“In a Blink of an Eye”

For those who don’t know, this is my story. 

Life can change in an instant, and mine did.  What was supposed to be a beautiful day on October 4th, exploring La Cueva del Indio turned into a horrible nightmare I will never forget. While standing on top of the rocky cliffs, covered in sharp, dead coral, a massive wave came out of nowhere and crashed over us. Seconds later, a second wave hit even harder. In a matter of moments, we were thrown violently, with no time to react or escape. 

 My best friend and my boyfriend were swept into the ocean and nearly drowned. I was slammed against the rocks and left trapped on the edge, unable to move too far because of my pain and bleeding out, while the waves kept crashing around me. I had to wait for rescue, in agony and helpless, until paramedics were able to reach me and carry me out on a stretcher. 

 All three of us were seriously hurt. I suffered a broken hip, a dislocated shoulder with torn ligaments, deep cuts, bruises, and scrapes. My best friend had a broken rib, a collapsed lung, head trauma, and more cuts and bruises than I can count. My boyfriend was also badly beaten by the waves, covered in scrapes, bruises, and wounds, and he too nearly drowned. 

 It’s hard to put into words what we went through, and I haven’t been able to post anything until now because I’ve been focused on simply surviving and healing, one day at a time. Right now, I’m limited in movement and spending all day in bed, in pain and with a long road ahead. 

But through all of this, I feel incredibly blessed. I have the most amazing daughter who has been my rock, by my side nonstop, caring for me with so much love and strength. My mom and sister have been by my side through it all. My niece and nephew have stepped in to support me in every way possible. And my work family has been there in every way imaginable, offering incredible support, kindness, and generosity. They have truly been a great blessing for me and my family during this difficult time. I don’t have enough words to express my gratitude. 

Most of all, I’m thankful that the three of us are alive.

We’re still here. 

We’re healing. 

And we’re taking it one day at a time. 

Thank you to everyone who has checked in, prayed for us, has helped in every way possible, or simply kept us in your thoughts. Your love is part of what’s helping us get through this. 

Never take a single moment for granted. Life can change in a second, but love and support can carry you through the unthinkable. ❤️ 

Life changed in an instant, and recovery has been long and painful. I am so incredibly grateful to my family, friends, work family, and loved ones for their unwavering support since day one, for your donations, prayers, kind words, and for simply being there. You have truly been my anchor through this difficult time.

This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to ask for, and I share it with humility. Any help, no matter how small, will go toward living expenses, medical bills, and ongoing recovery, allowing me to focus on healing.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for holding me up, for caring, and for walking this journey with me. Your love and support mean more than words can express.

With gratitude and love,

Diana