A story about friends and leaves (and update)

The past couple of months have been extremely difficult for me and circumstances continue to progress downward, until this morning. I shared the warming morning light among the brittle winter leaves and the delicious smell of the earth with my friend and twelve year old canine companion Spark. This may seem routine. But this past Monday as I was helping a dear friend move from NJ to Manhattan, I was rear-ended going northbound on the Garden State Parkway. My Tacoma flipped, spun around a few times on the roof and then lurched upright. As I was spinning, I had said my goodbyes; for I was sure someone was going to slam directly into me. Sometime during these seconds Spark was ejected from the vehicle and onto the pavement. I saw him crawl to the shoulder under a small tree. Full of adrenaline I somehow got out of my crushed truck (I don’t remember that) and lied down beside him, he was quivering and bleeding. I was crying. There was a rush of people, then State Troopers, then EMS. My friend pulled the Uhaul to the scene, I put Spark into the truck and she was escorted to the nearest animal hospital. I was collared, put on a back board and sent to the emergency room. Somehow, by the grace of God, I escaped serious injury and was later released. Last night Spark was released. Today is the best day of my life. We are together, sore and a bit broken – but together. This morning, as we sat under an oak tree a squirrel gathered leaves, Spark had his head in my lap – and we watched the sunrise. He is not quite out of the woods, another day or two before we know for sure. I am not sure what we are going to do since I am presently unemployed and now without transportation. But all that was pushed aside as two old friends sat together once again and watched a squirrel gather leaves.

Will, that's an amazing and inspiring story. I'm so glad it had a happy ending. Thank you for sharing it!

Guy

Will, so good to hear that you both escaped without serious injury. After this morning, you have to believe that all will be well!

If you need any help whatsoever, please let us know. You are among friends, and friends help each other out in times of need.

Will, I am glad your traumatic experience, and Spark's, had ended as it did. Your concern for your dog in those circumstances is very moving.

I have seen many cases like yours come into the ER where I work. A tremendous amount of glass from the windshield is brought in with the patient. I know, I clean it up. Make sure there is no more bits of glass in Spark's coat although I am sure the Vet saw to that.

Will
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada

having just put my long time companion (a min schnauzer) of 15 yrs to rest a couple months ago,,
http://kimkaiser.com/display_photo.php?i=396

,i would do anything to have just a few more moments with him,,,,enjoy adn remember them while you can,,,,!!!hapy that you both survived to continue the special relationship beteween a man and his best friend,,!!

It goes to show that miracles can and do happen, Will!

My youngest son also escaped a similar accident a few years ago with minor injuries, while his Explorer was totaled.

I wish both you and Spark a complete and total recovery, in every way!

I'm thankful that you and Spark escaped serious injury. You and Spark will both be in my prayers. Thanks for sharing this with us.

You had me anxious, Will. I thought your story was going to end poorly - I'm sure glad it didn't. I'm glad to hear everyone is okay. I hope you're insured and can afford Spark's treatments (whatever they may be). Let us know if we can be of help.

A truly touching story Will, and a very thankful ending. Sometimes it takes a situation like this to make us aware of how much we really do have to be thankful for, even in the midst of a difficult situation. Somehow, I know you will emerge from your current difficulties stronger and with a renewed sense of gratitude. Best wishes my friend.

I felt sad for you while reading this, but I'm glad that you and your dog are still here to tell us this story. Good luck.

Thank you all for your compassion and support. Spark seems to be doing pretty well, a bit lethargic, but heck so am I. And I am not the one that was bounced across the pavement. When I finally get home and sort through this mess - I'll provide another update. Thank you!!!

I'm so glad you guys made it out OK!! My prayers for a speedy and complete recovery.

Glad to hear that you were not worse off Will. This is a wonderful time of year, though it can also be difficult. As Jim said, let us know if there is any way that we can help!

Nathan

Will,

Your story put me on a path toward what appeared to be a sad outcome, then...Joy!

Yes, please keep us updated.

I am so glad that you and your bud are doing well!

-PB

William,

I too was touched by your story. Some of the folks here on NPN know close I am with my dogs so I can relate. I used to live in Bergen County I know the GSP well.

Send me an email at Jack@jackgraham, let me know about yourself. I have a lot of contacts in NJ & maybe I can help on the employment front.

Give Spark a big pat on the head for me OK?

JG

Whew what a story Will. I'm so glad you and Spark can enjoy nature while you recover together. All the best to you both.

Things can only get better now, we can hope. It's tough being out of a job during Christmas, but you can look forward to January, the #1 month for new job openings. You could probably use a couple of weeks to heal up anyway. Hang in there, things will turn out OK.


Kent in SD

Oh, Will, I'm glad you told us about this. I join with everyone in hoping and praying for much better things for you in the near future. Time for you and Spark to take care of each other and heal. To experience so much happiness watching the sun and a squirrel while being nestled together with your dog... thank God you can feel it and enjoy it. When I read that, I knew you will be okay. Please keep us informed about your progress and about anything you need.

Will and Spark, Thank you for posting your message and I wish you both a rapid recovery and big improvement in your "situation". As a many-year dog lover whose best friends have always been my dogs I do have a few words to say... When we obtain a dog, in the best of all possible worlds, we will outlive that dog. As the dog ages it becomes even more precious and it is extremely difficult to let go. I always feel that each dog whose life I am privileged to experience makes me a better owner/friend for the next one. We are SUCH a fortunate species to be able to experience the unconditional devotion of such wonderful creatures as dogs and they make us better for it. At 12 years of age your time with Spark will be limited, but enjoy each moment, knowing that he is preparing you for the next one in your life! I currently have a 15 y/o dog resting her head on my foot and I dread the inevitable, but each moment that I have with her is growing ever more important.
Best wishes!

Holy cow Will...sounds like you've been through the wringer as of late. I'm happy that you and Spark are doing okay and thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. Your story is a well needed smack upside the head for me.....every moment, every damn moment counts. Keep us up to date with your progress and Spark's too.

Will, I initially thought this story was going to end in tragedy, but I'm glad to hear that the things that count the most are working out.

Like Mary has mentioned every moment does count. Always strive to make the most of the brief time we have. I often think of this same subject while out hiking or taking nature photos etc. Years seem like a long time, but in reality it is a moment. It just goes fast, and for many it is tragically made even shorter.

Glad to hear you and Spark are recovering well, and keep us updated.

Will, I am glad youand Spark are OK. What a terrible experience!!

It is often said that "Life is what happens when we are making other plans". I strongly believe this is true. I also beliee that the "Life" that changes our plans really give us an opportunity to reevaluate and make better ones.

Will:

I am so very happy that you and Spark came out of this experience okay! You have a great outlook and will surely be rewarded for your positive attitude.

Whoa, Will! What a terrible and frightening experience. I'm so glad that you and Spark came out of it OK. There's nothing like that special bond shared by dogs and their humans . Please do keep us posted and let us know if there's anything we can do to help.

Lori

I can only think that there are great actions still left for you 2 to carry out. Hoping all the best for you both.

Before the update, I want to sincerely thank you all for the support and encouragement through this difficult time. It means a whole lot to us! I truly believe that we were both spared, for reasons unknown, to continue on with this journey. I wish I could thank you all individually.

We are fine. Still a little bit sore, but all the bruises and contusions are fading. His limping has decreased and his cuts and road rash are just about healed. His tail is wagging again, his appetite is back and he is again enjoying the role as watchdog, companion and good friend. I cannot explain how grateful I am for this.

Again thank you and I wish everyone a wonderful and very merry holiday season. Peace and sweet light to you all.

Glad to hear things are much improved Will. Thanks for the update.

Happy Holidays to you and Spark

Great news, Will. Spark is adorable!

Guy

Good to hear Will! And a great shot too!

Nathan

I just read this and you had me in tears till I read that Spark survived. I'm glad he and you and are doing all right and I wish you luck in finding new transportation and new work.

- Dan.

Sweet dog. Sweet news. Thanks for the update Will. I also would like you to know that my family had a very interesting and enlightening conversation at the dinner table the other night after I mentioned your experiences. We have all been warmed by your story and duly reminded about the fragile nature of it all. Thank you.

Will,
I was sad to read your story, but happy to hear all is ending well and both of you are recovering. Spark is adorable! I wish you luck finding employment. I've been unemployed since mid-July and just this past Tuesday finally found a job and start in the New Year. I know how tough it is and even tougher for you with no wheels. My thoughts and prayers to you and Spark.