Once again, something has temporarily halted progress on my dream of becoming an accomplished equestrian. Friday evening, Nikki spooked badly at something while I was standing next to him in the arena. He reared, came back down then leaped forward and kicked out with his hind foot, making contact with the back of my right hand. My husband, who saw it out of the corner of his eye, started to meander over, half chuckling – “oh geez, her ridiculously big, spooky horse got loose again.” Then he looked at me and, realizing all was not OK, asked if I was all right. ” No,” I said. “Nikki kicked me in the hand, I see bone, and I’d like to go to the hospital now.”
So, now I’m sitting here trying to type this post with only my left hand, bag of ice on my right. I was lucky – no broken bones and all tendons appear intact. The nice ER doctor eventually stitched my hand back together and sent me home. They think it will heal well.
My friend has agreed to make time to come exercise Nikki for me. Hopefully, that will help get us back to the show ring more quickly once I’m back in the saddle.
I’m trying hard not to blame myself and remember that this truly was an accident that could have happened to even an accomplished equestrian. On Saturday, the day after the accident, I got my husband to tie Nikki up in the barn aisle for me so I could brush him. My very first riding instructor taught me to get right back on the horse if you fall off; a left hand only brushing was the best I could do. I really don’t want to lose the confidence Nikki and I were enjoying.
And judging by the blog A Horse And A Half, I am not the only one who gets injured around their horse. Have you ever been injured when dealing with your pets? Tell me your stories – hopefully we can share a laugh.
I’m sure next week will be a happier post! I’ll try hard to get some pictures up – I’ll skip the pictures of my hand.
Danelle
(Danelle left 8 Women Dream in March of 2010 and is still working on her dream is to become an accomplished equestrian)
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I admire your tenacity. Thank goodness public speaking doesn’t involve injury or I might never open my mouth … wait … that might be a good thing.
We are glad you are OK.