“Feb. 21, 2014 I fell snow skiing in Park City, UT. I don’t remember falling. A witness said I hit my head hard, was out and then came to speaking gibberish. I don’t remember her or any of that. I do remember hearing my sister calling my name as she approached, but I was unable to speak or move.
When the ski patrol removed my goggles, I answered the basic questions of who I was and where I was. I didn’t feel any pain at that moment and told them I could ski down the mountain. They weren’t convinced.
When I sat up and they removed my helmet…everything changed. The worst pain I’d ever felt shot into the right side of my head. I couldn’t speak. I just put my hand to my head and I could feel the tears falling. I was taken by ambulance to the hospital where I had CT scans of my brain, abdomen, spine and pelvis. I was diagnosed with concussion, cervical strain and lumber sprain and released.
I was told I'd be better in a few weeks. Five years later I'm still hoping to get better.
I've seen lots of doctors and specialists. Some have been very helpful, others hurtful with their negativity. I've done neurofeedback, vision, light, sound, vestibular and physical therapies. I've had 4 repeat concussions and episodes of non-epileptic seizures.
Life outside my home is still too loud, too bright and too busy. Cognitive struggles, overstimulation and fatigue are a daily struggle. I’m often reminded it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
I will never stop trying to improve because I have hope and I believe in Neuroplasticity. By God’s Grace and the love and support of my family, MY WEAKNESS has made US STRONG. It's Our Life with My Brain Injury.”
-Tracy, TBI Survivor
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