Bells continue to grow closer through recovery

Bobbie Samme’

At first glance, Harold and Deb Bell seem like your typical married couple enjoying their retirement. However, once you meet and get to know them both a little better, you will have a greater appreciation and respect for what love really is and just how strong it can be.

The Bells, who live in Aurora, have been traveling a painful, yet rewarding journey since their near-death motorcycle accident six years ago.

On a hot August day in 2012, Harold Bell almost died. Were it not for the quick thinking of his wife Deb, a former Army medic, he would have.

The Bells, both 59, were enjoying a summer afternoon motorcycle ride near Keyes Lake, when a deer jumped into their path and Harold, who was in front of Deb, swerved to avoid it and crashed. Deb crashed as well, but only suffered a broken wrist.

Harold’s helmet was crushed and was choking him, and Deb knew that if she didn’t remove it, he would suffocate. She also knew that if she moved him, he might become paralyzed for life. She chose the former.

For the full story, see this week’s issue of The Florence Mining News.