UtahBMX.com

Well it's official. I can no longer ride a bike. It turns out that the crash I had two Thursdays ago finished me off. My bottom two Vertabrae in my spine are Crush Fractured. That along with my scholiosis(however its spelled), arthritis, twists, and bad genetics have weakened my spine too much. Both specialists have told me if I have another crash even a minor one, that I will be paralyzed. I can't lift anything over 10 pounds and have to do nothing for at least a month. After that I can start light resistance training with no impact. Even after my muscles are strengthened I can't do anything that will jar me. They told me no more bmx or mountain biking period. So I guess I'll just be there to support instead of ride. I don't know why I'm rambling, I guess to get it off my chest. Also I guess I'm going to sell my bike and stuff. I just ordered a new set of Saint Cranks. Anyway I guess I'll see everyone at the track.

Dave Williams

Dave

Man, I don't know what to say. Any injury is tough, whether a bruise, sprain, or broken bone. But something like this is.... wow.

Is there any type of "fusion" surgery or anything that can be done?

No matter what, it's good to know you'll still be getting around, though it may not be on a bike.

wow dave, that is too bad. Like Jason said, I don't know what to say.

I too am glad that you will stay involved.

That is really horrible news Dave and I am very sorry to hear it.

I worked at University Orthopedic Center (UOC) and one of the docs there, Dr. Darrel Brodke, was doing some experimental surgery with titanium vertibrae. Mind you, this was not ti disk fusion, but actual vertibrae to replace the crushed bone. I got to hold the prototype that Biomed dropped off. It was really pretty neat.

I seem to recall that the surgery costs a lot of money and is not suported by the insurance companies since it is experimental. This was almost two years ago though so maybe that has changed. I did find out that if insurance does not pick up the tab the biomed manufacturer ususally does as an investment to get the procedure validated so insurance will pick up future cases.

I am not sure what hospitals your insurance company covers, but you might want to consider speaking with a teaching hospital like the U. While I am not the biggest fan of the U hospital system, the UOC is top-notch and has only the best docs working there. They do quite a few experimental proceedures and are well known in sports medicine.

I hope all works out for you Dave. Keep me posted.

Dave, You're not just rambling. You're talking to family. That's what Utah BMX is all about. You have an awesome support group here for you. You're spirit and support to this sport is an important asset! Good luck with everything. I hope you're not suffering. Back problems are the WORST!

I'm really sorry to hear that Dave. I always enjoyed running behind you in all those races this year! Maybe sometime down the road something like Curtis mentioned could fix you back up! I think I can speak for everyone when I say we really like having you around! Don't you dare not come out to the track anymore!!! I also thank you for supporting us out at Ogden!!! I don't know what else to say. This is pretty hard pill to swallow!

Dan

Thanks to everyone for the encouragement. I just got home from surgery rebuilding my shoulder and just happen to have plenty of time to kill. I'm hoping to come out on Tuesday. I'm truly thankful to all of you, and look forward to seeing everyone.
Thanks
Dave