Brain injury turned my life upside down. There are often moments of frustration at the constant challenges, of the limitations of my physical mobility, and the numerous hidden disabilities including pain and neurofatigue. But there are moments of contentment too.
I have learnt patience, perseverance and have a newfound appreciation for life. Day by day, year by year, my life is slowly changing for the better. My brain thrives on learning, of problem solving, of getting on with it. I have learnt to be happy and grateful for what I have, to be an optimistic realist. I’m healthier than I’ve ever been. I’ve learnt to (mostly) manage my spoons.
But I’m always tired. All. The. Time.
Hearing Dylan Alcott’s acceptance speech as he won Australian of the Year in 2022 overwhelmed me with emotion. It was the catalyst of finally accepting my disability, seven years after acquiring it. A moment of acceptance. I knew then, I was ready to use my lived experience for the better, to give back, to lead, and inspire. Finding face-to-face peer support with other brain injury survivors helped me to feel validated, supported, understood, accepted.
Acceptance has unlocked my true potential, and I feel myself beginning to blossom.
Achieving more and giving my energy to others increases the neurofatigue. It has been a wild ride these last few years, moments of busyness and learning to thrive whilst stuck in the red zone of neurofatigue.
This year I learned about post traumatic growth. It describes me perfectly. From the trauma of brain injuries has come opportunity, knowledge acquisition and understanding, connections with diverse humans, and a changed perspective on life. I feel clearer and more distinct as I continue to grow into this new person, grow into my purpose. Looking back at those early moments, I know how far I’ve come.
Now is a moment of growth and transformation. Like a flower, my petals open to greet the sun.