I’ve been on a journey since a traumatic brain injury changed my life. Through this experience, I’ve learned that we can overcome adversity and strive to live to our optimum potential. To test how well I am doing, I use the gifts that have been given to me since my injury. One way I have done this is by training dogs and seeing the lives of veterans and first responders change because of it. This has brought me more joy and friendship than ever before. With the right network of support, we can achieve remarkable outcomes despite what may feel like an impossible situation.
Finding Joy in Training Dogs
Since getting married to Mark, my journey accelerated with a passion for training dogs and helping others. Seeing the transformation of a dog’s behavior when they understand your commands brings tremendous joy into my life. What’s even more rewarding is being able to share this newfound love with people who need it most—veterans, first responders, those living with disabilities, and so many more. Words cannot express the feeling of joy that comes from seeing someone experience something new for the first time thanks to a trained companion animal.
Adapting to New Challenges
This journey has also taught me about adapting to new challenges in order to thrive after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). After experiencing TBI myself, I learned quickly that things would never be exactly as they were before—but that didn’t mean they couldn’t be better! With patience and understanding from family members, friends, medical professionals, and caregivers, we can create a new reality full of hope and opportunity despite our limitations or disabilities. We all have different ways o f responding to changes in our lives; however, there are always pathways forward if we are open -minded enough to find them!
The Power of Community Support
Finally, this journey has reminded me just how powerful community support can be in helping us reac h our fullest potential after trauma or disability occurs. Having access to resources such as peer mentorship programs or support groups is essential for those who may feel overwhelmed by their current circumstances or lack confidence in their abilities. There is no shame in asking for help; often times it takes a village for us to face our fears and make progress towards recovery!
Conclusion:
My head injury changed my life forever—and not necessarily for the worse! By using what was given back to me after my injury—like my passion for training dogs—I was able to find joy again while also helping others heal along with me.
My story serves as an example of how we can respond positively when faced with adversity by adapting our expectations and taking advantage of all available resources within our communities. No matter what challenges you may face due to illness or injury, know that there is still plenty of opportunity out there waiting for you if you are willing to look for it!