Mom of 18-month-old hit while running, suffers severe Brain Injury

Between The Before & After (The Stories that Shape Us)

Welcome to another episode of *Between the Before and After*. I'm your host, Coach John, and today's episode takes us on a remarkable journey of resilience, recovery, and the power of human spirit. We have the privilege of sitting down with Kristen, who shares her incredible story of overcoming a traumatic brain injury and finding hope amidst adversity. This episode is filled with insights, anecdotes, and lessons that offer a glimpse into the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved in the wake of a life-altering event.

**Episode Highlights:**

1. **A Sunrise Changed Forever:**

At the young age of 23, Kristen's life took an unexpected turn. A routine run with her husband turned into a life-changing accident that left her with a traumatic brain injury. The accident happened at sunrise, a moment that would forever alter the course of her life.

2. **The Path to Recovery:**

Kristen's journey to recovery was nothing short of inspiring. She vividly recalls the challenges she faced, from relearning basic skills like walking and talking, to dealing with the aftermath of broken bones and neurological issues. Her positive mindset and determination drove her to push forward, one step at a time.

3. **The Unbreakable Bond:**

Throughout her recovery, Kristen's husband, Raul, emerged as an unwavering pillar of support. Their bond deepened as they faced adversity together, showcasing the incredible strength that can come from such experiences. Kristen emphasizes how such challenges can strengthen relationships and create unspoken bonds.

4. **Lessons in Resilience:**

Kristen's story is a testament to the power of resilience. She shares how she approached her recovery with a forward-looking attitude, refusing to let adversity define her. Her story reminds us that setbacks can be transformed into opportunities for growth and learning.

5. **Seeking Support and Expertise:**

Navigating the complexities of recovery requires a supportive team. Kristen emphasizes the importance of having a dedicated neurologist, physical therapist, and occupational therapist. Her experience underscores the significance of seeking expert guidance to address the intricate challenges of recovery.

6. **Overcoming Adversity:**

Kristen's story isn't just about physical recovery; it's also about emotional and mental healing. She reflects on the emotional toll the accident took on her and her loved ones. Kristen's ability to find positivity amid adversity is a lesson for all of us facing challenges in our own lives.

7. **A Miracle of Love and Healing:**

Four years after the accident, Kristen welcomed her second child into the world. Her journey from despair to motherhood serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for healing and renewal. Kristen's story reminds us that life's miracles can emerge from the most unexpected places.

8. **Looking Forward:**

As we conclude this insightful conversation, Kristen's words resonate: "Live life, don't let life live you." Her story serves as an inspiration to embrace life's challenges with a courageous heart, to seek support, and to find strength in the face of adversity.

**Conclusion:**

Thank you for joining us on this emotional and uplifting episode of *Between the Before and After*. Kristen's journey from the darkest days of a traumatic brain injury to the triumph of recovery is a reminder that even in the face of the most daunting challenges, the human spirit can shine brightly. If you or someone you know is navigating a similar journey, Kristen's story offers hope, resilience, and the reminder that the impossible can become possible. Stay tuned for more stories of overcoming adversity and discovering the strength within us all.