Lemony Landing

a blog about marriage, motherhood, and mental illness

The Cause of My Faith: Surviving a Terrible Accident

TRIGGER WARNING: THE FOLLOWING NARRATIVE OF A CAR ACCIDENT MAY TRIGGER ANXIETY FOR SOME.

Doctors said it was unlikely. My family was told I may not survive.

Yet, here I am: A living, walking miracle.

When I was involved in an accident involving I-95, a box truck, and me on foot, things didn’t look good.

I don’t remember a thing about the accident, either shortly before or several weeks after.

I just knew my panic attacks had come back a few times in the past couple months and been intense, so I was trying more therapy and adjusting my medication. Moving that summer and getting adjusted to a new area had been busy, but overall, I was feeling pretty happy. I had new friends and great neighbors. I was happy to be back on the East Coast. Mike was enjoying his new job and worked with some nice people.

The details:

According to my kids, Sunday morning, the 28th of January, I was driving and started freaking out around the Maryland state line. I pulled over to the median grass way and got out of the car. And I walked out into traffic.

A few cars swerved to avoid me, until I was hit by a truck that couldn’t get out of my way.

Anyone that knows me knows this behavior is not my normal personality.

After being hit, my head was broken open, so you could see my brain. My right arm and left leg were snapped and my pelvis was broken too. I was bleeding internally and was brought back three times in the ambulance.

My poor husband got word from the police that arrived on the scene and safely escorted the kids back to him.

Friends missed me at church and were concerned. Many of my friends found out more on Facebook through articles like this or that. They thought I was dead or so seriously injured I would never have my life back.

The prayers began.

I know my life was saved by the prayers and fasts of these concerned friends, my devoted family, temples all over the country, several congregations, and several short blessings with commands to heal.

I know God used those doctors and perfected their work to save my life. My work on earth is not yet done.

I’ve never been so grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

And that is the cause of my faith.

I just need to slow down and trust God to guide my way. If he is telling me anything, it is to slow down.

So, for now, I am taking life a day at a time.

One day at a time. And it is mostly good.

Comments

  1. Sarah, I have been wondering if you would write about this. When Shawna told me the day this happened, my heart sank for you and your family, and I requested prayers from all on my fb friends list and our Ward to join with your loved ones. I sometimes wanted to visit you at the hospital since I work next door but felt that would be awkward. My prayers and thoughts joined with others frequently.

    You truly are a walking miracle. In fact, I hope you don’t mind, but that’s what I told Joey’s mother as you were leaving Hailey’s birthday party in August. I remember seeing you at the Memorial Day picnic and feeling so relieved you were walking even with a cane. I was surprised you remembered meeting me in December. I am so glad the Lord preserved so much of your good memories. My heart soars with joy for you and your family.

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  2. Oh my goodness Sarah, I had no idea! I’m so sorry and so glad and thankful you survived. Through my trials I’ve also had to rely on my faith, no matter how small. You’re in my prayers.

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  4. The Lord has great purposes for you one is to performed miracles so others can see them thr
    you.May His love sourrounds you thru life.Glad to hear of your testimony and faith.we love your family.

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  5. I loved reading this. You are so real and open and honest. Just like the rest of your family. Enjoy your Journey dearest Sarah. It is yours alone and a gift from a Father in Heaven who knows you best. Love you so very much

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  6. My dear Sarah, you are proof that God lives, and that He blesses us with miracles. Your honestly and open heart will bless others that struggle with the many difficulties of life. Your example as a faithful Saint strengthens my testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Love you always.

    Reply

  8. Sarah, Mike and I were shocked to find out about the accident when you posted this. We had no idea. I am so glad you are alive. And thank you for sharing your journey. I’m not sure I will even fully understand in this life why anyone has to deal with mental illness, but I know you are making a difference by sharing your experiences. I hope you and Mike and the kids are well. I am praying for you.
    -Sarah Clark

    Reply

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