My journey with post-concussion syndrome hasn’t been a straight path—it’s been marked by pain, frustration, and resilience. Over the years, I’ve experienced eight concussions, some from sports injuries, every day bumps on the head and others from car crashes that left me shaken in more ways than one. Each time, I thought recovery would be straightforward. Each time, I learned just how invisible and misunderstood brain injuries can be.

What made it harder wasn’t just the symptoms—though the brain aches, neck pain, memory lapses, and brain fog were relentless—it was the feeling of being disregarded by medical professionals. Too often I was told I was fine, that I should “just rest,” or that my struggles weren’t as serious as they felt. To be dismissed in moments of such vulnerability was devastating. It left me questioning myself, when what I really needed was compassion and understanding.

Then came a turning point: the Hruska Clinic. For the first time, I wasn’t brushed aside. I was heard, validated, and understood. They didn’t just focus on isolated symptoms—they looked at my whole body, recognizing that post-concussion syndrome impacts everything from posture to breathing to how the eyes and jaw function together.

What set them apart was their integrative approach. They worked with me on visual integration, addressing how my eyes and brain were struggling to work in sync. They helped me explore dental integration, recognizing how my bite and jaw position influenced not only my headaches but also my overall body alignment. And with orthotic support, they corrected imbalances that were affecting the way I walked, moved, and even processed sensory information. For the first time, every part of my body was part of the conversation—and for the first time, I felt real progress.

That experience changed everything. It showed me what true, patient-centered care looks like, and it gave me the tools I needed to begin healing. More importantly, it lit a fire in me to offer that same level of care and compassion to others.

Today, as a provider at the Hruska Clinic, I carry both my lived experience and the lessons I learned along the way. I know firsthand the isolation, frustration, and uncertainty of post concussion syndrome, but I also know the relief of being heard and the power of comprehensive treatment. My mission is to bridge that gap—to ensure that no one feels invisible, and that each patient knows their recovery is possible.

My transition from patient to provider is about honoring the journey I’ve lived and using it to guide others forward. And most importantly, it’s about reminding anyone struggling with post concussion syndrome: you are not alone.