by Laura Seil Ruszczyk

Created on: July 08, 2009   Last Updated: July 12, 2009

My Bell helmet hangs from a hook in the garage. It is gathering dust, which is actually a good thing, since it is no longer operational. The helmet I use today is attached to the handlebars of my 18-speed Specialized bicycle. It is adorned with stickers from a yearly charity ride I complete.

The dusty Bell helmet is a reminder of how important this equipment is to a rider, no matter what experience level one possesses. I am a recreational biker who enjoys riding anywhere from 5-15 miles each time I go out. My pre-ride routine includes putting on a t-shirt, biking shorts and shoes, grabbing a drink and heading to my bike. The next step is to strap on my bike helmet, put on gloves and head for the road. I love the freedom that biking allows and never know where or how long I will ride. But one thing I do know is that I will always wear a helmet, even if I am just going around my neighborhood to lasso my 14-year-old son.

So why I am committed to wearing a helmet _ the one thing I wasn't required to do while growing up? The answer is simple; the helmet that hangs in my garage is cracked at its center, where my forehead should be. Here is why there is a crack. One windy November 2001 day in the northeast, the temperatures were above normal so I took my bike for a spin. Unfortunately, the wind was fierce and I chose to put my head down to avoid the force. I was biking on a village street, probably 10 miles per hour or so, when I heard an amazing, horrible sound. Immediately, I flew over my handlebars, bounced on the road and flopped.

Wow, I had hit a parked car. Pretty pathetic, I know, but I am sure I am not the only person to do this. After inspecting my broken helmet, ripped shirt and cuts on my stomach and leg, I found someone who kindly let me use their telephone to call a friend for help. My bike was mangled a bit, my helmet inoperable, and I was a bit agitated and in pain. (I now carry a cell phone on all my rides). Later that day, after finding someone to watch my kids, I went to the local emergency room where the doctor diagnosed leg contusions. My head was never scanned, but I was shaky and cold and in retrospect I wonder if I may have had a mild concussion.

I always wore my helmet before this accident and now have proof as to why it is so imperative. It really is not a big deal to strap on the helmet. Sure my hair might get extra sweaty and my head itchy at times, but who cares about that when the helmet is protected the most important part of my body _ my brain.

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