On May 19 2000, I nearly lost my life in a terrible car accident. From the accident scene, I was transported to Hennepin County Medical Center 
where I arrived in critical condition. Within the first 24 hours, doctors, nurses, and staff stabilized me. Then my family and I began my second chance on life. After 13 staples, over 100 stitches, and a buzzed haircut I awoke in my room in the Knapp Rehab center. I soon learned I had suffered from a traumatic brain injury leaving me in a coma with anterograde amnesia and brain damage. After a week in the ICU
and neurology floors of the hospital, I was transferred to the Knapp Rehabilitation center. There I beganoccupational, speech, physical, and recreational therapy as they taught me how to live again. Plagued with massive headaches and constantly forgetting where I was, I fought back. Instead of succumbing to defeat, the Knapp Rehab center challenged and guided me to cherish my second chance at life. 10 years later, I want to help and inspire others and their families dealing with traumatic brain injuries. With the courage and strength inspired by those at Knapp, I will be riding my bike from coast to coast. I will begin in San Diego, CA on September 19, 2010, and I will finish in St. Augstine, FL on November 22, 2010. Please help me and other victims of traumatic brain injuries with your thoughts, prayers, and pledges. Thank you.
