08/22/2024
In March of 2021 I suffered a concussion after being hit in the back of the head by a volleyball at work. The effects of the blow started two days later, with an extreme sensitivity to light and sound, fogginess, inability to focus on complex tasks and confusing feelings of anxiety. The darkest times persisted for six months, and I had to reduce my workload to part-time hours to manage the headaches and fatigue. That summer, my mother and I had planned to hike in the Rocky Mountains, a trip she had done several times as the camp musician. My physiotherapist, who started working with me on an intensive concussion therapy program in June, strongly advised me against the trip. His advice was to focus on the three Pās of my therapy program: Patience, Pacing and Persistence.
It has been over three years since my injury, and I still have some lingering symptoms. This photo of my mom and me hiking in the Stubai region of Austria encourages me in my progress and recovery. About one year after my accident, we flew through Germany and Austria, took part in guided hikes through the region and ascended the Stubai glacier. We followed the beginner trail, took rest breaks and kept a moderate hiking pace. This was an incredible journey from the previous summer, when I had to wear sunglasses indoors and could only walk 5 minutes on the treadmill.
This makes me think of my āreluctant leadersā, who I am guiding to find the ways they can serve their community with their interests and abilities. Taking one small step in their leadership journey moves them forward in confidence and experience.
In September I am returning to full-time work for the first time in three years. I plan to take rest times throughout the day to give my brain a chance to adjust. Working full-time is my new mountain, and the view at the top will be worth the climb. That, along with a good coffee and nice pastry.
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