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@dirkbang
I've just come back from seeing a mate of mine who had an accident while training with his team in Richmond Park 2 years ago.
The accident happened when he collided with the guy in front and fell off his bike and into oncoming traffic.
His head (wearing a helmet I may add) took the full force of a car travelling at 30mph, severing the nerves in the right hand side of his brain.
He was in a coma for 2 months, is now paralysed on his left side, and needs 24 hour care.
If it wasn't for his helmet he would now be dead. And although he is rebuilding his life and will be seriously disabled for the rest of it. He is still very much the same person inside, and is very thankful to be given another chance.
When I first saw him in hospital I wasn't sure if - put in the same situation - I would have rather have been killed then go through what he has. But the more I see him recover the more I am glad a helmet saved his life.
Saying that - I only wear one while commuting, which he keeps giving me grief for.