Runner Gets Hit By Car Head-On...Told She'd Never Run Again.

The Tragedy That Was My Gift

In twenty-seven years I've dedicated to the sport of running, I have won multiple awards in my division for races ranging from 5k's to marathons. Through the years, running has taken on many meanings for me, from general fitness to spirituality and inner peace.

Only a hardcore runner would understand the reasoning behind the words: "I'm going out for a 10 mile run to relax." I found running during a rough time in my life, while going through a divorce. Being the single parent of a six year old at the time was a grueling challenge, but the freedom of running and the camaraderie of the sport helped get me through it all. There was a point when my daughter would notice my stress and in her innocent wisdom advise: "Go for a run mommy; you'll feel better."

After my dad's death, the first thing I did was run. I ran before the services and after the funeral. That year I ran Disney World Marathon in his memory, as the previous year's Disney World Marathon was the last racing experience we shared together. When I was called up to receive the cherished Mickey Mouse Trophy, those watching thought my tears were due to winning, but they meant so much more.

After the September 11th world tragedy, I stood on the Verrazano Bridge, the start of the New York City Marathon, # 640, right up front; I was compelled to run to honor those who perished as well as celebrate the life I too often take for granted

April 4, 2006, at 3:30 in the afternoon, my life changed forever. In a nano-second, everything in my future would be different. I would never be the same again. I was running from my home over the bridge to Gateway National Park where I eventually run a car-free path. I was tragically hit head-on by an irresponsible driver who wasn't paying attention. I remember the impact...the pain...the fear. I vividly remember trying to push the truck out of my way! It is amazing, human reaction. It didn't work. I was thrown 20 feet in the air like a basketball and remained conscious the whole time to FEEL the excruciating pain. They closed bridge and I recall seeing school buses and cars lining up. The craziest thing (or not so crazy for a runner) is that all I could think of is them fixing me up quickly so I could continue my run. Apparently, I had no idea as to the extent of my injuries!

Three weeks in the hospital, multiple surgeries, and additional visits for blood clots developed from a new sedentary lifestyle, I went from running 40 miles a week to sitting in a wheelchair. I felt as like my life had ended. The doctor said I would never run again. In fact, he said I would be lucky if I walked without a limp.

I vividly remember watching through the peephole in my front door at life going on around me...without me. Wherever the nurse placed me for the day is where I was stuck. I couldn't move or even pull myself around on the floor.

My goal of moving up from marathons to ultras soon changed to getting off the bedpan and going to the bathroom on my own; taking a shower by myself and the biggest challenge was eventually using the walker. After that monumental step, I had to learn to walk all over again. I never knew the soles of your feet could be so sensitive. And I thought I had a high pain threshold! After all, I am a marathon runner! No way. There were times all I could do was lock myself in the bathroom and scream until the pain ceased. But I'm a runner and my healthy body helped me recover better than most.

Three years of recovery, physical therapy and multiple surgeries; I learned that this accident was the biggest tragedy and greatest blessing in my life. I spent a great deal of time with myself. People I thought would be there for me weren't and those I never even thought of showed up. I had no idea I was loved by so many. I never knew I had so much courage, endurance and determination.

Now I am running again; doing what I love; and NO limp. I even ran my first race, which happened to fall a day after the three-year anniversary of my accident! The race was a 15K hilly course through roads and trails called Indian Trails. I was stunned that I ran only 5 minutes slower than my 2004 time and I took 1st place in my division with a time of 1:16:04. After receiving my trophy for first place, I was honored with the "Comeback Award" for dedication, determination and unconditional belief in myself. I have to pinch myself - I am blessed with so many people who love me. Now I am racing within minutes of my pre-accident race times, but the true gift in all of this are the lessons I have learned and the love I have realized.

Please check out my book, Poetry for the Soul http://amzn.to/n2v20h.It was part of my healing process.

Category:

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• tragedy
• courage
• determination
• accident
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• marathon
• inspiration
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• resolve
• pain
• car
• winner
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• Race

[sunflowerdc]

Sometimes all you thought you knew changes in a moment...and life takes a new turn. It is in our resistance or acceptance that makes all the difference:)

Dawn Gurbisz Ciccone

[cassierool]

This inspied me to never give up now matter what hits me i wont give up up it is people like her who help our country i just want to say thankyou

[sunflowerdc]

@cassierool I like your attitude:) YOU are too pre4cious to ever give up on yourself...the world needs you. Thank you for responding.

[sunflowerdc]

Every morning is a new opportunity to change your life. I've had many miracles in mine. As tireless as the ocean's movement, I thank God with each pounding of the road!

Dawn Gurbisz Ciccone

[sunflowerdc]

It wasn't easy, but then again, nothing worthwhile is:) Thank you.

[rjmchugh]

Wow how moving! I'm doing my 4th marathon in 12 months this Sunday. I can't imagine how tough a struggle you went threw. I hate rest days! God bless, and thanks for sharing your story!

[sunflowerdc]

@rjmchugh Thank you and good luck in your marathon:)

[gilboagogo]

When you look up the word comeback in Webster's Dictionary, there is a picture of Dawn. God bless you girl, and thanks for giving me the kick in the ass I needed.

[RunwithGod4ever]

WOW. What a comeback story? Your recovery is so remarkable and inspiring. A true runner always thinks about how to get back up and run again. Thanks for sharing your story.

[sunflowerdc]

December 25, 2011. Merry Christmas!! What a wonderful gift to be able to run:) I don't run the same, will never completely feel my feet or have the agility I use to have, but I want you all to know that with faith, determination, courage and patience...anything if possible! Wishing you all a year of noticing the miracles in your life:)

[sunflowerdc]

Thank you and good luck to you in the marathon. Please post me on how you make out...I'd love to hear back from you:)

Dawn