Wednesday 27 June 2018

Concussion Part 5: Out of the Woods

I've made it. I actually feel like I am finally back to my normal self.
It's taken over a year and a lot of hard work and a lot of support from family and friends but I've made it.

The things that made a difference:

My family - My children who put up with the tears, the confusion and the changes in our lives and supported me while having to deal with their own lives. Mum and JJ - without whom I would not have managed - the transport, the listening to my ranting, and my frustrations. I love you so much.

My work - the understanding from them that I needed to take time to come back slowly and make sure I wasn't going backwards at any stage. Haeata is an amazing place to work and I really appreciate all they did to get me back on track.

My friends - those of you who encouraged me, listened to my ranting, gave advice, supported me, and also to those that have taken an interest in learning more about how difficult concussion can be.

Meditation - I truly believe that this has been the reason I have managed to go back to work full time this year. Doing this every morning has made all the difference to my head. Thanks Rudy for starting me on this journey.

My hard work - it's not easy. I have had to learn how to stop doing things and take a step back. I have had to learn to say no more often. I have had to acknowledge that I couldn't do things and that I had to take time for myself. My previous blogs have given a bit of insight, but it's been damn hard. I would not wish it on anyone. I've been through a lot of things in my life and this is right up there with cancer and depression. I know it's a bit clichéd but it's made me who I am and I am stronger for it. I hope that these blogs can help others during their journeys, as I know I appreciated the help of those that had been in this position before me.

The first 2 terms this year have been amazing as I have slowly come right - I love my work and my family and I am so excited by what I have been involved in so far and what is coming up for me.

Life is good.

Bring it on.