Life can change in an instant. For Elizabeth, that instant came two weeks after one of the proudest moments of her life — qualifying for the 2025 Age Group Aquabike World Championships. She was in peak physical shape, enjoying life to the fullest with her husband and two dogs, balancing her love for triathlon with walking and biking holidays and working. Then — a bike accident left her with a T12 burst fracture and a spinal cord injury, setting her on a path she never anticipated. This is Elizabeth’s own story.
The Moment Everything Changed
The accident was severe. My T12 fracture was unstable and required immediate stabilization with rods and pedicle screws. For nine weeks, I remained in the care of North Bristol NHS Trust, adapting to a new reality. In those early days, the outlook was uncertain. My only glimmer of hope was the faint twitch of my quadriceps muscle. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to fuel my determination.
With the exceptional care of skilled nurses and physiotherapists, coupled with the expertise of medical device companies like Elos Medtech, my recovery began. These devices—precisely engineered to stabilize and support my spine—gave me a foundation to start rebuilding my strength. Without them, I wouldn’t be standing today.
X-ray showing Elizabeth’s spine with metalwork to fix the fracture
Small Steps, Big Progress
Coming home after those initial nine weeks was bittersweet. On one hand, I was thrilled to return to the comforts of home. On the other, I knew this marked the beginning of a long and challenging recovery. With the aid of a four-wheeled walker, I could manage short distances.
Fast forward two months, and I’ve made strides—literally. My quadriceps and hamstrings are stronger, and I can now use the walker for longer distances. The exercises prescribed by my physiotherapists, coupled with hours of dedication each day, are starting to pay off.
A Team Effort
Recovery isn’t just about physical progress. The psychological shift after an injury like mine is monumental. It’s here that I’ve been blessed with an incredible support network.
• The Professionals: The physiotherapists at North Bristol NHS Trust and later Hobbs have been unwavering in their commitment. Their knowledge and encouragement keep me focused on where I want to go.
• My Family and Friends: They’ve been my rock. From helping with daily tasks to simply being there when I needed a shoulder to lean on, their support has been invaluable.
• Innovators in Healthcare: The medical devices that stabilized my spine are more than just metal and screws—they’re a testament to human ingenuity and dedication. Companies like Elos Medtech enable stories like mine to exist, crafting the tools that bridge the gap between injury and recovery.
Before the accident Elizabeth was in peak physical condition
Looking Ahead
Every day, I remind myself that recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. I may not know what the future holds, but I’m determined to one day cross a triathlon finish line again. Whether that day is months or years away, I know it’s possible because I’ve seen what determination, support, and innovation can achieve.
To anyone facing a similar journey, I’d say this: take it one step at a time. Celebrate the small victories and surround yourself with people who believe in your potential. And never underestimate the power of collaboration—between patients, healthcare professionals, and companies like Elos Medtech—to make recovery possible.
Elizabeth’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the impact of cutting-edge medical technology. At Elos Medtech, we are honored to play a small but vital role in stories like hers. Together, we strive to empower patients and healthcare professionals with the tools they need to achieve extraordinary outcomes.
