offer our fellow athlete some kind words

Recently, I heard about a triathlete in Northern Cal who was struck by a car and injured very badly. Her name is Monique Petrov and she was hit last Wednesday while out on a training ride. She was gearing up for the Ironman in Kona and this was likely her last long ride beforehand. From what was written, she was so looking forward to competing.

photo from her blog

According to news reports, the motorist who struck her had the sun in his eyes and just didn't see her. If true, this tragic accident was just that...an accident. Regardless, her life at present has been altered quite significantly. She is in ICU with broken bones - arm, femur, knee (shattered) and multiple vertabrae fractures. Her friends and family have surrounded her in loving support, and given her amazing athletic abilities and strength, she will likely (and hopefully) fully recover.

I don't know Monique, but she and I are the same age. Unlike her, I'm not an amazing athlete. But I am a passionate cyclist and what happened to her is what I fear the most for myself and my friends who ride (and Dad, of course!). Any of us could be hit at anytime. It scares the hell out of me but not enough for me to give up a sport I love so much.

Even though I've never met Monique, I'm following her recovery on her blog. I'm writing about her here to suggest (encourage) any of you who can to please donate to her recovery. I can only imagine the medical bills. To donate, please send a check to:

Danielle Cane, 28 Westwood Dr. San Rafael, Ca. 94901.
Make checks payable to: Monique Petrov Donation Account.

Also, she has a fan page on Facebook (Monique Petrov) where supportive comments are being posted. The more she hears positive affirmations, the better, so if you can swing by to offer our fellow athlete some kind words, please do.