It’s been a while since the last update on this site. I missed the October 1 email newsletter, too. And updates have also been pretty slow lately in the Twitter community and for Subscribers.
There’s a good reason.
On September 24, I had a serious accident while swimming in the ocean at Kaanapali Beach on Maui. A strong wave grabbed me and slammed me headfirst into the sand, knocking me momentarily unconscious and temporarily paralyzing me. I was underwater and unable to breathe, and if not for the heroic actions of about 5-6 beachgoers who dragged me out of the water, I’d be dead right now.
That’s me in the photo above, being carried on a stretcher by the Maui police and emergency medical service, as they took me to an ambulance and eventually to the hospital.
To make a long story short, I’m going to be fine … or at least mostly fine. I have what’s called Central Cord Syndrome and I’m in physical therapy right now rebuilding strength, particularly in my arms, hands, legs, and feet. The doctors were amazed that I suffered no broken bones. “We send most people home in a wheelchair when they go through what happened to you,” one doctor said.
Meanwhile, I’m happy to report that I resumed writing the book two nights ago! As long as I continue to improve, I expect to keep the writing momentum going. But since I’m in recovery mode and my body tires really easily these days, I have a feeling writing will be more of a 2-3 days per week thing, rather than 4-5 days per week like it was before the accident.
Also happy to report that I’ve posted a couple times in the Twitter community in the past week, and also shared an exclusive excerpt from Chapter 2 with my Twitter Subscribers just last night. And I’m planning to resume the monthly newsletter with a new edition on November 1.
I’m getting a little stronger every day and still very excited to work on OTR Vol. 25: The Untold History of atu2.com. Your prayers, thoughts, and support are appreciated!
(The photo is a screenshot from a video posted by Tod J. to a Maui news Facebook Page on the day of the accident.)
Matt, I missed this story when it was first posted, but came here from a link in your updates related to the @U2 book you’re writing.
I’m SO sorry this happened to you, and am SO glad you weren’t ‘sent home in a wheelchair!!’
I hope recovery continued going well, and that you’re back to your best self again.
I’m about 90-95% normal these days, and that’s probably how it’s gonna be permanently…so no complaints. I feel very fortunate to be alive. 🙂
Thanks for all the comments on the different posts, JJ — I appreciate it!!