He Broke 20 Bones In A Horrific Skydiving Accident...Now He's Doing Triathlons

Jason Dennen, a 48-year-old financial services operations manager, had no idea he was about to face a terrifying near death experience.

Jason had been training to skydive solo, and his third jump out of the airplane ended in disaster.

A sudden gust of wind caused him to lose control and crash into a cattle fence and an airplane hangar, resulting in over 20 broken bones and severe internal injuries.

His doctors told him that he might never be able to move, walk, or run like a normal person ever again. But Jason had other plans.

After The Accident

Jason’s skydiving accident left him hospitalized for 14 weeks and in rehabilitation for almost a year, but Jason defied medical predictions.

Despite being told he might never do anything athletic again, he has made a full recovery and successfully completed several triathlons. He recounts his journey in his book, "8 Days Till Sunrise".

Jason's path to recovery was arduous. He spent eight days in a coma, underwent numerous surgeries, and battled mental health challenges.

Told he would leave the hospital in a wheelchair, he defied odds by walking out on crutches. This marked the beginning of his remarkable comeback.

Determined to prove his doctors wrong completely, Jason then set his sights on participating in a triathlon. Starting from scratch, he gradually rebuilt his fitness through swimming, cycling, and running.

A Very Happy Anniversary

On the first anniversary of his accident, Jason competed in his first triathlon. This achievement was more than a physical feat; it was a symbol of his incredible journey from a hospital bed to the triathlon finish line.

And now today, Jason races in triathlons pretty often.

But it wasn’t easy. It took Jason 11 months of rehabilitation to get back on his feet, demonstrating how determined he was in both mind and spirit to make a full recovery and get back to what he loves doing the most.

Can A Positive Mental State Actually Help You Heal Faster?

Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is a fancy medical term describing the relationship between a person's psyche, nervous system, and immune system, revealing how mental states can actually influence physical health.

Research in this field suggests that a positive mental attitude can enhance the immune response, which is crucial in healing and fighting infections. This is particularly relevant for patients recovering from surgeries or those with compromised immune systems.

PNI research has also shown that your mindset can affect the neuroendocrine system, which involves hormones and is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the body.

Stress and negative emotions can actually disrupt hormonal balance, adversely affecting processes like metabolism, tissue repair, and immune function. Conversely, a positive mindset can help maintain a balanced neuroendocrine system, thereby supporting overall physical health and recovery.

So next time you’re recovering from an injury or infection, try to stay positive. It could actually help you heal faster.

Similar “Against All Odds” Stories

Aron Ralston's Incredible Survival and Triumph: Aron Ralston, known for his harrowing experience of being trapped under a boulder while canyoneering alone in Utah, showcases a remarkable story of survival. After amputating his own arm to free himself, Ralston not only survived but continued to pursue outdoor adventures, including mountaineering and public speaking, inspiring many with his resilience and determination.

Bethany Hamilton's Surfing Success Post-Shark Attack: Professional surfer Bethany Hamilton's story is one of extraordinary courage and perseverance. After losing her arm in a shark attack, Hamilton returned to surfing and went on to win several professional titles.

Alex Zanardi's Return to Racing After a Devastating Crash: Former Formula One driver Alex Zanardi suffered a horrific crash in a CART (Champ Car) race, resulting in the amputation of both legs. Undeterred, Zanardi returned to racing using specially modified cars and later took up handbike racing, winning multiple Paralympic gold medals.

The BMM Takeaway

Don’t underestimate the power of your mind.

It may sound even a little bit silly to believe that your mindset can actually help heal broken bones faster. But there are actual studies and areas of medicine that are beginning to support this.

Whether it’s the relationship between stress and bodily functions or something more spiritual, either way I believe only good things can come from a positive attitude, so it doesn’t hurt to try.

Remember, there are people without legs who still find the drive to play basketball in a wheelchair because they love it so much. There are artists who paint blind. So whatever it is you’re dealing with, if these people can get back up and do what they love again, so can you.