident. If any rider takes lesson here, it is certainly to follow the laws of the road, be as patient as can be, and keep your head on a swivel. I appreciate you opening up the discussion because everyone can certainly learn from what we've been through. Including those hauling heavy equipment with poor consideration for others and unsafe vehicle maintenance. 😉 Wishing you all the best and hope all those riders in your family stay safe out there! ❤️
@doglover82043 ай бұрын
I admire your grace and ability to be kind to those who feel the need to chastise your husband’s actions on the day of his accident. Know one knows what the right move to take was in this case. The guy pulled over….. in my mind that is where he belonged until the majority of the traffic passed. Your situation is so tough…. your hubby has worked hard and you have worked even harder to see that his goals are achieved and you are set on fighting the system to continue to get him the best of care no matter what. Your calm and positive attitude is essential to those facing the type of injuries your husband has endured. We would all be lucky to have someone like you on “our team” in these types of experiences. I applaud you and am pulling for your hubby. ❤️❤️❤️🙏
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
@@doglover8204 I appreciate your response. That's the hard part about sharing our life experiences, there's always going to be different opinions and perspectives. The comment section isn't for anyone with thin skin, for sure. ;) At the end of the day, I just hope we can improve motorcycle awareness, share Chris' recovery and hopefully provide hope to someone else just starting out. Thanks again for your support!
@saharazin3 ай бұрын
I just found your video this evening. It gave me hope when hope is hard to find from therapists and doctors.
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
@@saharazin Never give up your hope. Thank you so much for being here!
@solomoncutlip88253 ай бұрын
My son was killed in 2022 because an idiot didn’t take 2 extra seconds to see or hear??my son’s Harley before he made a turn at 60mph into a bojangles parking lot. The only thing I’m thankful for was it was instant for my son. my therapists thinks it’s helpful to relate to others in similar situations. Not sure about that yet. Not sure about your situation but sounds like you fight hard in life too so I wish u guys the best
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
I am so sorry for your loss. I think you will find your healing on your own schedule, no one can rush you through that and there is no limit to grieving. I wish people paid more attention on the road. We are thinking of you and your family as you continue to go through this loss of your son. Much love sent out to you!!
@LilyGazou3 ай бұрын
Great device!
@findinghopealongthejourney3 ай бұрын
Chris has a lot of fun on it! Not as fast as his bike but still puts the wind in his face. 😉 Thanks for watching!