OPINION: The long road to recovery, part 1

As part of her recovery process, Madeline Grace has chosen to write about her experience.

South Burnett Times reporter, Madeline Grace. Picture: Madeline Grace

IN APRIL this year, South Burnett Times journalist, Madeline Grace, was hit by a car on the Haly St, Kingaroy pedestrian crossing.

As part of her recovery process, Madeline has chosen to write about her experience.

Here is part one of her series of columns.

HELLO there South Burnett, it's been a while.

I'm back after being away the last three months.

I was hit by a car while in the middle of the Haly St zebra pedestrian crossing outside of The South Burnett Times office on Friday April 13.

The ute was travelling at 30 to 40km/h.

I hit the ute's bulbar and then went forward approximately five to seven metres before landing on the bitumen.

An ambulance was called around 1.35pm.

I have spent the last three months actively recovering.

From the accident I had sustained head, face, back, and leg injuries.

I had skull fractures, a mild to moderate traumatic brain injury, a concussion, oxygen on my brain, two pelvis fractures, severe facial bruising, possibly an eye socket fracture, two sprained knees and ankles, torn/ruptured cartilage in my left knee, a severely stretched ligament in my left ankle, whiplash, and bone bruising down my left side.

I spent the first two and a half months on crutches and with quite limited mobility.

I'm also experiencing several Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms. It is too early yet for a diagnosis.

I am safe and actively recovering. My circumstances are improving at the expected rate.

I am incredibly thankful to have not suffered any more serious injuries and I have no feelings of bitterness or hate about the accident.

Accidents happen. I'm quite fortunate and am still far more privileged than many others.

I am thankful for having such a supportive work place and team, family, and friends.

Without their constant understanding and support I would not be able to stay as positive about my ongoing recovery as I have been.

As my workload increases I will continue writing about my recovery.

Hopefully this may bring some understanding towards trauma, PTSD, temporary brain injuries, and the victim blaming attitudes I've faced.

NEXT WEEK: What recovery means, and the impact of victim blaming.