July 18, 1981 was the day that changed my life. I remember two things, vaguely about that day. The first was a softball game- the second was swimming. When I talked with my friend who was with me, he told me my memory was accurate.
1981 was supposed to be the best year, so far of a very successful life. I had just graduated as an honor student with academic scholarships to two very good colleges. I was set.
I started to become aware again perhaps in November. I had no idea of where I was, and why I was there. I was in a room with three other guys- I didn't know why. There were various nurses helping me. Eventually I became more aware. About the 10th of December I left, walking with a cane. I realized by that time why.
I still needed therapy at home, until my dad suggested I didn't need a cane. My mother helped me start college spring quarter. After four quarters at the CC in Fergus Falls, I moved on to a four year college, Moorhead State. That college was much tougher, and my first year GPA was under 2. I lived on campus, but I didn't feel like I was like the others. That is one of the not understood aspects of suffering from a traumatic brain injury: my mind reverted back to a much younger age. That was a difficulty I went through. I acted immaturely, which led to people (girls) staying away from me. What a lousy time for this situation to happen.
I persevered, and eventually overcome that trouble. My schoolwork improved, to the fact of my being published in 'Red Weather', Moorhead States literary publication.
.
I transferred again. This time to Southwest State, a college which claimed to be very helpful for people with a disability. I didn't find that to be true, however. I thought I was doing good, until I was arrested at the start of Winter quarter, and brought to the station for questioning.
I didn't know why I was at the station. 45 minutes later they finally accused me of striking a coed. I was stunned. I had no idea why this female would claim that. She even got those cops to come to Willmar, which was 70 miles way to throw me in jail in Marshall.The trial took place in June. It lasted two days. The jury deliberated for 1/2 an hour before they acquitted me.
I wonder what the cost of all that was?
