Trying to re-gain my confidence after a fall....

[Allyt]

Last Wednesday, whilst out for a run, (what else?!), misfortune befell me, and then I befell. I was running along, minding my own business and then a small dog ran out form a side street, right under my feet and tripped me up. I was just about to cross said side street and was close to the kerb, so not only did I cut and bruise my knees on the pavement, but my shins made painfull contact with the kerb itself. Needless to say I was quite shaken up. The dog's owner came out, (from where?), shouted at the dog, grabbed hold of it by the scruff of it's neck and went off...(to where?). I am quite convinced that if I hadn't have tripped over the dog, it would've ran out onto the busy road. The owner didn't even ask how I was. I sat on the kerb, trying to compose myself, checking for injuries, got up and then decided to run on for a little bit. As I got up and car drove into the side-road - I thought they were going to ask for directions, but, in fact, the lady driver asked if I was OK, offered me a lift, first aid and water - how very kind considering the actions of the dog owner! I have run a few times since then, but I am not running so far in my allotted time. I think I've lost my confidence, especially when I cross that little side-road when I literally feel my stomach turning. I hope I find my confidence again soon, I miss it.

[TJFlute]

So sorry to hear about your fall I simply don't understand why dog owners don't keep their dogs on a lead. How kind of the lady driver!

I know that you can put this behind you. It might take a few more runs, but just keep at it. Don't worry about how far you're running at the moment; you just need time and we're here to cheer you on

[Allyt Graduate in reply to TJFlute]

Thank you so much for your kind words TJFlute - I'm feeling better already!

[RhonaL]

As a dog owner I am sorry that they did not come back to check how you were. It can be difficult with dogs - if the owner had to scruff it, it sounds like the dog's collar came off. They may have just wanted to get the dog to safety quickly. Don't let it dent your confidence the same problem could have happened if you were strolling around and your 'collision' may have saved that little dog a lot of pain.

I think that if you are running you are going to fall occasionally - I know the first time it happened to me it was a shock. But the plus side is your muscles are stronger and probably your bones as well so injuries are less likely. May be you should stop your stomach churning by saying to yourself when you pass the side road that you fell but you were fine and you probably stopped a nasty accident. Turn it into a positive.

[Allyt Graduate in reply to RhonaL]

Thank you Rhonal. As you say, I am quite convinced that if the collision hadn't have happened that little dog would've certainly had run into the busy road causing not only injury to the dog, but also, potentially causing a nasty RTA...so, putting it that way I consider myself to be a blooming hero - you'll be hearing about me in the Queen's new year honours list! I must say, I do feel much better now - I wish I hadn't left it so long to share this experience!