New Japanese Word (for me)

I must say that "unfortunately" I learned a new Japanese word. ギックリゴシ. Probably the closest English is "I threw my back out."

How many of you have had this experience? I am surprised by speaking with my business partners, both inside and outside of my company, about how many people have actually had this happen to them.

I don't even know the direct cause, but it happened when I was in California last week on business. Fortunately, without my even having to ask, Delta Airlines upgraded me to business class. That made the return flight tolerable.

But on Friday, I wasn't even able to complete my seminar. One of my colleagues had to come in "from the bullpen" to take over for me. And, fortunately, my seminar partner for the day, Patrick, is a former karate champion. He actually had to physically lift me from my chair, not once, but twice!! I couldn't get up.

So, if this has never happened to you, I knock on wood that you can continue forever without experiencing gikkurigoshi.

Robert
P.S. Today is much, much better, お陰さまで！