A year ago today, my life changed in more ways than I could ever anticipate. I was trapped under a bridge for 6 days, my left leg crushed and pinned, ankle and hand both broken, unable to squeeze out of my truck. My phone was out of reach. I couldn’t move. I couldn’t yell loud enough to attract attention. It was me vs. the impossible — and somehow, I achieved the impossible!

This past year has been full of pain, struggle, and challenges I never expected— like learning to walk again (painful), learning to run (still learning), and figuring out how to live (still learning this too) a life that feels a lot different than it did one year and a day ago. 

But here’s the crazy part: I’m thankful for it all. I’ve been blown away by the kindness of strangers, the support from friends, and the simple fact that I’m still alive to tell this story. I’ve had people recognize me in stores, share how my story inspired them, and am constantly reminded that sometimes my pain becomes someone else’s hope. 

This past year has taught me to be thankful—not just for life, but for people. The ones who encourage me, make me laugh, and remind me that even the hardest challenges serve a purpose. 

I’m not the same person I was a year ago — and for that, I’m thankful. Over the next 6 days I will be sharing 6 different things that I have learned, or had to practice over this last year. Thank you all, and Happy Holidays.