Good morning.
In 2015, within a short period of time, I suffered two acquired brain injuries. The first one happened when a display board fell on my head when I was at a contract job. Five weeks later, I had a second ABI, acquired brain injury, when my car was rear-ended.
I lost my balance. I had no depth perception. I had pressure and ringing in my ears, a severe stutter, severe depression and now PTSD. I could not walk a straight line. I couldn’t read or write without nausea. I couldn’t stand alone. I couldn’t speak without stuttering.
I lost my job. My family and some of my oldest and dearest friends did not understand my brain injuries or PTSD. I heard over and over again that I was not in the military, so how was it possible for me to have PTSD?
Some days are better than others, but a good day can be followed by a bad week, sometimes months. I found a system navigator who helped me find the Vista Centre, an organization that helps people with disabilities find employment. I need an income, but I still have many symptoms from the two brain injuries. I have yet to find suitable employment.
However, through hard work, determination, pure tenacity, my new team and teamwork, I am slowly improving. Every day I tell my brain not to stutter, to walk a straight line, to try to remember more than five things. I am working on these messages, and I will continue until I have completely trained my brain.
I have come far from where I was over three years ago. I have found ways to function. I take many breaks. I try to be mindful through nature. I have potted flowers and vegetables. The plants and the dirt keep me grounded. I enjoy walking again. There are things I still cannot do, but I have not given up on change. I am allowing my brain to reprogram.
I have tried to accept that I am different. I need other people to accept me now for who I am. I have an invisible disability that affects every facet of my life, but I am determined to be the best Debbie I can be.
Thank you.