On May 20, 2023, Linda Johnson’s life changed in an instant.
She and a friend were involved in a serious single-vehicle accident, resulting in both individuals sustaining significant injuries. Linda suffered a broken clavicle and fractured her lower spine. “My L4 was sitting on my spine,” she recalled. Though the road to recovery has been long, both women have since made remarkable progress.
At the time, Linda was a beloved high school English teacher at Southaven High School. The accident came just days before the end of the school year. “So many thoughts were running through my mind,” she shared. “But mostly, I was thinking about my job. I was going to miss graduation, which I had co-chaired with my dear friend and colleague. Needless to say, I did not go.”
A sudden shift and a trusted surgeon
Linda’s treatment began at Semmes Murphey Clinic, where she was under the care of Dr. Jason Weaver. Initially, Dr. Weaver hoped to avoid surgery and recommended a back brace. However, within days, the decision was made to operate. Surgeons inserted rods and pins to stabilize her spine.
Just hours after surgery, Linda met with physical therapists who introduced the “No BLT” rule – no bending, lifting, or twisting – guidelines she would follow diligently for the next seven months.
Learning to move again
Her road to healing was steep, and her limitations were immediate. Walking, standing, and even getting out of bed became daily challenges, especially with a broken clavicle that prevented her from using her arms to push herself up.
“I had to rely on my legs and core,” Linda stated, crediting the strength she’d built through regular workouts at the Kroc Center for helping her navigate those early days.
Despite the pain and difficulty, Linda said giving up was never an option. “I received such wonderful and loving support from my husband Chris, my sweet family, and dear friends,” she reflected. “And I continue to thank God for His grace and healing.”
Step by step, day by day
Linda’s recovery was methodical. She spent 10 days at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis (Baptist East), followed by eight more at Encompass Health as an inpatient. Once home, she continued outpatient therapy and mirrored those same exercises on her own.
“On the days I didn’t go to therapy, I gave myself 30 minutes to work on my upper and lower body,” she recalled. By late August, just three months after the crash, she was walking on a treadmill and pedaling a recumbent bike at the Kroc. By Christmas, she was fully cleared to return to all physical activities. And in February 2024, she was back to taking every class she loved.
Finding strength in community
Today, Linda is a regular at the Kroc Center, where she attends classes such as Les Mills Body Pump, Body Attack, Body Balance, Tone, Core, Combat, and Zumba.
“The Kroc is a great place of diversity and acceptance,” she shared. “The instructors are knowledgeable and compassionate. They encourage you to modify movements and listen to your body.” More than just a gym, the Kroc became her healing ground — physically and emotionally.
“I’ve formed so many wonderful relationships with members, instructors, and staff. It truly has become a home to me.”
A new chapter, a new mindset
Now retired from teaching, Linda’s days revolve around maintaining her health and mobility. At 63, her perspective on wellness has shifted.
“Functional health is so critical,” she emphasized. “It’s not about the dress size or physical appearance. It’s about being able to perform simple daily tasks.” She walks her dog every day and finds purpose in movement, whether it’s a group class or a solo walk around the neighborhood.
For those facing a long recovery, Linda offers simple but solid advice: “Listen to your physical therapists. Walk and perform small daily tasks, if possible. Being consistent is so important.”
More than healed
Linda Johnson’s journey is centered on reclaiming strength, spirit, and a sense of community. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right support system, a positive mindset, and a little sweat, healing can be transformational.
By Beth Wilson
Photo by Tindall Stephens
