July 11, 2023|Iraq Veteran, RRW VS VAMC, Veteran Healthcare
April 2012
Imagine sleeping next to your 12 year old daughter when a seizure like convulsion brings you into a conscious state where you have no vision, only the most brilliant white you couldn’t even imagine, and no ability to take a breath.
My diaphragm stopped working and was paralyzed.
This happened to me as a disc was entering my spinal cord at C5/6 (neck). [added: the disc became embedded in my spinal cord for over 7 months before I saw a neurosurgeon]
Immediately, I jumped to my feet. No ability to take in not even the smallest of breath and zero vision other than brilliant white, a voice said, “DO NOT PANIC!”
I will never forget the voice that saved my life.
In an instant, like images flashing, I saw all the ways in which I had worked with breath in my life. I was a runner, swimmer, etc. Then, I knew. I just knew. So, I started trying to take breaths, although not successful at first. Try & try again, and that I did until I could squeeze in more and more air. The breaths began very very small. It took a lot of effort and persistence to be able to take in a full breath. I kept trying and kept trying, determined I would breathe again! And, I did!
As I finally began making progress with my diaphragm my eyesight began returning little by little.
Once my breathing was stable, I broke down in sheer terror for my life! I called my mom and sister.
To be continued….
It is rare for someone to survive when the diaphragm stops working. This is what kills most people in a spinal cord injury. I have known people with these injuries that indeed stopped breathing and died.
I was saved, and I know God would want me to share that. It has taken a long time to overcome this medical trauma, especially when it was not an isolated event, in order to share my testimony. I am here…now. I am ready…finally.
Thank you for coming along with me on this journey!
With love,
Robbyn Raquel Wallace
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