Introduction: Faith and Perseverance as a TBI Survivor
Dear Reader, my name is Karen Menz, and I am a Traumatic Brain Injury survivor. Each day presents its challenges, but through my unwavering faith in God, I find the strength to overcome. As a survivor, my story reflects both the struggles and triumphs that come with living after a TBI.
The Onset of My Journey as a Traumatic Brain Injury Survivor
My journey with traumatic brain injury began in childhood with a severe truck accident, leading to numerous stitches from the top of my head to the bottom. Over the years, I endured various incidents, including physical abuse, a training accident at Officer Candidate School, and a significant brain tumor in my frontal lobe, which required surgery. The subsequent road accidents, including a severe one on September 28th, 2015, compounded my brain injuries.
Living in a Protective Bubble
Post-injury life often feels like living in a protective bubble. My bubble is fortified with prayer and faith in Jesus Christ. To an onlooker, I might seem perfectly normal, engaging in everyday activities. However, what is normal? For me, it’s about adapting to a new ‘average’, managing a delayed response time, and finding ways to stay connected and engaged with others.
The Reality of Being a Traumatic Brain Injury Survivor
My earlier years were marked by leadership and motivation, especially during my 24 years of service in the Army National Guard. Despite my TBI, I strived to share my gifts and inspire others. Now, I want to reach out to fellow survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury, stroke, or related conditions to say: You are not alone. My mission is to offer support, create a community on Facebook for those affected, and remind you that you are loved and valued.
Conclusion: Offering Support and Coaching
As a Traumatic Brain Injury survivor, I understand the unique challenges and barriers we face. My goal is to coach and guide others to a more fulfilling life, leveraging my experiences to provide support and encouragement.
