Seeing the Light

This is a true story. In 1983 I had a motorcycle accident; I was travelling at just 25 mph when someone stepped off of the pavement into the path of my bike; I came off of my bike. The internal injuries were horrific, so bad in fact that I died on the operating table; for a short time.

Because I was so poorly the surgeons could not give me too much anaesthetic. The result of this was I felt the surgeon's fingers digging into my stomach; but I could not move to let them know.

So, why am I telling you this very personal information? Well, my time in hospital had a major impact on me over and above what you might feel it would have.

Whilst in hospital I began speaking with a patient called Guy, and we became friends during my time there. I didn't know why Guy was in hospital, because I didn't ask. Guy had been in the hospital for much longer than me and one glorious summer day, I can remember it very clearly, Guy gave me some great news that he was soon to be going home. I told him he was a lucky sod and I said he must be very excited to be going home, but he didn't look too impressed; he shrugged his shoulders and nodded an unexcited, yes.

The hospital pastor, who had read me my last rights, visited me every day, and I mentioned the conversation I had with, Guy, and his muted response. What came next was one of the saddest moments of my life, then and now. He told me that Guy could not be helped anymore and he was going home, to die - he had cancer. Guy was 19.

This experience taught me to treasure life and family, and my choice since that time is to help people where I can. Not to moan about stupid things, and remember that, the messy stuff may hit the fan from time to time, but there is always someone who would love to be in my position.