In the blink of an eye, life can change in an instant. For one young girl, a single car accident turned her world upside down on April 13, 2023; leaving her with life-threatening injuries that seemed insurmountable. The journey ahead was grueling, filled with countless obstacles, but she refused to let this accident define her. Instead, she drew strength from the support of her family, friends, and rodeo community who rallied around her.
Aeriel Schaaf, a young cowgirl from Glen Ullin, North Dakota was determined to fight her way back, representing the true character of perseverance. Her recovery was a testament to her inner strength and the power of family and community support.
Now, she’s back in the saddle, kicking up dust in the arena and living life to the fullest. Her story is a shining example of the unbreakable cowboy spirit and the incredible impact of a supportive community.
The Story: Can you tell us briefly about the car accident and the extent of your
injuries?
“I was involved in a single vehicle rollover accident in which I was ejected through the driver’s door window. The roads were extremely muddy that night, making them unsafe for high speeds. As we crested a hill, the road ahead was covered in mud and water, causing us to lose control. Consequently, I suffered a fracture in my L3 vertebrae, a left occipital/suboccipital fracture, and a frontal skull base fracture that affected the left carotid canal. After nearly two months of intensive care and treatment, I was finally able to leave Craig Hospital on June 17, 2023.”
Initial Reactions: What were your first thoughts when you realized the severity of your injuries and the impact it could have competing in the arena?
“In the beginning, it took me over a month to fully grasp that I had been in a car accident. Initially, I thought I had simply fallen out of bed, as I had done in the past. The reality of the accident was hard to accept. Given the extent of my injuries, I never imagined that I would be able to compete again.”
Road to Recovery: What were some of the most challenging aspects of your recovery process, both physically and mentally?
“Some of the biggest challenges of my recovery included regaining the ability to walk, move my left side, eat, drink, and think clearly. Initially, I couldn’t move the left side of my body at all, making it extremely difficult to walk and maintain my balance. The brain injuries significantly impacted my motor functions, particularly on my left side. In the beginning, my speech was very limited. I wanted to express myself, but the words just wouldn’t come out. Additionally, my thinking process was much slower than usual, making it hard to process information and communicate effectively. The road to recovery demanded patience and inner strength.”
Aeriel Schaaf on her way to recovery at Craig Hospital. [Photo: submitted]
“My mom stayed with me throughout my time in Bismarck and Colorado, providing constant support. My family visited me almost every day to be by my side and show their support. My friends also played a crucial role, visiting and checking in on me whenever they could. My entire class showed their support by sending me a heartfelt card.
My rodeo family was incredibly supportive as well. They organized fundraisers, held a silent auction, and provided emotional support to my family. They even wore my favorite color to show their unity. Craig Maley, ND High School Rodeo National Director, sought permission to share information about my accident at the junior high rodeo in Valley City that weekend, where they prayed for me at the beginning of the rodeo. The following weekend, Sara Bubel (ND rodeo timer/ rodeo mom) sent my mom a video from the high school rodeo in Valley City, showing the prayer they said for me. The outpouring of support from everyone around me was truly overwhelming and deeply appreciated.”
Motivation and Determination: What kept you motivated to push through the tough times and work towards competing again?
“Seeing my family and my horses, especially Wildfire, kept me motivated. Wildfire is my favorite horse and has been a great source of comfort, particularly when my Grandpa Opa passed away. Bella, my sister, would FaceTime me, showing me the animals and anything else I wanted to see. Their support and the bond I have with Wildfire inspired me to push through the tough times and work towards competing again.
In October 2023, I received clearance from my neurosurgeon to begin therapeutic riding. I started riding once a week at TR 4 Heart and Soul. On March 15, 2024, I rode my horse Wildfire for the first time since the accident. A month later, on April 16, 2024, I participated in my first jackpot event. By May 28, 2024, I was back competing at my first high school rodeo since the accident.”
Insight: What valuable insights did you gain about yourself and life during your recovery?
“During my recovery, I learned that I am irreplaceable and the importance of always wearing a seatbelt. I also realized the importance of not letting anyone else drive your vehicle. This experience taught me that I am strong and resilient, and that I should never let anything define me or tell me otherwise. These lessons have profoundly impacted my perspective on life and my sense of self-worth.”
Advice to Others: What advice would you give to others facing similar challenges?
“Never give up, no matter how tough things get. Focus on the positives, even the small ones. Lean on your family and friends for support and guidance; they can be your pillars of strength. Have faith and believe in yourself. If you find strength in your beliefs, trust that a higher power will help guide you through.”
