Brain injuries, specifically concussions, have affected many of my friends, family, and teammates, including myself. I used to be the person who would try and be “tough” by playing through a potential concussion, but I now know the importance of speaking up when symptoms arise immediately.
As an athlete, I suffered my fair share of sports-related concussions throughout high school and college. After graduating college and moving down to Charlotte, NC to train with the Women's National Team in January of 2022, I was in what I thought was a minor car accident. However, for over a year, I struggled through the impact of yet another concussion — worse than any before. Symptoms of brain fog, extreme fatigue, headaches, heightened anxiety, and eye strain affected all tasks that I used to consider easy and part of my daily routine. I could not even fathom running or playing contact sports as a thirty second jog would leave me with a splitting headache for hours.
After many hours of vestibular and exertion therapy and thanks to my care team at UPMC, I was able to make a full recovery one year later.
BIANYS, also known as the Brain Injury Association of New York State, is a non-profit specifically focused on support and advocacy for those impacted by brain injury, as well as their friends and family. The organization also uses its resources to educate people on the effects of brain injury and has the key focus of prevention.
I am grateful that I had the access and resources to be seen at the top concussion center in the United States, but I know not all are afforded that opportunity. I am excited to get back to running in a big way and accomplish my goal of running a marathon. I am thankful for everyone that has supported me along the way, and I am proud to run alongside so many strong runners for BIANYS to support all those affected by brain injuries. Thank you in advance for all of your support - it means the world to me!
