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Dad from Dalton | Signed on: Sun 04 Apr 2010 12:42:12 PM MST Hi Saul, The last 4 years have been one heck of a roller coaster ride. You have made it sad, exciting, humerous, and all together wonderful. I love you. Dad PS: I can't wait to see what you do with the next 4 years. Comment: I LOVE YOU 2. -SAUL |
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Melissa from Philadelphia, PA | Signed on: Thu 01 Apr 2010 07:48:41 PM MST Hello, Saul! I just heard you speak this evening at the University of Sciences occupational therapy night. I was there with Theraplay, Inc to promote our facility. Hearing your speech was one of the highlights of my night! It was truly inspirational and a great way to kick off OT month for me! Thanks!  Comment: Melissa I had a great time. I am honored to have been a part. Thank you, -Saul |
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Anna Metcalf from USA | Signed on: Wed 24 Mar 2010 06:29:00 PM MST Saul, Wow...way to be amazing! I'm reading your book right now, and if you don't have a chance to respond. I just thought I'd let you know my brother fell off a roof and went into a coma and had a serious head injury. My mother is a PT and helps people with head injuries so it was really hard to go through. I love your story and hope your journey to win the Tour De France is amazing. My family is obbsesed so we'll be watching for you! Thank you. Comment: Thank you Anna for the kind words. I am happy to hear that you like my book. Take care, -Saul |
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Rob from New York | Signed on: Mon 08 Mar 2010 08:36:45 AM MST Hi Saul, While on a training ride yesterday with some triathletes I know, one of them asked me if I knew of you and had read your book. Surprised, as was I, that I had not. In July of 06 I was in a motorcycle accident. Broke 17 bones. 12 ribs. Broke my back in 4 places, and my neck. Bike pinned me and dragged me down the road. Third degree burns down one side of my body. Punctured and collapsed lung. Lacerated liver. Damage to retina in one eye, and TBI. Had 4 subdural hematomas. Left leg and right arm paralyzed. Mine weren't bad enough to require surgery though. Lots of time in rehab hospital and years of PT. Been a long road. Did my first bike race again (relay leg of a Tri) 2 years ago. I'm definitely going to read your book. take care, Rob Comment: You have an amazing story thank you for sharing it. Fight to the finish!!! -Saul |
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Anthony from Sacramento CA | Signed on: Thu 04 Feb 2010 04:48:35 PM MST Thank you for the work you are doing with TBI awareness! My father fell off a ladder 2 years ago and sufferred a traumatic brain injury and needless to say our lives have changed ever since. Its been a long road to recovery and continues to get better every day! Once again keep up the good work! |
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Christie from Greer, SC | Signed on: Mon 11 Jan 2010 04:36:32 AM MST Saul, It was nice to have met you on Saturday. I hope your book signing went well. We wish you all the best. Christie & Bill |
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Micheala Whitworth from Dalton GA | Signed on: Thu 07 Jan 2010 10:55:18 AM MST Saul I just found info on the marathon. Micheala |
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Micheala Whitworth from Dalton, GA | Signed on: Thu 07 Jan 2010 10:53:09 AM MST Hey Saul, Hope you had a nice birthday and all your birthday wishes come true! Quick Question do you have info or a page on the Team Raisin for the ATL Marathon/Half? Text it to me if you have time. Thanks. Micheala |
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chris from vermont | Signed on: Wed 06 Jan 2010 05:34:41 PM MST Saul, Kevin Pearce, one the top international competitive snowboarders and a local Vermonter, had a severe TBI last week during a training run. He is in a hospital in Utah. Can you offer any help to him and his family as (hopefully) he emerges from the drug-induced coma? As one world-class athlete to another, I imagine you have resources that might be invaluable to them. Thank you. |
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Kevin Padgett from San Jose, CA | Signed on: Wed 06 Jan 2010 03:16:57 PM MST Hey Saul, I'm working for LOOK Cycle USA now! First day I walked in to the office and saw your photo on the wall, Hey, I know that guy! Hope the New Year is treating you well. Cheers, KP |
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Saul Anthony I. Siba from Project 8, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines | Signed on: Fri 01 Jan 2010 12:18:42 PM MST Hi Saul! I'm reading your book, "Tour de Life: From Coma to Competition". Your story is very cool, moving and motivational. Both of us almost had the same experiences during elementary and high school. I'm also a cyclist and will try joining more duathlons on 2010. I graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with a degree of BS Sports Science. Hope to speak or meet you someday! More power and God bless! PS: We both have the same name! Cool! Saul [email protected] |
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Pat and Ted Hoesel from nextdoor condo on Sanibel | Signed on: Fri 01 Jan 2010 10:32:19 AM MST Saul we knew you were special before we read about you online! Enjoy your stay... |
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Joe Jackson from Chatsworth, GA | Signed on: Mon 07 Dec 2009 08:37:05 PM MST Hello Saul! Just wanted to say it was so great to see you, Yvonne, and Jim recently. I have just started reading your book and cannot put it down. After talking with you, I knew you were an amazing person, but after reading half the book, I'm just blown away. You are an incredible individual and so are your parents. I'm proud to call you a friend. I wish you continued success and hope to see you guys soon. Love to all, Joe Jackson |
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MARY HELEN FORSHEE from ROCKY FACE, GA | Signed on: Sat 05 Dec 2009 12:29:56 PM MST Hey Saul, How are you? we are doing well We have been in St. Augustine Fla for about a month. we are coming home tomorrow. Sounds like it is cold & snowing in Rocky Face. It will be rough after 70's & 80's here. Hope you are doing well. love Mary Helen & PAUL |
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Brian from Colorado | Signed on: Thu 08 Oct 2009 06:39:11 PM MST Saul it was a pleasure to meet you in Colorado this summer on one of the Rasin Hope rides, this one benifited Craig Hospital which also rehabs spinal and TBI patients. I was a bike Medic during this event, and you requested that I post a blog after I finished your book which took me through quite a journey. Being in health care it was very unique and insitfull to see things from the patents eyes, and will utlimutley make me better at my job and more complete as a human. Thanks for sharing your story as well as your families, it will help those with difficulties in their own lives. God bless, Brian PS-your right, your book is better than Lance's!
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Tim Arnold from Indianapolis | Signed on: Mon 05 Oct 2009 08:47:51 AM MST Hi Saul .... On August 8th I was in a race and went down .. i don\'t remember any of it other than waking up 2 days later in the hospital, even after that my memory is fuzzy. The whole time I didn\'t remember very much... however i remembered you as I had read your book a year ago. They tell me it would be really bad to race and wreck again .... so on to tri;s ..... lake placid 2011 ... I\'m slowly back to normal, swimming, trainer, and running...... but severe brain injury recovery is scary to say the least, My body is perfect, but elsewhere It\'s taking some time. Thank you your an inspiration ... Tim [email protected] |
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Jimmy Guardino from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Signed on: Wed 16 Sep 2009 07:55:07 PM MST Hey Saul my name is Jimmy Guardino. I am 22 and I race for a team out of the Philadelphia area. About 7 weeks ago I was involved in a crash in a race just outside Philly. It was the final lap of a crit and one minute I’m in my sprint and the next I’m waking up to tubes being pulled out of my throat. I don’t have any memory of my crash, but my coach says I touched wheels with someone and flipped over landing straight on my head. When the paramedics arrived I had already gone into a seizure and had to be airlifted to a hospital in Philly where I went in to a coma for 2 days. I suffered a concussion, six facial fractures, fractured temporal lobe, a brain hematoma, and epidural bleed. The doctors had told my parents they would probably have to do brain surgery to relieve the pressure, but miraculously the bleeding subdued before it reached the point where they would need to operate. My parents were also told that I may have permanent memory loss and or loss of motor skills because of the damage. Somehow though, when I woke up I did not appear to have lost anything, except my memory of what had brought me into the hospital. Now almost two months later the doctors are astonished with my progress because I have managed to recover close to 100% minus just some lapses in my short term memory. I must say though, in those first few weeks I felt so alone as my teammates and fellow cyclists in the community felt so bad for me and said that I had been subject to some horribly bad luck. It was not until a friend of mine who races for Philadelphia Cyclismo told me about you and your story. You motivated me so much. Seeing the way you fought to regain your normal life back and amaze your doctors with your progress helped me get through those tough days and nights when the pain and confusion got to me the most. You’re a hero to me Saul and your strength and determination have inspired me in my quest to get back on the bike and overcome what many said I would never be able to do again. This was only my first year of racing in which I was able to win 2 races, and as you know crossing the line first is one of the most amazing feelings in the world. Before I heard about you I felt like this was it and maybe I shouldn’t race anymore but now more than ever I am determined to make my way back into the sport. I just want to say thank you for sharing your story. My accident’s resemblance to yours and knowing that you triumphed over much more difficult circumstances has kept the fight going inside me. I live and attend college in Philadelphia– if you are ever in the city for a ride, run, signing, whatever, please get in touch with me somehow cause I would love to meet you someday and thank you in person for sharing your story and being my motivation to overcome my injuries. Jimmy [email protected] |
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braxston lewis from spokane washington | Signed on: Tue 01 Sep 2009 05:31:40 PM MST whattup saul, hey my name is braxston, its been about five months since my climbing accident. Im not going to type my life story and what happened but i was recently given an article about you (to make me feel normal i guess)the article was called "more than a come back" from triathletemagcom january edition,any ways my jaw dropped while reading that, it feels crazy to think that other people have gone through what im experiencing right now!!!!! I broke my back (3spots)severe brain surgery broke all my ribs and ripped my liver in half like your family, mine was told for 3 weeks during my 45 day comma that I was not going to make it.. doctors dont believe its me when I see them. ive been told by my doctors that they have never seen a comeback like mine..its way cool to know Im not alone in this when I say alone I mean at least 3 times a day i cant communicate with people like I used to--its really frustrating,but all those things i read about you (except the bicycle part or triathalons..by the way great job on that) i can relate right now this very minute WEIRD Im 26 married and have 3 boys, people told my wife about the high divorce rate with brain trauma patients and informed her what I was going to be like but she is the most dedicated woman I have ever met.the only other human that acknowledges and understands my personality changes. im very lucky to have that..well i let you go I just wanted you to know that your story is helping my recovery a little bit more understandable..I returned to work yesterday as a landscaper.. doctor.pts,wife,family and friends are mad at me for it I dont care if they think its too soon. I need to keep my sanity somehow, you know?as far as rock climbing, I want to no body understands why?anyone who is not wairing my shoes dont have any idea how i feel physically or mentaly anyways i forget what I was going to say so stay up man, your a hero in my eyes..later Comment: BRAXSTON, THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR STORY. I KNOW THAT YOU ARE A INSPIRATION TO MANY. BUCKLE IN AND HOLD BECAUSE THAT ROLLER COASTER YOU'RE ON WILL SMOOTH OUT AND GET BETTER. CONTINUE TO GROW STRENGTH OFF YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY. TAKE CARE AND KEEP IN TOUCH. NEVER HESITATE TO CONTACT ME IF EVER YOU NEED TALK. -SAUL [email protected] "There are blue skies ahead".
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Tom Clelland from Dalton GA | Signed on: Sun 23 Aug 2009 03:43:31 AM MST Hi Saul, I'm Tom Clelland. My son,Lane went to Dalton schools with you through 8th grade. He sustained a serious brain injury a month ago and spent ten days at Erlanger and two weeks at Siskin in Chattanooga. He will start outpatient therapy this week. He doesn't remember his accident and a lot of other things, but is making progress. I think it would give him a boost if you had time to call or email him. His email is [email protected] and his phone is 706-529-1989. He is a personal trainer at Bradley Wellness Center, but is on leave . He also completed his first triathlon last year. Thanks for your time. Comment: I WILL GIVE HIM A CALL TODAY. THANK YOU FOR TELLING ME ABOUT LANE. MAYBE WE CAN GRAB A BITE TO EAT TOGETHER THIS WEEK. TAKE CARE. -SAUL |
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Mike Weiss from Viera FL | Signed on: Mon 17 Aug 2009 08:05:04 PM MST Saul, Mike Weiss here, I bought the tri bars from you about two weeks ago. For some reason every email I try to send gets bounced back to me. I wanted to send you pictures of the bars mounted (finally!). I just did the first ride on the new setup, man is it fast! Hope you're doing great, I would love to re-connect. Take care! Mike |
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Alberto from Little Elm TX | Signed on: Fri 14 Aug 2009 11:05:23 AM MST I'm so sorry to hear that you've cancelled the Raisin Hope Ride this year, it really broke my heart. I wish thier was something the we could do. I would love to ride it next year. I'm really looking forward to buyin a jersey and reading your book too!! Your an awesome inspiration to all of us!!! I can't wait to meet you! Stay cool! Do you ever plan on being Texas? |
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Fahim Rahim from Pocatello, ID | Signed on: Mon 10 Aug 2009 12:58:27 PM MST I went to buy Lance`s book at a book store this week and came out of the store with your book. Very inspiring. I must say being a doctor, a cyclist and a father and knowing what I know about medicine, it is a very inspiring story for all of us. I plan to join this years Raisin Hope ride in dalton, See you there. |
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Brian Duerr from Hamilton, NJ | Signed on: Sat 25 Jul 2009 04:49:08 PM MST Saul, It was great to meet you today at Cadence Bicycle Shop in Philly. You are a very talented and motivational young man. My wife and I wish you all the best. You have come a long way since 2007 and things can only get better. Keep Raisin Hell !!!
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Randall Steketee from NYC | Signed on: Sun 19 Jul 2009 07:36:50 AM MST Hey Saul, It was great riding with you yesterday! You really are a motivational and inspirational Force! and besides all of that, a real cool dude. I hope to ride with you again soon and keep up the good work. All the best to you and your organization. Your friend, Randy |
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Mary (Profeta) Lopez from Gilbert, AZ | Signed on: Tue 07 Jul 2009 10:36:03 PM MST Saul, Randy Profeta is my Brother. Both, he and you, are an inspiration to us all. Im usually the last to find out what inspires Randy... Saul Raisin (Hope) is apparently it. ....Im awfully glad he turned me on to Raisin Hope. |
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David Demery from Brandon Florida | Signed on: Sat 27 Jun 2009 02:55:33 PM MST Saul I just signed up for the Raisin Hope ride and I am going to do the 6 miles. Look forward to riding the bike with you. Later Dave |
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Lisa Nadlicki from Traverse City, Michigan | Signed on: Sat 20 Jun 2009 03:50:21 PM MST Saul, I want you to know how much I admire what you are doing. My son is a brain cancer survivor at the age of 6 and my brother, Brandon Inglehart, whom I believe you have met or talked to on the phone, suffered a tramatic brain injury two years ago and is lucky to be alive. Today I watched him compete and finish the M22 challenge in Leelanau county and he wore a "Raisin Hope" jersey and is working to spread the word about your foundation. I believe you are a true inspiration to him and I thank you for that! I to want to do what I can to spread the word about your foundation. Thank you!! Lisa Nadlicki (big sister to Brandon Inglehart) |
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Alexis from France | Signed on: Sat 13 Jun 2009 05:48:40 AM MST Salut Saul, je voulais te témoigner de mon profond respect. J'ai eu l'occasion de faire ta connaissance lors de la Polynormande 2005. Je n'avais que 13 ans à cette époque mais déja j'étais impressionné par ta classe et ton talent. J'ai depuis intégré un sport-études cyclisme, en France, où j'habite, ce qui me permet de concilier vélo et études. A chacune de mes sorties je pense à toi, à ton accident et cela me fait peur. Pas une fois je n'ai été roulé sans mon casque (ce qui m'as d'ailleurs sauvé la vie lors du Championnat de Normandie minimes, ayant heurté une barrière de sécurité de pleine face à 60 km/h). Tu as gagné ton combat contre la mort, à cela il y a plus de mérite que de gagner n'importe quelle course de cyclisme. Respect à cela. P.S: A quand la traduction de ton livre "Tour de life" en français? Alexis Fournier [email protected] |
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Sandy Marton from New Smyrna Beach, Fl. | Signed on: Wed 03 Jun 2009 06:23:24 AM MST Saul, I had a hypoxic brain injury/mini stroke almost 2 years ago.I also had to have 5 surgeries because of the seizures and cardiac arrest complicatons. I was training for triatholons at the time of the injury. I can ride my bike and can now swim. My problem is that I could not have rehab because I lost my job because of the injury. I've done everything on my own. I have been steadily improving but can not run or walk for long periods because of my gait problems.I was wondering if you or anyone has any suggestions for training tips. Comment: MY GATE USE TO BE HORRIBLE ALSO. YOU HAVE TO FIGHT IT AND NEVER GIVE UP. I ALWAYS SAY TAKE THE GIFTS YOU ARE GIVEN AND USE THEM TO THE MAX. DO NOT GIVE UP AND CONTINUE TO PUSH YOUR SELF TO THE LIMITS. -SAUL |
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Ed Toppi from Fallston, MD | Signed on: Sun 31 May 2009 04:03:03 PM MST Saul, It was an honor and a pleasure to meet you today at the Crystal Ride as part of the Air Force Cycling Classic. I'm the guy that lent you the arm warmers. Hope they helped and thanks for putting back on my car. You are an inspiration. Keep it up. Ed Toppi [email protected] |
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