Mighty Member since July 2017
Diagnosed with breast cancer at 37. Surviving a TBI and PTSD seven years later. Learning how to "make gold out of dirt" from both of these journeys has been my maxim. Breast cancer led me to practicing and learning calligraphy, yoga, meditation, triathlon training and becoming a volunteer, fundraiser and advocate for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. A few years later, an unexpected event occurred that made my breast cancer battle look simple and easy by comparison. I can do pretty much everything without my boobs. But you need your brain to do everything. An assault in my workplace led to a traumatic brain injury and PTSD in 2014. I returned to a regimen of meditation and creating art as a therapeutic practice during my ongoing rehabilitation. My lifelong passion for visual art, became a therapy, creating art improves my cognitive deficits and neuro-optometric deficits. During the most difficult periods of my recovery, creating art and meditating together, serve as an intentional distraction from the physical pain and social isolation of the brain injury. Combining the practice of painting and meditating has cultivated a strong inner connection to my intuition and creative energy flow. Creating art for my loved ones and for causes close to my heart, elevates my spirits. I have found new ways to participate in the world that match the needs of my healing brain. In 2016, my artwork was accepted into two juried shows at The Philadelphia Sketch Club. I have created custom art work for friends and for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. In 2017, with much help and encouragement, a website showcasing my artwork launched and helps raise funds for LBBC and neurological research and education Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. Several weeks ago Prince Harry the golden doodle entered my life. I am embarking on a journey to train him as my service dog. With the support of my neurologist, a fantastic trainer, friends and family, Harry has already helped me by reducing my isolation and providing me with comfort during difficult setbacks from the brain injury.