That's all, Folks!

I am sad to announce that my cross-country bike ride came to an end yesterday when I fell off my bike somewhere between Memphis and Marine City, Michigan.

We were riding along at 16-17 mph and I accidentally got too close to Rob's bike, bumped his tire, and instantly was deposited on the pavement. Or so I am told, as I cannot remember anything about the crash. My bike helmet did its job, sacrificing itself to prevent me from possibly a very serious injury.

An ambulance was summoned and I was taken to a trauma center hospital in suburban Detroit some 30-odd miles from the crash scene. Mark, Dee Dee, and Rob took Bruce's and my bike to a nearby farm for safekeeping, then proceeded to ride at speed into a headwind to the hospital. (I think we had already ridden over 40 miles that morning).

Initially, it was believed that I was suffering from bruises and road rash (after being X-rayed and CT scanned), but then I developed a huge hematoma on my hip and thigh. I don't think I am exaggerating when I say it was about the size of a spaghetti squash (very shocking-looking under spandex bike shorts).

The ER doc called in an orthopedic surgeon and he diagnosed a torn muscle with a lot of bleeding. So, last night I underwent surgery (with a general anesthetic) to repair the damage and install a drain. And here I sit in the hospital, planning on checking out this afternoon. Our immediate plans are to return to Bay City, then make travel plans for points west.

One incredible act of kindness was the ER doc handing over his truck keys (truck has bicycle racks) so that the guys could return to the farm and pick up our bikes and bring them to the hotel near the hospital. Then last night, Rob got a rental car and they all drove to Bay City (two hours each way) to bring back Rob's truck to transport us back to Bay City.

It has been a splendid ride from June 25 to August 30. I'm sorry it's over for me, but especially sorry that its the end of the ride for Rob and Bruce. We are already making plans for coming back and completing it next year. Mark and Dee Dee will continue on this afternoon, as they've got a lobster or two they need to meet.

The surgeon was just in and I got a good report for a complete recovery, although it will probably take well over a month or two. Thank you for all your kind emails of encouragement over the summer.

~ Sue