In 2013 I suffered an anoxic brain injury. I started making art soon after. Art became my way of healing through my life and brain changing. Art gave me a direction in life. I took art classes and spent many long hours in my studio. My first exhibition was called brain texture because I realized a lot of the imagery, I was creating looked similar to a brain. Creating became my purpose. I like to work with multiple mediums such as acrylics, oils, texture and charcoal. I have found that my brain enjoys the challenge of new mediums and using inventive practices. I have made a life for myself while still struggling with my disability. I am constantly amazed by how my brain keeps growing and healing.
I’d like to give hope to those who are at the beginning of their brain injury journey. It’s okay to accept that things are different and that in many ways life is harder. Your healing is not limited to a timeline. I have been able to accomplish big life goals 5 to10 years out from my injury, so many things that I was not able to do or even thought would be possible for me right after my injury. Don’t give up on yourself or your brain. Love yourself and try to find ways to love your brain. In many ways it is your partner in this life even though some days it may feel like your greatest adversary. So be kind to your brain, you both have been through so much.
