Mike Aitken Leaves Hospital On His Own Two Feet

Given that he nearly died, nobody thought Mike Aitken would leave the hospital this early - not even Mike. "I can't believe it to tell you the truth," he said.

On October 5th, world renowned BMX rider Mike Aitken, was shooting a video in Pennsylvania when during a bike jump, he fell on his face and suffered a serious head injury. Mike was in a coma for days. His wife Trista flew to Pennsylvania thinking he'd be okay. When she got there, she realized he'd suffered a brain injury and there were no assurances he'd survive.

Mike improved fast once he was moved to the Intermountain Medical Center in Murray. "They say they've never seen anyone progress this fast. They're so proud of him," said Trista.

After intense therapy and an intense will to get better, Mike walked out of the Hospital on Thursday. With his family in tow, he limped slightly, but couldn't stop smiling. Mike says he doesn't have full control of the limbs on the right side of his body.

When asked if he'd ride a bike again, he said "I'm going to ride again. But with a helmet,", he said. Mike admits before the accident he never considered wearing a helmet. "But now that this happened, you almost have to. There's no way you can get around not wearing a helmet. You almost die? Come on. You have to wear a helmet."

Mike says although he doesn't remember the accident, or days after, he does remember the moment when he saw his 2 year-old son Owen. "It opened my eyes. 'What are the things I really care about?' those are the things I care about. My wife and my little boy."

Mike says he is grateful to the many fans all around the world who sent him well wishes through his website and who also sent donations. Because of his profession, Mike can't get health insurance and now has steep medical bills. Of his fans he says "I feel blessed. Each one of them I feel I owe something to."

As Mike walked out of the hospital, about 20 friends cheered him on. Mike says he hopes to get back on a bike in the spring. For now, he'll enjoy his time with his wife and son.

If you want to learn more about mike's progress or make a donation, go to Mike's website at www.mikeaitken.com.