On July 23, what was meant to be a peaceful solo hike in the Little Grand Canyon (Shawnee National Forest) turned into a nightmare. I unknowingly followed an unmarked social trail that rescue teams later told me is a known danger spot. The ground gave way under my foot, and I fell 20 feet into a ravine, shattering my elbow.
It took nearly 5 hours from my fall to arriving at the hospital. I’ve since had reconstructive surgery and am facing a long recovery, unable to drive or manage daily life on my own. The costs are overwhelming—medical bills, last-minute travel to rearrange care for my kids, and ongoing therapy.
This accident was preventable. Even the surgeon in the ER knew people who’d fallen in the same spot—some airlifted out and hospitalized for months. Yet there’s still no warning sign. While I work to advocate for safety changes, I also need help to cover the financial impact on my family.
Your donation will go directly toward:
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Medical bills and copays
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Physical therapy and follow-up care
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Childcare and household support during recovery
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Travel costs related to my care and my kids’ return home
If you can, please give and share this story to both lighten this financial burden and help prevent the next person from going through the same thing. You can read my full account of the accident here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19F25kcNP7/
Contact the Shawnee National Forest—either by phone at (618) 253-7114, or via their official contact form here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r09/shawnee/contact-us asking them to install signage at the Little Grand Canyon hazard.
My shattered elbow
All my new hardware
