Community Corner

Cyclist's Near-Death Experience Inspires Her to Help Others

Colleen Alexander advocates for bicycle safety measures.

The following post was written and reported by Lisa Lenkiewicz.

About this sponsorship: In honor of the 60th anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary's historic ascent of Mount Everest, Patch and Grape-Nuts are teaming up to highlight those who inspire people around them to climb their own mountains.

For many years, Colleen Kelly Alexander rode her bicycle every week for about 300 miles, including the 10-mile journey from her home in Clinton, Connecticut, to work. One fall day in 2011, as she biked home, tragedy struck--a 30-ton freight truck went through a stop sign and slammed into her, crushing her and leaving her near death. Rushed to Yale-New Haven Hospital, she “flatlined” twice. But she survived. Then she faced countless operations to repair her body parts and endured weeks of arduous physical therapy.

Less than a year later, the indomitable triathlete jogged the entire five-kilometer New Haven Road Race. Today, she cycles and runs in races with a limp.

Still recovering, Alexander, 38, has devoted her tireless energy to advocate for bicycle safety measures. She also raises funds to benefit organizations that have helped her recovery, such as the Red Cross and her local police department. 

She told Patch about her dreams of motivating others to surmount obstacles.

What's a goal you're trying to achieve right now? 

I have a lot of heroes and I hope to cross many finish lines so I can give my medals away to all of them. I’ve signed up to do a “half Iron man” in August.

What inspired you to take on this challenge?  

When I learned my pelvis had been snapped into two pieces, and learned of the severe damage to my lower body including my muscles, joints and skeletal system, I thought, "I have a second chance to not only accomplish great things, despite my limp and lack of abilities, but I can also be a light to others to show that anything is possible." To achieve this goal, I am focusing on my faith in God who has gotten me this far and the countless heroes who gave their blood donations so that my heart could beat again. I am also now part of Achilles International which works with athletes with disabilities and helps them achieve their goals.

Do you think you have succeeded?

Despite horrific odds battling pain, panic, depression, and losses, I have been able to run, bike and swim again. Most importantly, I can advocate for things I am passionate about. I come to life when I can help create change in this world. 

About this column: We’re dedicating the months of April and May to telling the stories of people locally and statewide who have overcome the impossible, affecting positive change in their own lives, or in communities. Sponsored by Grape-Nuts.  


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