25/07/2025
Concussion awareness post…
I had a second concussion earlier this year. I was in denial to start with but then the symptoms slowly reminded me of my old reality.
The last concussion I had was really tough, I was raising my two little girls (then 2 & 4), on my own, while trying to navigate something I knew nothing about.
I tried all sorts to help me heal. I developed post concussion syndrome, chronic pain, gut issues and chronic fatigue alongside a neck injury that prevented me from working for 7 years as well as one of the most important things to me and my identity - fitness and sports.
I learnt a lot about life, balance, managing stress, meditation, our autonomic nervous system, anti inflammatory diets and lifestyle. I learnt how to connect with my body, listen when things were off and build back my health. I became more in tune with myself, life, my people.
I missed running, sports, weight training and part of my identity. I still do.
The thing is no one can understand what you’re going through, not unless they’ve been there themselves. No one knows how to help. You have to ask, but sometimes you don’t even know what to ask for, or it’s harder to ask and explain.
And, here I am experiencing this for a second time. My babes are currently 15 and 13, I think it’s easier with teens 🤔, the solo parenting adds another layer.
Trying to explain but knowing no one truly gets it. Wondering why this has happened. While also knowing I’ve learnt some things, and I know how to help my brain get through this.
The thing is, when you’re mostly home, spending a lot of time alone, it gets tough, you’re in your head a lot 😉
… And still my mind races into what I can do to help others get through this (because that’s who I am) but right now, I’m gonna focus on helping myself get through this.
Some days are easier than others.
If you know anyone going through a concussion/brain/neck injury, ask them how you can help, show up with a meal, help around the home, be there for them, keep things quiet/less stimulation the better (conversations can be exhausting) watch a quiet movie together… just be there, it can be a rough ride. It can be two steps forward, one step back, keep checking in.
Kylie xx