Leah’s Tibia and Femur Fracture Patient Story
In October 2019, Yeti Tech Rep Leah Vanderlinden endured a traumatic crash while riding through the desert, resulting in fractures to both her tibia and femur. Stranded in a remote area with no cell service and limited resources, Leah found herself in a life-threatening situation, forced to mentally prepare for the worst while awaiting rescue.
In the world of mountain biking, injuries are not uncommon—they are part of the sport’s inherent risk. As Yeti Cycles Co-Owner Chris Conroy candidly states, “It’s not if you’ll get hurt, it’s when.” For athletes like Leah, the recovery process is not just about repairing bones; it’s about rebuilding identity. It’s a test of physical strength, mental endurance, and the will to return to what you love, even when the path back is uncertain.
Leah’s path to recovery was guided in part by Jonathan Godin, MD, an orthopedic surgeon known for his expertise in complex lower extremity injuries. With compassionate care and surgical precision, Dr. Godin helped Leah regain her strength and mobility—supporting her through the critical stages of healing and rehabilitation. His role was pivotal in helping her transition from a traumatic injury back to the trail.
Today, Leah’s story stands as a powerful reminder of what it means to be resilient. It’s a story of determination, recovery, and the unbreakable connection between athlete and sport. Her journey is chronicled in Uphill, a short film that captures both the physical and emotional challenges of her experience.
Watch Uphill and witness Leah’s inspiring comeback—an example of courage, community, and expert care working in tandem to bring an athlete back to life on two wheels.
