Chelsea’s Expenses from Traumatic Bike Accident

Hey friends. On 11/17 I was in a bike accident involving a vehicle turning into my bike lane while I was descending at a very fast speed. It was incredibly congested with traffic - I could not see him at all. I reacted swiftly upon his car pulling in front of me, braked hard and tried to swerve out of danger, however, it happened so instantaneously that there was no avoiding the crash.

My steel bike hit the car and cracked in two places. I flew over the car and landed head, face, and shoulder directly into the asphalt. The good news is I’m still here because of my helmet, which cracked and has several impact sites. Besides road rash and other lingering soft tissue damage, I did suffer a TBI. I’ll be seeing a neurologist to ensure it has not gotten worse since I was discharged from the hospital. My shoulder has a sprain at the AC joint limiting my abilities and my work (both with our small business and in the movement realm). I’ll be needing physical therapy once it has stabilized a bit more. Somehow I did not fracture any major bones!! I did have minor fractures in my cheekbones, but those have not been too bothersome. My lips were lacerated in multiple places. I lost 2 teeth, cracked one tooth, and 4 teeth were pushed inward, causing the teeth to die, requiring root canals on all 4 teeth. I have a long road ahead for healing and with doctor visits, the most pressing of which is neurological therapy and extensive dental work. Aside from the massive hospital/ER bill, I have a lot of dental expenses that will never get covered because the amount exceeds any insurance plans. I’ll be needing dental implants, crowns, root canals, and that’s just the start.

I am extraordinarily appreciative to be alive and to continue to enjoy this life - I know how fortunate I am to have survived. At the present, my reality is far different than what it used to be, and this path of healing has been a humbling teaching moment. This time of year is already financially challenging, and the last thing I’d ever wish is to ask for monetary help. Unfortunately, the resulting expenses are too much for my current financial situation. If you have the access and ability to give a few dollars, I’m immensely grateful. I can’t thank you enough - sending lots of love.

Chelsea Gibson