Barbara (Babette) Bersch
In 2019, I was run over by my own vehicle (SUV) … zero alcohol and no shenanigans. This life-changing accident resulted in a life-flight to a trauma-one center in critical condition and on life support. The phrase, “Everything can change in a New York minute,” is firmly and forever planted in the forefront of my mind and has changed the way I approach living my life!
My injuries included 14 “shattered” ribs that were rebuilt with titanium. I broke my back in two places, had a head injury, punctured a lung, was bleeding internally, broke my left shoulder and right clavicle, and had a degloving injury on my leg resulting in a hematoma the size of my head. I laid in the street for five hours before I was able to get help.
I’m a bit accident prone, but this temporary tragedy was in a different league. It took me approximately two years to fully recover, and now I can thankfully look back and even laugh about it—all the while appreciating the severity of my close brush with death. I’m now back to working full-time, playing tennis, golf, and pickleball, and traveling to some of my “bucket-list” destinations! I’ve recently been to Africa twice and am planning a trip to China. I’ve also written a book, Babette’s Bubble-Wrap Couture®, which is a light-hearted, inspirational, and healing short read for anyone challenged with recovering from an illness or accident.
One thing that became very apparent during my healing process is that we are all survivors in some way or another! Whether you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, gone through a divorce, suffered an illness or diagnosis, or have been dealt any other challenge in your life—we could all benefit from a little “bubble wrap” every now and again! Stay safe and enjoy every single day!
P.S. I will be hosting a book signing on Aug. 3 at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 1446 N. Litchfield Rd., Goodyear, AZ 85395.