Why do we wear helmets?

International Helmet Awareness Day is on August 18–19 & I want to tell you how my helmet saved my life. I keep this battered helmet for posterity sake.

Helmets are crucial for rider protection when handling horses. I wear a helmet because I had an extremely close call in 2016. I was riding a horse who was typically very laid back. I am not exactly sure if he spooked or what (because I don't remember). As I flew through the air from my unscheduled dismount, he kicked out and kicked my helmet. I was in and out for about 20 minutes and went to the hospital shortly after. I spent over a year recovering but overall am extremely lucky.