Last Week’s Emergency, Lessons Learned & Critical Gear

NOTE: YES, Z is ok.
He is still recovering and needs some time before being back at full speed. I’m sharing the critical gear that saved his life in hopes it saves someone else.

The Crash and the Aftermath: A Lesson in Preparedness

I met Z many years ago when we were both training and racing triathlons. If you’ve ever trained for a long-distance triathlon, you know it’s like having a second full-time job. Hundreds of miles a week, on foot and by bike, often tired and on shared-use roads. In addition to triathlons, I’ve spent years rock-climbing, skydiving, remote backpacking, mountain-climbing, and practicing full-contact martial arts. Z, too, has decades of experience on mountain, road, triathlon and gravel bikes. He rides both recreationally and competitively on some of the toughest terrains in the world. Despite our familiarity with risk and adventure, things can still go wrong in an instant.

The Crash

A week ago, I had just finished my workout and was on the phone with my sister—afternoon for me on Lesvos, and before dawn for her in California. My phone beeped with a text that immediately shifted my world: an emergency crash detection text alert from Z’s Garmin bike computer.

Z has been training non-stop for the Cape Epic 2025 in South Africa, riding on the stunning trails of Lesvos, Greece. These trails wind through forests, along fire and farm roads, offering sweeping views of the Aegean Sea, hidden churches, and ancient ruins tucked into olive groves on steep hillsides. While beautiful, this terrain is rugged and often very isolated.

Emergency Response

I immediately called Z to see if the alert was a mistake, but when he answered, I knew it was serious. Fortunately, he was conscious, but the situation didn’t sound good. I grabbed my keys and wallet and ran. Living in a small, seaside village means no car access at our house—so I sprinted down countless steps and through cobblestone streets, all while trying to get my phone to connect to anyone who could help.

In emergencies, protocols vary greatly depending on the country. Plomari has a health center, but no full hospital. I called one of the most reliable people I know here—Nick, who owns Oceanis Car Rentals. I told him what happened, hoping he could help me arrange an ambulance or get me a car. Nick went above and beyond—he called the ambulance and came to pick me up in the village square.

While we’re learning Greek, medical emergencies go beyond our limited vocabulary. Having someone fluent to call the ambulance and navigate the village roads was a literal lifesaver. I wasn’t sure if Z would remain conscious or how extensive his injuries were. Driving through narrow cobblestone streets here is difficult at the best of times, and the road to Megalachori, where Z had crashed, is steep with endless switchbacks.

Rescue and Relief

On the way, a Danish family who had seen Z and his bike called to let me know they were with him, offering reassurance that he was conscious and they would stay with him until we arrived. Their kindness, interrupting their holiday to help, meant everything to us. When I finally reached Z, I was beyond grateful—he was alive, conscious, and coherent. His helmet showed the damage: he had hit head-first, then his shoulder, before rolling across his back and sliding on his knee and elbow.

Medical

The local medical center wasn’t equipped to do the necessary scans, so we had to head to the main hospital in Mytilini. The ambulance ride—from a dirt road to narrow village streets, cobblestones, and potholes—was rough for both Z on the stretcher and me trying not to get carsick while keeping Z focused and coherent. After hours in the hospital, Z was x-rayed, CT-scanned, and assessed by a doctor and neurosurgeon. Despite crashing head-first at high speed, Z left the hospital with a fractured T-10 vertebra, lung contusions, deep bruises, and plenty of scrapes. But the most important thing? He is alive.

Back Home and Recovery

Getting Z home was another challenge. We can’t drive to our house, and he couldn’t ride a scooter, so we had to take a slow, painful walk up the hills and steps to our home. Recovery will take time, but Z’s condition is improving day by day. We are lucky to be surrounded by a caring community in Plomari. Friends like Mary & Roberto offered to drive me to Mytilini for supplies, our friend (and pharmacist) Andreas checked in, and John & Despina from the pet supply store helped track down medical supplies and bring water up. And of course, Nick at Oceanis was a lifesaver from the very beginning. Our gratitude is beyond words.

Critical Gear That Saved His Life

Z’s helmet, equipped with MIPS technology, was the key to his survival. Without it, this crash could have had a much worse outcome. Here’s the gear that made all the difference:

• Oakley ARO5 Helmet (with MIPS technology): The helmet absorbed the initial impact and protected Z’s head.

• Garmin Bike Computer + Incident Detection (Garmin 840, 540 or other): This device sent the crash alert and GPS coordinates to me, allowing us to get help quickly.

• Oakley Men’s Sutro Sunglasses: Shatter-proof and still in great shape after the crash.

• Alé Bike Kit: The high-quality fabric prevented more severe skin damage.

• Troy Lee Designs Bike Gloves Despite the rough fall, Z’s hands were unscathed.

Other Important Safety Gear:

• Garmin Rearview Radar / Tail Light

  • This is essential for road cycling. The tail light is critical, but the radar’s ability to detect cars behind you without turning around is a huge safety win. We never ride without it!

• Garmin inReach

  • I always take this on hikes, drives, or cycling routes with poor service. It ensures you have a communication line in remote areas.

• First Aid Kit

  • A small first aid kit is a must. Always restock after use to stay prepared.

• Emergency Bag at Home

  • I had Z's passport in 1Password, but we could’ve used jackets, snacks, and flip-flops for the hospital. We’re assembling a grab-and-go bag with essentials, plus a shared document for emergency contacts, medical history, and passport info.

• Always Let Someone Know Where You Are

  • Always let someone know your plans and ETA when adventuring. Apps like Strava are great for live tracking your location.

Please do not be cheap with life-saving gear.
Your safety is non-negotiable.

The Lessons Learned

This experience taught us crucial lessons about adventure and safety in remote areas. If you love outdoor activities, especially in isolated areas, make sure you consider these factors:

• Is there consistent cell phone coverage where you’re going?

• How far away is the nearest hospital with full care?

• Do you have the proper gear to handle emergencies?

• Always let someone know where you are and when you expect to return.

Z’s helmet and bike computer were life-saving. Without them, the outcome could have been drastically different. If you or a loved one participates in cycling, make sure you invest in high-quality gear. Yes, it’s expensive, but nothing is more valuable than your life.

And Now, We Rest

This has been a lot to process. We know we’ve chosen a life that comes with risks, but we also know it’s our responsibility to mitigate those risks. For now, we’re focusing on healing—both physically for Z, and mentally for me. We’ll take things slow, focus on recovery, and express gratitude for the friends, family, and equipment that saved Z’s life.

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