Hope Survives® | Brain Injury Podcast

Life with brain injury and concussion can feel so overwhelming, affecting identity and sense of self… so let's talk about finding hope and making sense of the messy!  Today, Cristabelle is joined by Natasha Wilch, a physical therapist and concussion specialist, who shares insights into concussions and the importance of a holistic approach. We discuss the challenges of living with brain injury, including not trusting your body and dissociation, and the courage and bravery it takes to hope and try again after setbacks. Natasha also helps us understand the need to address the root causes of symptoms and why an integrated approach to concussion rehabilitation can make a huge difference. There are so many layers to this multi-faceted journey of healing, and we hope this episode will encourage you to keep gongs even when it's hard. You are not alone! ***CONCUSSION NERDS SUMMIT REGISTRATION LINK: https://www.natashawilch.com/a/2147875754/K6Qwrgrd Clinician Track: https://www.natashawilch.com/a/2147875753/K6Qwrgrd Healing Journey Track: https://www.natashawilch.com/a/2147875752/K6Qwrgrd 00:00 Intro with Cristabelle  13:00 Introducing Natasha 15:30 The Challenges of Living with Brain Injury 20:30 Addressing the Root Causes of Symptoms 25:15 Rebuilding Trust in Oneself 27:05 The Courage to Hope and Try Again 30:25 A Holistic Approach to Concussion Recovery 33:55 The Power of Mindset  38:15 Challenges in Finding the Right Care 48:15 Concussion Nerds Summit + Program Info 52:33 Words of Hope Connect with Natasha: https://www.natasha-wilch.com CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives⁠

Lynda and Richard have been married for almost 28 years. The day of their 25th wedding anniversary (9/25/21), while on vacation in Salt Lake City, Lynda was crossing a busy street on a pedestrian crosswalk at a green light. The driver of a lifted SUV made an illegal left turn to beat incoming traffic and hit her full force. She was thrown off and landed to the right side of her head. She was brought by ambulance to the ER and transferred to the Trauma/ICU unit. She was diagnosed with a severe traumatic brain injury. From that day forward, Lynda and Richard (as her caregiver) embarked on a treacherous and challenging journey. Today, Lynda and Richard join Cristabelle to share their story and hope for others going through similar circumstances. They both share their struggles as well as the way they have chosen to find the silver lining in adapting to life with brain injury. 0:00 Intro with Cristabelle 5:20 Lynda and Richard  10:20 TBI Story 19:05 Hope in New Treatments 24:20 Rehab Process and Symptoms 29:30 Invisible Injury 33:00 Caregiver / Family Member Perspective 36:50 Finding a New Routine 39:20 It's Okay to Ask for Help 41:20 Words of Hope Connect with Lynda and Richard: LV0925@gmail.com CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives⁠

After experiencing a concussion or any type of brain injury, the road to recovery can be one that is full of ups and downs, and unexpected twists and turns. Today, Dr. Brittni Charle joins Cristabelle for a conversation all about setbacks, flare ups, and re-injuries and all the unexpected bumps in the road that can hit — and also the wins and victories that we can celebrate along the way! Recovery looks different for each person, but there is help to be prepared for what might be around the bend. 0:00 Intro with Cristabelle 8:45 Introducing Dr. Brittni Charle 14:00 Common Struggles & Symptoms 19:00 Flare-Ups 22:30 Self-Awareness 26:15 Different Types of Flare-Ups 30:15 Everything is Harder 35:15 Flare Ups vs. Re-Injuries 40:15 Ways Impact to Brain Can Happen 42:00 Everyone has a Unique Recovery 46:65 Setbacks and Victories 48:30 Moving Forward 50:45 Words of Hope Connect with Dr. Brittni Charle: - IG: @asenseofstability CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives⁠

Today, Cristabelle is joined by Lindy Boone Michaelis, sharing her family's journey with her son Ryan's severe TBI. Brain injuries affect the entire family: "You get a call or you get notified, and for me, my life is now divided into two halves: before June 19, 2001 and after June 19, 2001... because everything changed." Listen as Lindy shares from a place of vulnerability, wholehearted compassion, and kindness - and you are sure to be uplifted as she shares her story and words of life, love, and hope for both survivors and caregivers / family members. You are not alone! 0:00 Intro wtih Cristabele 6:45 Introducing Lindy 9:30 Her Son Ryan's TBI 13:15 Processing, Praying, Journaling 16:00 Ryan's Rehabilitation Journey 22:00 Growth in Communication 25:15 Family's Journey 32:00 Ryan's Reach - Nonprofit + Group Homes 39:30 Lindy's Song - Wordlayer 43:45 Words of Hope Lindy Boone Michaelis was born into an entertainment environment as the second daughter of singer/entertainer Pat Boone and grew up in Beverly Hills, California. For 7 years, the Boone Family toured all over the U.S. and internationally. The Boone Girls recorded several Christian albums, including “First Class” which was nominated for a Grammy award. Lindy is mother to Ryan, Jessica, and Tyler. She has been happily married to Mike Michaelis for 38 years. She has authored a book called “Heaven Hears” after her son Ryan had a tragic 3 story fall in 2001, telling of the family's faith and the faithfulness of the Father to see them through this ordeal. The family started Ryan's Reach, a foundation to support families of brain injury survivors in 2003 out of gratitude for Ryan's survival and continued recovery. Lindy has just released her first original single, called “Wordlayer,” sung with her sisters Cherry Boone, Debby Boone, and Laury Boone. It is a beautiful song inspired by her son Ryan's journey with traumatic brain injury. Lindy's new song- Wordlayer: ⁠https://www.ryansreach.com/wordlayer⁠ Lindy's book- Heaven Hears: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/141438324X/⁠  Ryan's Reach foundation: ⁠ryansreach.com⁠  CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | ⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | ⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives⁠

Whether you just had a brain injury or if you are years or decades out, there is hope. Concussion protocol is continually evolving, there is always new research coming out, and new technologies that completely change the game! It is so encouraging to know that the future is bright in brain injury rehabilitation. Today, Cristabelle is joined by Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center to share some examples of cutting edge research and technologies within the field of brain injury rehabilitation. There is so much hope for people to continue to get better after brain injury! 0:00 Intro with Cristabelle 7:00 Welcome Dr Schmoe + Hope for Neuroplasticity 10:45 Integrating Multi-sensory Stimulation 15:00 Addressing Brain Feeling “Off” or in Chaos 16:00 Putting the Pieces Together to bring Stability Back 18:15 Importance of Finding Root Cause 21:30 Hope in New Research 26:00 Concussion Protocol is Evolving 28:45 Newer Technologies for Rehab 35:50 Importance of Precise Exam for Precise Rehab 45:50 Metabolic Function, Nutrition, Inflammation, Histamines 48:30 Visual and Vestibular Integration 49:45 Words of Hope  Previous Episodes with Dr. Schmoe: #64 "How to Improve Symptoms on Hard Days" #23 "Brain Health - Strategies to Optimize Your Brain for Healing" Connect with Dr. Schmoe at thefnc.com Email Cristabelle with questions at cristabelle@hopeafterheadinjury.com CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠ Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | ⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com⁠⁠⁠ Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | ⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study⁠⁠⁠ Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives⁠

Did you know your voice can make a huge difference? Today Cristabelle shares about her experience advocating for brain injury in Washington D.C. and explains some of the specific asks for members of congress and senate. Brain Injury is invisible - so using our voice for awareness is even more important. Significantly, this year the TBI Act is up for reauthorization. You can join the Brain Injury Association of America's letter writing campaign and ask your representative to join the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force! More info: https://biausa.org/get-involved Also, this episode includes a brief interview with 3 fellow advocates: Melissa Carmen (survivor), Tonya Nagle (caregiver), and Kevin Bingham (board member of BIAA) Let's make a difference together! There is always hope! 0:00 Intro 5:45 Brain Injury is Invisible 11:30 What You Can Do 13:45 Summary of TBI Act & Our Asks 18:45 Recognizing BI as Chronic Condition 20:20 Expanding Eligibility Criteria to all ABIs 23:30 TBI Model Systems of Care 27:30 Interview in DC with Fellow Advocates 34:10 Words of Hope CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/community⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠ Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | ⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com⁠⁠ Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | ⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study⁠⁠ Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurviv

We're back and ready to kick off Season 3 with some special episodes for Brain Injury Awareness month! Join our host Cristabelle and guest Ali Rheaume for an inspiring and honest conversation about the challenges on the brain injury journey. You are not alone! Ali Rheaume is an award-winning artist, public speaker, disability advocate, and spokesperson who is an encouraging light in the journey of overcoming brain injury. Connect with her on social media @alison.rheaume or at https://www.alirheaume.com CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/community⁠⁠⁠ Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠ Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | ⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com⁠ Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | ⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study⁠ Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! 0:00 Intro 1:50 Updates with Cristabelle 11:00 Introducing Ali 12:20 Ali's Concussion Journey 16:00 Coping Strategies 18:00 Energy Management 21:25 Memory 23:20 Seeing How Far You've Come 26:30 Encouragement for Newly Injured 29:00 Comparison 32:30 Taking Breaks and Letting Go 39:20 Identity 46:00 Words of Hope This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

You can't see it on the outside, but every day living with a concussion / brain injury brings an internal struggle. You're constantly fighting what you want to do, what you used to be able to do, and what your brain will allow you to do. There's the physical toll- the fatigue, the headaches, the balance issues... There's also the emotional toll- the grief, the depression, the loss of identity... and more. Today we wrap up Season 2 with an uplifting episode. Cristabelle opens with an encouraging reminder to be kind to yourself, and then we hear some empowering words of hope from brain injury professionals. You are not alone - and there is always hope! March is Brain Injury Awareness Month! This is the final episode of Season 2 - stay tuned for Season 3 which will premiere later this year! Featuring a lineup of some of our incredible brain injury doctors, professionals, and therapists from Season 2: Rebecca Quinn (Ep.29), Dr. Jen Blanchette (Ep.50), Natasha Wilch (Ep.52), Melissa Biscardi (Ep.54), Sonia Vovan (Ep.40), Katherine Noyes (Ep.55), Dr. Meaghan Kirschling (Ep.42), Dr. Thompson Maesaka (Ep.72), Taryn Barlow (Ep.61), Dr. Michelle Eisenmann (Ep.67), Natalie Mackenzie (Ep.74), Dr. Mark Heisig (Ep.35), Dr. Jeremy Schmoe (Ep.64), Dr. Kelsy Rayl (Ep.59). CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: ⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/community⁠ Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠ Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | ⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com⁠ Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | ⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study⁠ This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

Cristabelle shares reflections and encouragement from her 15 year traumatic brain injury anniversary, along with powerful heartfelt "Words of Hope" from survivors. You are NOT alone! Featuring Season 2 guests: Lisa Pubantz (ep.32), Allison Cook (ep.26), Dillon Berenty (ep.58), Ali Rheaume (ep.39), Madi (ep.62), Nick Krantz (ep.53), Silvie (ep.70), Jeff Huxford (ep.44), Bella Paige (ep.63), Bobby Apgar (ep.68), Cali Lonardelli (ep.37), and Cyndie Braden (ep.38). CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

There are a lot of layers when it comes to brain injury symptoms. In the middle of it, how do you even begin to start to tackle your symptoms in order to move forward? Some days are up, some days are down. It can be overwhelming and emotional when you are just trying to get through each day. This week, Natalie Mackenzie joins Cristabelle to discuss advice on managing symptoms, identifying triggers, how to cope, and work towards a plan to improve over time. There is always hope! Connect with Natalie on social media @thecognitiverehabcoach or at https://thebiss.co.uk/ 0:00 Intro 5:15 Introducing Natalie 7:00 Emotional side of Managing Symptoms 17:05 Identifying Triggers/Symptoms 19:35 Growing Self-Awareness 27:00 What's Not Working vs. What Will 32:00 Investigating your Symptoms 42:30 Uncovering the Layers 46:15 Common Symptoms to Look For 51:15 Facing your Struggles 53:15 Asking for Help from Loved Ones 55:45 Words of Hope CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

Spoiler alert: there's more than “just rest”! This week Dr. Mark Heisig helps us to understand some of the new research on what can help concussion patients to improve. It's a comprehensive look at what you can do metabolically to prime your brain to heal. Key takeaway: it's important to take a full picture look when someone has a concussion, and creating a targeted treatment plan, rather than just ignoring the symptoms and hoping they go away. This will be helpful if you (or your loved one) are in the acute stages, or if you have been living with post-concussion symptoms for some time. There is hope, and there is help! Connect with Dr. Mark Heisig at drheisig.com or on instagram: @drmarkheisig 0:00 Intro 10:00 Introducing Dr. Mark Heisig 16:00 New Concussion Research 18:30 Acute Concussion Treatment 20:40 Red Flag Symptoms 22:10 Helping Post-Concussion Symptoms 25:00 Finding your “BAM” 25:45 Hydration 27:20 Breathing 30:25 Nutrition/Gut Issues 40:50 Top Things to Do 44:00 Why Prolonged Rest Worsens Symptoms 48:40 Words of Hope CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

When your head is in pain, everything else feels harder. After a brain injury, headaches can be a major symptom that decreases quality of life for survivors. This week, Dr. Thompson Maesaka is here to help us understand all things post-injury headaches, including hidden causes. We will also discuss the difference between post-concussion headaches and "true migraine," neurologists, and medication. When you can identify the cause behind WHY your head is in pain, it will help you to treat it effectively. Connect with Dr. Thompson Maesaka: mnmigraineandconcussion.com ; IG: @dr.thompson_maesaka ; TikTok: @headache_whisperer 0:00 Intro 9:30 Introducing Dr. Thompson 12:00 Post-Injury Headaches 15:30 Stress on your System 20:30 Reasons for Headaches 22:00 Basics on How to Help Headaches 25:00 Neck and Eyes Relationship 30:50 Neurologists and Medication 34:10 Post-TBI Headaches Vs. True Migraine 44:45 Top Things to Know 51:10 Words of Hope CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

Friends, dating, family, co-workers, and more... social communication can be a struggle for brain injury survivors! Let's break down some of the common difficulties in interpreting social cues from others, as well as how symptoms affect the way we communicate. This week, Cristabelle has invited Speech Language Pathologist Katherine Noyes to join for all things relationships and social communication after TBI. Some topics include: nonverbal cues, tone of voice, repeating yourself, memory loss, interrupting, texting/social media, and more. We'll also discuss maintaining friendships and navigating dating relationships. This episode is helpful for survivors but also will provide value for caregivers, friends and family to understand why some of these breakdowns in communication may happen. It would be a good one to share with your loved ones! Connect with Katherine: @lotus_slp or lotusslp.com Related Episode: #55 - "Communication and Cognition after Brain Injury (with Katherine Noyes)" to learn more about word-finding, aphasia, and more. 0:00 Intro 7:20 Introducing Katherine & SLP 12:50 Challenges in Social Cues after TBI 20:50 Communication Breakdowns 23:30 Dating 29:20 Friendships 35:20 Self-Awareness 36:50 Helping Communication Partners 42:20 Considering your Strengths 47:15 How does SLP help? 49:40 Words of Hope CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

It is common to feel a loss of self after a concussion when you lose so many things you used to be able to do - but there is hope. This week, Cristabelle speaks with Silvie from The Concussion Community. Silvie struggled for years to find the right help and understand what was going on with her. Her concussion was even misdiagnosed as anxiety. The regular doctors she visited couldn't address her symptoms, so she wasn't getting help from them. Eventually, Silvie found the right concussion treatments and she is here to share what she has learned from her journey, offering hope to listeners to know that rebuilding your life is possible. 0:00 Intro 4:30 Hope Story with Cristabelle 14:05 Sylvie's Concussion Journey 19:15 Misdiagnosed with Anxiety 21:10 Looking for Help 25:30 Rebuilding Life 29:30 Concussion Community 32:25 Getting Treatment 38:00 Hope for Everyone 41:30 Words of Hope Connect with Silvie: @theconcussioncommunity | theconcussioncommunity.com CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

If you have felt like something is “off” but you can't quite pinpoint what it is, it is possible that you have a form of Dysautonomia (related to the Autonomic Nervous System). It is very common after brain injury. This week, Sonia Vovan, PT is here to help us understand the basics of dysautonomia - and beyond - as we discuss ways to help address symptoms. October is dysautonomia awareness month! Sonia Vovan is a Registered Physiotherapist and Certified Vestibular Therapist working in Toronto Canada with individuals with vestibular issues and concussions. She received her advanced training in Vestibular Rehabilitation through Duke University's School of Medicine (accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association). Sonia is an advocate for individuals suffering from brain injuries and is a Board Member on the Brain Injury Association of York Region (based in Ontario Canada). She is also working on her Ph.D. program at York University (Toronto) to study the implications of sensorimotor changes, such as visual and vestibular issues, following a concussion. Connect with Sonia: @allinyourheadpt or https://soniavovan.com 0:00 Intro w/Cristabelle 8:15 Introducing Sonia 10:45 What is Dysautonomia? 12:35 Dysautonomia in Concussion 13:50 POTS vs other forms of Dysautonomia 15:15 Cristabelle's experience 18:05 Dysautonomia and Anxiety 19:00 Effects of Dysautonomia 22:35 Where to Start 27:15 Giving your Brain Stability 28:55 Addressing Metabolic Issues 32:15 Hormones and Dysautonomia 34:40 Finding Underlying Issues 37:45 Advocate for yourself 19:30 Things you can Do 40:25 Words of Hope Make sure to go back and listen to Episode 40, when Sonia shares all about the Vestibular System! CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's songs "Hope Survives" and "Not Giving Up" on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

The ups and downs of brain injury can be hard to navigate, and can often feel downright frustrating. This week we're talking about these frustrations and what it means to learn to advocate for yourself, the journey of acceptance, how it affects relationships, and more. This week's guest Bobby Apgar is a TBI survivor and speaker. In 1995, Bobby was a college football start getting recognized as a pre-season All-American at a Division 1 level when he suffered a life changing car accident which caused a significant traumatic brain injury. After being in a coma for 28 days, Bobby began the journey of rehabilitation - but he didn't realize how much the TBI would affect his life. In recent years, Bobby was faced with coming to grips with his TBI like never before and began a journey of acceptance through entering the brain injury community. Today he openly shares this journey, including many of the frustrations and difficulties - and will leave you feeling inspired to never give up! See Bobby's testimony video (mentioned): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCo5ZBB80ZA CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's songs "Hope Survives" and "Not Giving Up" on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

Let's continue the discussion on how to keep your recovery moving forward - Dr. Michelle Eisenmann is back to help us understand the importance of a lifestyle that supports brain healing, and what to look for in a practitioner. Connect with Dr. Michelle: https://www.resiliencybh.com/ CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's "Hope Survives" song on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

Do you ever feel "stuck" in not knowing how to move forward with your recovery? Today, Dr. Michelle Eisenmann is here in part 1 of a 2 part series to help us understand some things we can do to to keep our brain injury recovery on track. This week we will touch on the importance of finding the right practitioner (more on that next week!) and some tips on how to define your recovery goals. Most importantly, you will be encouraged to move forward with confidence, grace, and grit. Connect with Dr. Michelle: https://www.resiliencybh.com/ 0:00 Intro 5:35 Introducing Dr. Michelle 11:05 The importance of current research 12:35 Frustrations with Practitioners 15:15 How do you know what you need? 18:00 Defining recovery goals 21:00 Finding Root causes 22:50 Addressing Lifestyle 25:00 Finding Care that aligns with your goals 27:00 Grace & Grit CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's "Hope Survives" song on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

For brain injury survivors, having some sort of self-awareness when it comes to symptoms is key to moving forward in recovery. When we are able to learn our brain & body's "tells" or when a symptom flare-up is beginning to happen, we are better able to assess if we need to rest, or if we can push through. It also helps us to know what types of treatment to seek out - especially because it's invisible, so others can't see your symptoms on the outside. However, self-awareness after brain injury doesn't always come easy due to feeling disconnected from yourself, the constant fatigue, or even just headache pain. Today, Cristabelle walks us through how to grow in self-awareness so that we can become better advocates for our own recovery. Caregivers will also learn how to support their survivor in growing in this area. CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's song "Hope Survives" on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Symptom flare-ups and hard days will happen when recovering from a brain injury / concussion - and it can be exhausting and disheartening. But there are actually things we can do to help, if we learn the right things to check and respond to our brain & body's signals. Our nervous system is more adaptable than we may think! Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is here to teach us exactly how to help ourselves feel better on those hard days. Connect with Dr. Schmoe: theFNC.com 0:00 Intro w/Cristabelle 10:00 Introducing Dr. Schmoe 17:00 Your Nervous System can Adapt 18:50 Topic Intro: Keeping Recovery Going 19:50 Check In with Yourself 20:25 Checking Autonomics 22:45 Checking Gut Inflammation 25:10 If Cardio Flares Up Symptoms… 26:00 How to Know if Cardio Will Help 29:45 Checking Vestibular 31:15 Adaptive Exercise 33:00 Checking Eye Movements 34:30 Finding the “Perfect Recipe” For Yourself 36:50 Checking Cerebellum 38:25 Checking Neck 40:40 Checking Dual Tasking 42:15 Learning to Recognize Flare-Ups 45:00 Finding a Good Provider CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's "Hope Survives" song on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

Concussion symptoms and mental health can be very interconnected, especially when you can't see the symptoms on the outside. Today, Cristabelle interviews Bella Paige (founder of Post Concussion Inc) on her journey with 10+ concussions and trying to hide her symptoms at first and pretending like nothing was wrong. This led to depression, which Bella openly shares with us today in a candid and inspiring conversation. Bella Paige is a brain injury advocate. After sustaining over ten concussions and experiencing post-concussion syndrome for years, she hit a low spot and attempted to take her own life. After going to therapy, Bella knew she needed to do something for all those suffering from this invisible injury. She started Post Concussion Inc because she wanted to aid not only individuals who have suffered from concussions but also their families and friends. Connect with Bella: @postconcussioninc or postconcussioninc.com CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's "Hope Survives" song on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

"I realized that I can recover without being who I was, and I can find myself without being who I was, and I don't need to fully recover - and walk and see and do all of these things that might not be possible for me - to be happy. Like I can still be happy without being the person I was with the abilities I had." -Madi Grose After a brain injury, it is really common to struggle with identity when your abilities and entire life changes. Today, we are talking about finding yourself again after your injury, even through the symptoms and changes. Cristabelle interviews inspiring TBI survivor Madi Grose, who shares her story and encouragement on how to cope with living with a significant traumatic brain injury. We also discuss how to find joy and happiness, even while walking through the very real feelings of grief and sadness. This is an uplifting episode as you'll hear Madi's joy radiate through the entire conversation! CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's "Hope Survives" song on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

Have you ever been so overwhelmed you couldn't finish a task? What about feeling overstimulated in a grocery store, to the point of panicking? Many brain injury survivors experience overstimulation and brain fog. This is a great episode to learn some tools on how to process this, whether you are a survivor yourself or a caregiver learning how to identify this for your loved one. Overstimulation and brain fog can be frustrating both for the survivor and for the people around them. Taryn Barlow is here to teach us some tools on how to evaluate our environment, lifestyle, and symptoms to figure out the source of overstimulation. We talk about practicing Sensory Awareness, how to have a "battle plan" of strategies to help, and the importance of being patient with yourself. Taryn Barlow is a Cognitive Health Coach (TM) which is a unique combination of her background in Speech-language Pathologist, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, and a Certified Brain Injury Specialist. Taryn is the owner of a virtual private practice (The Well Brain), that combines her knowledge of cognition and brain healthy lifestyle balance to support adults who have sustained brain injury. Connect: IG- @taryn_thewellbrain Email- thewellbrainslp@gmail.com 0:00 Intro 2:30 Cristabelle 9:00 Introducing Taryn 15:15 Lifestyle Beyond Therapies 20:00 Overstimulation - Sensory Awareness 29:00 Brain Fog 31:00 Making Your Battle Plan/Strategy 36:00 Finding the “Something” Source of Overstimulation 42:30 Cognitive Tasks 44:50 Letting Go of Perfection 48:30 Overdoing It Leads to Fatigue 51:00 Words of Hope Note: We will be taking a short break, expect new episodes to return in a couple weeks! CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

It can be hard to hold onto hope when it feels like there are just setbacks around every corner. Listen as Cristabelle shares her heart on this and how to continue moving forward, even when things are really hard. You are not alone. CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

A major part of living with brain injury can become the doctors appointments, therapies, and healthcare system - but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Dr. Kelsy Rayl is here to walk us through some steps to be more empowered as a patient, including practical tools on what to do to show up at appointments informed and get the most out of them. We also discuss managing symptoms in appointments, identifying personal recovery goals, and how to find the right medical team. It is important to know which doctors will help you to do which things, so that you can get your needs and symptoms addressed. This is an encouraging and very important conversation for anyone navigating the healthcare system post-brain injury. Whether you are a survivor, caregiver, or family member listening - you'll leave more empowered and informed to know that you can take an active role in this healthcare journey! 0:00 Intro 5:30 Introducing Dr. Kelsy 8:30 Identity Post-Brain Injury 9:40 Lifestyle Change of Dr. Appts 13:30 Patient Empowerment 16:30 Identifying Strengths/Limits 17:45 Provider Perspective 19:00 Understanding Roles of Different Providers 30:15 Managing Symptoms w/ Appts. 36:00 Practical Tips for Documentation 42:15 Identifying & Prioritizing Recovery Goals 47:40 Seeking Second Opinions 48:45 Self-Advocacy 50:00 Words of Hope Connect with Dr. Kelsy: @drkelsyrayl_dpt CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

"I was given less than 10% chance of surviving. Doctors were saying that they couldn't imagine me walking, that I wouldn't be able to talk, that I couldn't see... and the one big thing about my story is that I proved them all wrong. Even if the odds are stacked against you, and hope seems almost lost, always believe in the little percent that things are going to be okay. Because I took that small percent that they said that I was going to make it - I took it and ran. And I'm still here today." -Dillon Berenty Listen to an inspiring survivor story as Dillon Berenty shares his journey of hope through brain trauma. After a concussion, Dillon was taken to the hospital, and through the scans a brain tumor was discovered. Six brain surgeries later, and a 10% chance of survival, Dillon is beating the odds every day. He shares some of the symptoms, struggles, ways he has learned to adapt, and how he has learned to keep perspective through it all. This is an uplifting story that is sure to encourage you, wherever you are at on your journey. CONNECT Next Zoom Group - June 22 - Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Hormones can become disrupted after a brain injury, and today Melissa Biscardi is here to share current research and dive deeper into what this looks like for females, including the menstrual cycle, menopause, birth control, and more. We also discuss practical steps you can take if you think you or your loved one's hormones may have been affected. 0:00 Intro 4:55 Melissa & Her Research 8:10 When Menstrual Cycle is “Off” 10:25 Women and Concussions 12:25 Overlap with TBI Symptoms 14:25 Post-Partum Symptoms 15:55 Current Research of Brain Injury & Hormones 19:05 What you can do 20:10 anti-Müllerian hormone - Pre-Menopause & Menopause 23:45 Birth Control 26:20 Hormone Disruption 27:10 Cycle Connection with Risk of Injury 29:55 What you can do Connect with Melissa: rehablab.ca @the.rehab.lab CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Living with a brain injury, some days hope is the only thing that gets you through. This week, Cristabelle is joined by her mother, Cyndie Braden, to speak about lessons they have learned over the 14 years of brain injuries. They speak vulnerably about some of the difficult aspects of the journey, while also sharing the growth in the family, caregiver, and survivor perspectives. You will also hear clips of Cristabelle from 10 years ago in 2012 speaking about her injury, at around the 5 year mark, as we reflect on 10 years of Hope After Head Injury. Empowered hope is knowing that there may still be things that will be hard, but there is always something you can do to move forward on your journey. You are not alone! Share how Hope After Head Injury has helped you - in a written or voice message format! https://www.hopeafterheadinjury.com/10years Connect with Cyndie: @cyndiebraden | cyndie@hopeafterheadinjury.com CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Communication is so important to our world, but it can be drastically affected for brain injury survivors. Difficulties include word finding, forming ideas, expressing oneself, understanding nonverbal cues, and more… so let's work to understand this deeper and talk about some tips that can help! Today we are diving into the connection between communication and cognition, and how this can be affected after brain injury. Katherine Noyes is a Speech Language Pathologist who is here to guide us in learning tools for improvement for executive functioning and communication. We also discuss tips for family/caregivers to help the survivor get their goal of communication across, as well as the non-verbal side of social cues, difficulty understanding sarcasm, and more. Share how this podcast or the Hope After Head Injury groups have helped you! Accepting written & audio messages that could be shared on the podcast! https://hopeafterheadinjury.com/10years 0:00 Intro 2:00 10 Years 7:05 Introducing Katherine 10:15 Communication & Cognition 15:00 SLP / After Brain Injury 22:05 Tools for Improvement 28:55 Routine as a Strategy 33:05 Word Finding / Goal of Communication 36:05 How Family/Caregivers can Help 39:50 Difficulty with Social Cues / Sarcasm 48:35 Words of Hope Connect with Katherine: @lotus_slp or lotusslp.com CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Brain injury affects the whole person - and every injury is different. That is why it is so important to learn as much as we can about current research and rehab practices. This week, Melissa Biscardi from Rehab Lab is guiding us through pillars of concussion care to learn about different pieces of recovery that we may not have known to address. This includes: Autonomic Nervous System, Nutrition / Supplements, Psychological Support, Soft Tissue / Manual Therapy, Rehab + Memory / Cognition. We will also discuss how to find the right clinician. You'll leave this episode with some takeaways that can help you to find where to go next in your recovery journey. 0:00 Intro 8:45 Introducing Melissa 12:15 Why Rehab? 17:40 Pillars of Care - overview 24:05 Autonomic Nervous System 26:40 Nutrition / Supplements 30:25 Psychological Support 31:30 Soft Tissue / Manual Therapy 35:10 Finding the Right Clinician 41:05 Rehab + Memory/Cognition 43:45 Cristabelle's Example 49:00 Words of Hope Connect with Melissa: rehablab.ca @the.rehab.lab CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

After 17+ concussions, Nick Krantz found himself at the end of his rope, having been told by many medical professionals that there wasn't really anything he could do, and he would just have to live with the symptoms. It was then that he discovered that there is so much more to brain injury recovery than he ever knew, and he began a journey of learning to overcome PCS, including nutrition, mindset, balancing hormones, exercise, and more. Today, Nick shares his story of overcoming PCS and finding hope in recovery. 0:00 Intro 6:20 Nick's TBI Story 14:05 Symptoms 17:30 Fighting for Recovery 26:00 Power of Mindset 27:50 Taking Control 29:10 Hormones/Nutrition/Lifestyle 36:50 Autonomic Nervous System Regulation 40:50 Think about How you View Yourself 46:50 Words of Hope Connect with Nick: @neurofitnick on IG CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

After a concussion or brain injury, the function of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) can be commonly disrupted. This can cause a dysregulation between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system - leading to increased symptoms. This week, Natasha Wilch is back to explain the ins and outs of the ANS as it relates to brain injury. She will also explain dysautonomia and POTS, and share some practical tools to improve autonomic function. 0:00 Intro 2:20 Cristabelle 7:55 Introducing Natasha 13:11 What is the Autonomic Nervous System 14:20 Parasympathetic vs. Sympathetic 17:15 Effect of Concussions/Brain Injury 21:20 Compass 31 Tool to Bring to Practitioners 22:55 Dysautonomia & POTS 25:40 Cristabelle's Experience 27:25 Identifying Triggers & Response 34:55 Putting the Pieces Together Clinically 36:40 Anxiety or Autonomics? 37:55 Practical Things to Do to Help 42:00 Words of Hope Connect with Natasha: @natasha.wilch or https://www.natashawilch.com/ Compass 31 Assessment: https://www.mvpctr.com/compass-31-online-questionnaire/ CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

How can the "invisible" injury affect our self worth? Survivors often don't realize their own identity as separate from their brain injury. Living with symptoms for so long can take a toll on mental health. It's also easy to take in how other people view the "invisible" injury and let it negatively impact how we view ourselves. But you are more than your injury, and there is hope for improvement! This week, Cristabelle goes deeper into some lesser known pieces of her own story, candidly sharing some of the harder parts to talk about including mental health struggles, navigating social cues, abuse and trauma, and more. You'll hear Dr. Jen Blanchette ask Cristabelle questions, as today's interview was originally aired on TBI Therapist podcast: tbitherapist.com CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Something often overlooked in brain injury recovery is the effect of trauma or PTSD on the survivor. Trauma symptoms can have a lot of overlap with brain injury symptoms, as both stimulate the Autonomic Nervous System. Dr. Jen Blanchette helps us to uncover what this overlap can mean, and explains how addressing trauma can often be a missing piece that can really help to further along brain injury recovery. 0:00 Intro 5:15 Introducing Dr. Jen Blanchette 9:09 Neuropsychology vs. Therapy 14:03 What is “Trauma” exactly? 19:45 Trauma Symptoms 20:45 PCS/PTSD Overlap 24:15 What is Trauma Therapy? 26:25 Role of Autonomic System 31:05 Strategies to Help 32:00 Importance of Community 38:30 Different Types of Trauma Therapy 45:05 Words of Hope Hear Cristabelle's interview on Episode 16 of Dr. Jen's "TBI Therapist" Podcast: https://tbitherapist.com/episode/hope-after-concussion-with-cristabelle-braden/ Dr. Jen Blanchette is a Maine based licensed psychologist, trauma (PTSD) expert, fitness/yoga professional, and concussion clinician. She has over 10 years of training and experience in brain injury therapy and neuropsychological testing. Her superpower is curiosity and out of the box thinking to aid in finding new ways to thrive. She helps determined, ambitious brain injury survivors gain the tools and support they need to LIVE again. Dr. Blanchette is also the host of the TBI Therapist podcast, which discusses the intersections of meaning, mental and emotional wellness, and acquired brain injury. Contact: tbitherapist.com @tbitherapist CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Let's discuss some specifics on how to sleep better after a brain injury. Dr. Wilkins also shares important information on sleep hygiene, what a sleep study will do, and hope that there is help available. This is Part 2 - check out last week's episode to hear an introduction on how sleep affects the brain and sleep disturbances after brain injury, along with more of Dr. Wilkins personal journey with TBI. 0:00 Intro 5:15 Getting to Root Cause 7:00 Trouble Falling Asleep 10:00 Trouble Staying Asleep 16:15 Help with Sleep Medicine 18:05 What is a Sleep Study? 19:30 What Happens when you're Sleep Deprived 22:15 More Sleep Study Info 24:15 Sleep Hygiene / Habits 33:30 Do what you Can Do 35:15 Words of Hope: There's Help 37:20 Contact Roy Wilkins, D.C., M.D., RPSGT has extensive training and history in neurology, chiropractic medicine, and sleep medicine. He received his D.C. degree in 1983, residency orthopedics with board certification in 1989, residency neurology board certification in 1992, fellowship with sleep medicine American academy sleep medicine waiver B program in 2006, and MD degree UHSA 2010. He has owned and operated sleep labs White Mountain Sleep Lab from 2003 to present. Contact: roydwilkins@hotmail.com CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Dr. Roy Wilkins is an expert in sleep medicine - and a brain injury survivor himself! This week we will learn the importance of how sleep affects the brain. Dr. Wilkins also shares some of his own journey with TBI, along with why there can be sleep disturbances after a brain injury. Stay tuned for PART 2 with Dr. Wilkins next week! 0:00 Intro 2:15 Cristabelle 7:50 Introducing Dr. Roy Wilkins 9:50 TBI Experience 17:50 Why is sleep so important? 21:10 Sleep & Brain Injury 25:20 Sleep & Autonomic System 28:20 Suggestions for Helping Sleep Roy Wilkins, D.C., M.D., RPSGT has extensive training and history in neurology, chiropractic medicine, and sleep medicine. He received his D.C. degree in 1983, residency orthopedics with board certification in 1989, residency neurology board certification in 1992, fellowship with sleep medicine American academy sleep medicine waiver B program in 2006, and MD degree UHSA 2010. He has owned and operated sleep labs White Mountain Sleep Lab from 2003 to present. CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Let's talk about effective communication between survivors and family caregivers at home! This week, married couple and survivor/caregiver duo Terry & Drew Niemann are here to inspire us and talk about some of the challenges and lessons learned on their journey. We also discuss mental health, depression, mindfulness, and the importance of communication from both sides. 0:00 Intro 5:30 Introducing Drew & Terry 9:45 The Caregiver/Spouse Role 12:50 Finding a Rhythm 19:50 Push and Pull of Independence 21:00 Not Being Hard on Yourself 24:45 Depression & TBI 27:00 Survival Mode 28:50 Mindfulness and Mental Health 33:00 Caregiver Perspective 33:41 Lessons Learned 38:10 “A Battle Within” 42:20 Words of Hope Drew & Terry also host their own podcast called "A Battle Within" - hear Cristabelle's interview on their podcast on Ep.120 "There is Always Hope" https://abattlewithin.com/120/ and check out their podcast on all platforms! Connect with them: @a_battle_within CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

There are a lot of things you CAN do to help your recovery - and it's built on the foundation of your mindset! This week, fitness professional David Freeman, who has also had concussions from playing football, helps us to connect to our values and strengths and shares some tangible things we can do to improve our recovery and overall wellness. 0:00 Intro 2:15 Cristabelle 13:40 Introducing David 17:00 Foundation of Mindset 21:30 Redefine Success 27:40 Being True to You with Loss of Identity 29:50 Importance of Sleep 32:40 Importance of Nutrition 33:55 Management of Stress 35:10 Intentional Movement 38:40 Creating Better Habits 42:55 Personal Growth Mindset David Freeman is a health and fitness professional that has been in the fitness industry for 10+ years. He is the National Digital Performer Brand Manager, Director of Inclusion and Diversity as well as the Co-Host of Life Time Talks Podcast with Life Time the Healthy Way of Life Company. He has been featured on the cover of Experience Life Magazine as an innovator within the health and fitness industry, and has been featured in Men's Health and Men's Journal, as the subject matter expert in helping change lives around the world and grow Life Time's overall brand. Connect with David at @freezy30 on instagram David's Book Recommendation: StrengthsFinder2.0 by Tom Rath CONNECT Listen to Cristabelle's new "Hope Survives" single on all music streaming platforms! Join the Virtual Concert on March 25 - "Hope in Song" supporting Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania - more info: https://biapa.org/hopeinsong Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

While each brain injury is unique, there are things we can do to treat it - as you find what works on your personal path of recovery. Dr. Molly Parker shares her personal concussion experience, including advice for work/life/symptom balance, routine, and boundaries. Then, we dive into the different types/sub-types of concussions, understanding your individual symptom profile, how to find the right provider, and more! 0:00 Intro 2:30 Announcements from Cristabelle 8:00 Introducing Dr. Molly 11:20 Work-Life-Symptom Balance 15:58 Routine & Boundaries 17:30 Uniqueness of Each Injury 20:00 Need for Comprehensive Care 22:00 Finding the Right Provider 25:45 Different Types/Sub-Types of Concussions 31:45 It's Treatable 35:00 The Invisible Side 39:15 What works for YOU? Connect with Dr. Molly at @mollyparkerpt or concussioncompass.com CONNECT Join the Virtual Concert on March 25 - "Hope in Song" supporting Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania - more info: https://biapa.org/hopeinsong Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

What does “normal” mean anyway? Jeff Huxford was a family medicine doctor in northwest Indiana for ten years before having to retire due to complications from a traumatic brain injury (TBI). He has since become a blogger, author, and speaker - and his story is currently being turned into a feature film! This week, Jeff joins Cristabelle for an uplifting conversation, sharing his story and also touching on parenting with a brain injury, coping strategies for symptoms, and the perspective of having a brain injury for nearly a decade. March is Brain Injury Awareness Month! 0:00 Intro 6:20 Introducing Jeff 7:50 Brain Injury Awareness 10:20 How did you get your brain injury? 14:55 Finding Normal 16:30 Symptoms & Coping 23:40 Parenting with TBI 30:20 Finding Normal Book & New Normal Movie 33:50 Words of Hope Connect with Jeff at: jeffhuxford.com CONNECT Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Brain Injuries are invisible. You can't see them on the outside, and that's one of the reasons awareness is so important. They can be overlooked, misdiagnosed, or mistreated, and survivors feel the burden. This week, Cristabelle shares some of her personal brain injury story, and how she has seen awareness improve over the last decade - along with encouragement for how you can make a difference by bringing awareness right where you are. March is Brain Injury Awareness Month! Related Past Episodes to Check Out: 17. Understanding the Invisible Injury (with Cyndie Braden) 19. Brain Injury Association of America (with Susan H. Connors, BIAA President & CEO) 21. How to Be a Brain Injury Advocate + Tips for Sharing Your Story (with Monica Vaccaro from BIAPA) CONNECT Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

Did you know that healing the gut can be a powerful tool in brain injury recovery? Dr. Meaghan Kirschling is back to explain the way that the brain and gut are connected, including how chronic inflammation can adversely affect healing. There is so much hope in learning things that we can do to take our power back in healing. This is an informative and educational episode that will bring a deeper understanding of what we can do to further our brain healing through the gut. 0:00 Intro 6:45 Introducing Dr. Meaghan 9:00 Brain-Gut Connection 11:45 Inflammation & Information 16:35 Gut Affecting Recovery 18:25 Leaky Gut / Leaky Brain 22:15 Healing the Brain through the Gut 28:15 Gluten & the Brain 31:58 Recommendations 39:15 Words of Hope Connect with Dr. Meaghan Kirschling: @drmeaghankirschling on instagram or through www.oneagorahealth.com CONNECT Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

When you are so overwhelmed that every little thing is causing symptom overload & emotional responses... it may be time to step back and allow your brain and body to rest. This week, Cristabelle shares a personal story and encouragement for the days when everything is all too much. CONNECT Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

After a brain injury, the vestibular system can be impacted and cause symptoms such as feeling off-balance, dizziness, vertigo, headaches, vision, and more. So this week we are discussing all things vestibular recovery with Sonia Vovan, PT! Sonia is here to share her expertise and educate us on all things vestibular rehabilitation, focusing on things we can do to improve recovery. We will also talk about the difference between chronic vs. acute vestibular issues, and practical things we can do to maintain vestibular recovery over time. 0:00 Intro 7:34 Introducing Sonia Vovan, PT 12:40 What is the Vestibular System? 16:57 How does Brain Injury affect it? 20:34 Dizziness, Vertigo, Balance 25:07 Vision / Vestibular Relationship 29:04 Chronic vs. Acute 31:49 Dysautonomia & POTS 37:04 Vestibular Rehab Therapy 40:44 Ways to Improve Vestibular Recovery 45:18 Adaptation vs. Habituation 52:09 Maintaining Recovery 54:49 Words of Hope Connect with Sonia on IG: @all.in.your.head.pt CONNECT Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

What does it mean to have a creative mindset - and how can it help recovery? Let's talk about it! This week Cristabelle is joined by fellow survivor Ali Rheaume to discuss the benefits of creativity, and how having a creative mindset can aid in adaptability. This is an encouraging episode full of practical tips and application points! Ali will also share how incorporating creativity in rehabilitation helped her go from a 10% functioning level and nonverbal after TBI to where she is today! Creative activities can help with learning skills post-TBI like trying new things, expressing emotions, and coping with change. 0:00 Intro 2:25 Cristabelle: Applying Creativity 10:35 Introducing Ali 13:25 Ali's TBI Story 20:50 Creative Mindset in Recovery 23:30 Planning, Pacing, & Balance 28:05 Benefits of Creativity Post-TBI 32:40 Tips for Trying Something New 36:50 Creative Mindset Helps us Cope 29:30 Words of Hope Connect with Ali on IG: @alison.rheaume ; @embracingunique Register for Ali's BIAA webinar: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4100996272117241867 Join the Brain Injury Community on Clubhouse CONNECT Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

The “loss of identity” can be so hard to describe after a brain injury. On the one hand, you are still “you” - but you also don't feel like yourself. There is also a grief that comes with losing the life you had before the injuries. This week, Cristabelle dives deep into this struggle that survivors face and provides hope in knowing you are more than your brain injury. Then, Cristabelle's mother Cyndie Braden is here to talk about the caregiver side. Loss of identity does not just affect the survivor, but also the family, as everything changes for them too. We also discuss what is like to grieve the “old life.” You are not alone. NOTES 0:00 Intro 2:10 Cristabelle on Loss of Identity 10:48 Your Story is not Your Identity 19:31 Introducing Cyndie Braden (Cristabelle's Mom) 24:41 Caregiver Loss of Identity 25:45 Grief Process 44:15 Words of Hope Connect with Cyndie: @cyndiebraden | email: cyndie@hopeafterheadinjury.com CONNECT Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | facebook.com/hopeafterheadinjury Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | facebook.com/cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

How do you define yourself when everything about your life has changed? Cali Lonardelli is a survivor of multiple brain injuries, and this week she shares her story of perseverance and hope. As a teenager, she went from an accomplished athlete in gymnastics and pole vaulting to struggling to be able to walk. Her journey has taken her through many years of symptoms and learning to live with a new reality, as well as Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) eating disorder. Cali is a true overcomer and is now a Physical Therapy student and an intern for the non-profit Pink Concussions. Take a listen as she joins Cristabelle for an inspiring conversation shining a light on what it is like to live with brain injury. NOTES 0:00 Intro 6:15 Introducing Cali 9:18 Concussions + Symptoms 13:15 School Adjustments 17:41 Life Change 20:40 Loss of Identity 23:00 RED-S Eating Disorder 27:50 Therapy & Support 39:45 Coping Strategies 46:05 Words of Hope Connect with Cali: @cali.lonardelli and @pinkconcussions CONNECT Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | facebook.com/hopeafterheadinjury Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | facebook.com/cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

When a brain injury changes your cognitive abilities, your self-worth can be affected. For survivors attending school or in any type of learning environment, it can be hard to keep up because of symptoms and fatigue. Cristabelle knows this firsthand, as she had her first TBI during high school and attended college post-injury. Today we are talking about difficulties with learning after a brain injury, what sort of accommodations are helpful, and how to advocate for yourself. Educator Carly Endres, MS, CBIS, also joins to share insight from her special education background. This episode will provide insight for survivors, parents, families, and anyone in a learning environment. We also talk about some studying tips that are applicable to survivors- whether you are currently in school or not! NOTES 0:00 Intro 2:15 Cristabelle 11:33 Introducing Carly 15:45 Accommodations & Modifications 37:04 Advocating for Yourself / Your Child 41:30 Studying & Reading Tips 49:15 Words of Hope CONNECT Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | facebook.com/hopeafterheadinjury Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | facebook.com/cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Connect with Carly through the North Dakota Brain Injury Network: https://www.ndbin.org/ Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

It is common to develop exercise intolerance while recovering from a brain injury. Today, Dr. Mark Heisig is here to explain why this happens, and give advice for survivors on how to increase movement. Some topics covered: the relationship between symptoms and exercise, autonomic system dysfunction, different types of exercise affect on the brain, suggestions for where to start with increasing movement, and more. Connect with Dr. Mark Heisig and sign up for his newsletter at drheisig.com 0:00 Intro- Exercise Intolerance 7:47 Introducing Dr. Mark Heisig 12:02 What are some challenges with exercise after concussion? 15:33 Exercise & Concussion Symptoms 17:40 Symptom Limited Activity 21:54 Increasing Activity 23:20 Buffalo Concussion Test 28:32 Low, Moderate, and High Intensity Exercise 35:22 Resistance Training 40:53 Duration 44:09 Where to Start for PCS 49:26 Ways to Increase Movement 53:12 Words of Hope Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | facebook.com/cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | facebook.com/hopeafterheadinjury Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

What does it mean to be a brain injury warrior? To kick off the new year, here are some words of hope from 6 incredible survivors. 0:00 Intro 2:21 Cristabelle: Warrior Words of Hope 10:20 Tanya Gauthier: Keep Going 14:02 Jo Ann Glim: Resilience 20:25 Shane Warner: Never Quit 24:07 Ali Rheaume: Combatting Fear 29:34 Rachel Rose Dombeck: Self-Kindness 34:04 Tracy Yatsko Onyekanne: Surviving is Fighting Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | facebook.com/cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | facebook.com/hopeafterheadinjury Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com

There is a trend to post highlights of the year on social media. But do you find that actually hard to do, or even see from others? Living with brain injury, it is easy to feel discouraged from setbacks, or a recovery timeline you had in mind, or comparing to the "old you" and grieving the life before, as well as coping with symptoms on a daily basis. Listen as Cristabelle discusses all of this, while also sharing some of her personal journey through TBI. Life is not a highlight reel. And that is okay. Let's talk about it! Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year! 0:00 Intro 9:44 Life is Not a Highlight Reel 13:56 My First TBI 19:58 Feeling like a Failure 21:47 Improving Little by Little 23:47 Re-Injuries & Setbacks 26:39 Most Recent Concussion Setback 30:14 It Can Be Hard to Look Back 32:14 Celebrating Steps 35:31 Reasons for Discouragement 38:59 You Don't Need a New Years Resolution 39:41 You Don't Need Highlights 40:56 You are More 44:34 Different Ways to Reflect Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | facebook.com/hopeafterheadinjury Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | facebook.com/cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Email: cristabelle@hopeafterheadinjury.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvivespodcast.com