As I sat in the doctor’s room, my body became numb. It’s a simple ligament, calling for an extensive recovery. Without it, no stability is attained so how would an athlete function? She can’t. The ACL is the focal point of the knee and once again the focal point of my life.
From the room, the doctor’s voice was heard down the hall, and seconds later, he was sitting in front of me.
“The ACL is torn.” The words came out of his mouth with confidence.
My shoulders dropped as the disappointment overcame the anticipation. The ski season of my senior year was about to kick off. I felt lost.
I was taken back to the moment two years earlier when I was given the same news. I was devastated, but determined. That year, I never let my injury stop me from bundling up in the cold to cheer on my teammates, even if I was on crutches. With every month that passed, my ACL became more durable. I pushed through the enduring workouts and pain and eventually reached full recovery.
Nine months. That’s how long my recovery time was and will be again. This time, it will be second nature, and I will anticipate everything that is coming. It will be done meticulously. Rehab will be my focus and recovery my goal. Ski racing in college is what I’ve intended to do and these injuries aren’t going to stop me.
Since ski racing was no longer an option this year, I began filling my head with ideas of what to do instead of sports. Staying involved is the least I can do if I can’t ski race. Helping children has always been my interest. I’ve always wanted to volunteer at Children’s Hospital, but I’ve never had the time; although now, it’s an option. Yes, it will be another antagonizing ski season of sitting at the bottom of the hill, watching, but I intend to be the loudest cheering section.
Being in a sport isn’t entirely about competing; it’s also about being a part of something, meeting new friends and supporting each other. Attending CSU and being apart of the Alpine Club Team is where I can meet friends that share similar interests, and with that we can compete as one.
These injuries are depressing at first, but I’ve learned it’s what I make of the experience that counts. I was given the chance to get a new perspective on life and have matured greatly over a brief period of time. I’ve learned that through hard work and perseverance, I can overcome anything. CSU is where I plan to continue my passion for skiing, but more importantly furthering my academics and thriving at my next step in life.