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In August of 2003, I participated in my first co-ed slow pitch game. I had played countless games of traveling fast pitch softball, so I thought a slow pitch game would be like any other softball game. While playing at third base, I was hit it the face with a line drive that barely tipped off my glove. My hometown doctor referred me to Dr. Kriet because of the seriousness of the injury. After looking at the CT scans Dr. Kriet told me that I had broken ten bones in my face and that my injuries were similar to ones that he had seen from car accidents.
I was 17 at time, and ready to start my senior year of High school. Volleyball was around the corner and so were my senior pictures. I was scared that I would never look the same again, but Dr. Kriet and his nurse Becky White took me under their wings and let me know that everything was going to be ok.
The staff was wonderful throughout my whole experience before, during, and after the five hour surgery. Dr. Kriet fixed my face like brand new! It was almost as if it had never happened. I stayed in touch with Dr. Kriet and Becky with follow up visits for the next year. The only negative thing I can remember from post surgery is finding out that I couldn’t run or lift over 20 lbs for 6 months, which meant no volleyball. However, I was back in the groove by the time basketball season came around.
I am so grateful for what Dr. Kriet and his staff did for me. At 23, I am healthy. I don’t have any complications from my accident. No one ever believes me when I say that I broke ten bones in my face because there are no visible scars to prove it! I thank God everyday for the skill of the doctors and staff I had working on me. I wouldn’t be who I am today without them.
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The University of Kansas Medical Center