Skater Down

Yesterday I thought about not going to practice again, after all, they were just taking pictures. I felt like I didn't belong in any of the pictures. Do I go with the fresh meat? Do I go with the NSO? Do I go anywhere? Well, long story short I went.

As soon as I walked in I hear this wailing. Everyone went down on one knee and I saw her. One of my favorite's on the ground just screaming. I've never heard someone screaming so loudly. I walked into the bathroom (she was already being tended too) and a girl right behind me rushing in saying that a girl was down and requesting a vet skater.

Not to long after that the ambulance was there, taking her away. A girl rushed into the bathroom feeling sick because her anxiety spiked.

It's hard. It's easy to really say that roller derby is a complete mind f*ck. A group of you were all just working on the same thing, you could've been feeling like you were finally getting it and then BAM. Out of no where someone is on the ground hurt...extremely hurt from something you were just doing.

I was lucky. I just had a sprain. It's hard enough wanting to even work out. I want to get on skates, but knowing that I'll have to do knee-taps which is how I got hurt...it's scary. Everyone who has gotten hurt has been there. Getting back up isn't easy, but it's what one has to do.

I was watching tv today and there was a quote, one that I've heard before and every time it makes me think. "Everyone falls down, but only a true hero gets back up."

It is such a strong statement and I think it's one that can carry us in whatever we do. Maybe you don't see yourself as a hero, but if you keep getting back up and you keep trying one day you'll go somewhere and you never know who you will inspire on your way.


As for the skater down? She has a total of five fractures. Three in her ankle and two in her leg. She will need surgery and at least 8-12 wees of being off that ankle/leg. The plus side is watching the whole team (fresh meats and vets) come together and help her and her family. People have already started volunteering to get her car home, take her food, babysit for her...whatever she needs. That's the meaning of roller derby.

As for me? I came home last night laughing, happy! I remember why I was so excited about joining in the first place. It wasn't to get in shape, (even though you will....you will gain weight, but it will be all mussel!) it wasn't to say I was doing it. It was to do something with my sister, to push myself into something new, and to start something where everyone has your back.
 Surrounding yourself by the best people can only help you in being the best you.