Gifting Adversity: How a Brain Injury Taught me Perseverance and How to Thrive!

March is just a few days away and that's Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the millions of people navigating life with/after a brain injury...

I wasn’t given a choice when an AVM led to a brain aneurysm on April 1, 2010. One day, I was in control. The next, my 'normal' working day changed, and it was never to be the same again. Doctors told me I wouldn’t survive long, my short term memory was gone for good, and my career was over. They handed me a future filled with limitations and depletions.

But here’s what they didn’t know: I wasn’t done yet.

Brain injuries take away, but they also reveal the unknown, a blessing, if you choose. I was stripped of control, confidence, and clarity. I lost the ability to trust my own memory, to move through life with certainty, and to see the future I had once envisioned.

Every forgotten name, every missed appointment, every frustrating moment became a test. Would I retreat such that my thinking would seek someone to blame? Would #IChoose to rise? Or would I think ahead and look at how I can overcome this!

But in losing those things, I discovered something far more powerful: resilience.

When Life Knocks You Down, Get Back Up Anyway!

I chose the later.

I chose to show up for my life, even when it felt uncomfortable and at times impossible. In doing so, I learned a truth that applies to all of us, whether you’ve had a brain injury or not:

Adversity isn’t here to break you. It’s actually here to build you. If you choose too. And if you let it.

You’re Stronger Than You Think. But Action is Needed and Only You Can Take it and Make it Happen.

Brain injuries don’t discriminate. They can happen to anyone, at any time. But whether you’ve experienced one or not, your brain health determines your future. So let’s stop waiting. Let’s take action:

1. Own Your Brain Health - Your brain is your greatest asset. Fuel it with rest, hydration, movement, and mental challenges.

2. Embrace Change – Life will throw you unexpected challenges. Instead of resisting, lean in. Growth happens in discomfort.

3. Stop Hiding, Start Living – If you’re waiting for the perfect moment to step up, trust me, it won’t come. Take action now.

#IChoose to turn adversity into my greatest advantage

#IChoose to take bold action, even when the path is not clear

#IChoose to own my story and use it to inspire people

Ready or Not, Let’s Change the Narrative

Brain health isn’t just a medical issue, it’s a human one. As a speaker, I help Organisations, Leaders, and Individuals redefine resilience, adapt to change, and take ownership of their brain health and well-being.

I’m ready to bring this conversation to your stage, your team, or your event.

Book me here: https://bit.ly/4hzo47X

This March, don’t just raise awareness.  Take action. Thriving is waiting for you. Choose to Thrive.

With Gratitude

Annabel