Six weeks ago I was just hacking Burt, a Thoroughbred, in the ring. I had decided it was about time to stop when my next memory was my trainer talking to me in the barn. I had hit my head and helmet (Grand Prix) hard enough to lose consciousness. I was thankful that the CAT scan revealed only a minor concussion. I cannot imagine what would have been the result if I had not been wearing a helmet. But then, I've never mounted a horse without one but continue to see people that do. I see professionals in the warm-up jumper rings at A-rated shows without helmets and I just don't understand. I'm thankful to be celebrating my 50th birthday next week. I counted on replacing my helmet as one of my birthday gifts to myself.