Hello, my name is Sandi, and I was hit by a car on March 19, 2005.  I presented with a diaphragmatic hernia, a fractured right elbow, a laceration to the inguinal area and severe open wounds to the right rear leg.  Dr. McCauley repaired my diaphragmatic hernia. Since my diaphragm had completely ruptured, my stomach, liver, spleen, and part of my small intestine were displaced  into my chest.  It made it almost impossible for me to breathe.  The fabulous nursing staff at the emergency clinic took great care of me and administered emergency oxygen as soon as I arrived. The life-saving surgery involves repairing the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen.  It is a very important muscle that helps the rib cage and lung expansion .   My right leg had to be splinted to support the fracture, and the rest of my injuries had to wait until I recovered from surgery.  Dr. Matt Hennessey from Jersey Village Animal Hospital completed my care when I was transferred back to him.  As of February 2007, I have made a full recovery and am doing great!