Hit by two cars – by Kyle

In 2013, I was leaving the barber shop, and as I was crossing the street I was hit by a car, which pushed me into oncoming traffic. I was then hit by a second car in the oncoming lane. One of my cousins in a nearby store phoned my family, and many family members and friends met at Sunnybrook, where I had been taken.
 
My head was swelling and needed immediate surgery. As a result, I was in an induced coma for 3-4 weeks to prevent the swelling and pressure from getting worse. During this time, my doctors gave the option for my family to pull the plug, but my mom refused.
 
The doctors gave the option for my family to pull the plug, but my mom refused.
When I came out of the coma, my son was afraid to come close to me because of all the wires. He was about 3 years old and asked, “Daddy has a booboo?” He wouldn’t come to the side of the bed, because he was scared to.
 
My uncle is a pastor, and many people came and would hold hands and pray for me. I had a lot of support. 
 
Two years ago, I went to see a neurologist, because I was doing far better than was originally expected. During a previous visit, four years before that, he had outlined to my family about how I would have to relearn how to breathe, eat, walk, basically perform all the daily functions necessary for life. He was astonished at my recovery.
 
I now walk with a cane outside in physio, and can walk without a cane or use stairs at home, and in special circumstances for practice. My left side is my weak side, and I’m strengthening it in physio.
 
My son is now 10 years old and is getting used to coping with the situation.
 
I feel so much better, since I now see the light at the end of the tunnel, so it’s not as depressing as it was a couple of years ago.
 
It’s important to stay positive and upbeat, and to never give up.
Currently, I’m trying to get my life back, by working on the quality of my life. Physio is really important. Coming to Mind Forward is helping me socially, and the activities are interesting and they keep me going.
 
In a couple of years, I see myself as much more independent, walking without a cane. The key is to be positive and be determined. Try to enjoy yourself when you can in life. I’m happier now and have made peace with myself.
 
Going through this experience shows you who really cares for you, and who clearly cares for what your best interests are in life. It also gives you insight so you can see what things in life are truly important.
 
Kyle has recently been using a cane around Mind Forward.
When asked, “How does it feel to go from a wheelchair to a cane?”
Kyle answered: “I feel busy for the most part. I feel like whatever work I’m doing (physio for example) is paying off. My mental state has gone up and my confidence. I couldn’t even dream about walking, back in the day.”
 
I’ve been at Mind Forward since 2014, and have been actively coming to the day programs for two years. The staff are compassionate and have been very helpful to me. Mind Forward has been a great resource for me and has helped me with skill-building.