Portrait: Kayla
Two years ago, I was hit by a motorcycle when crossing the street in New York City. I sustained a brain bleed, concussion, and whiplash.
A little bit about Kayla
My name is Kayla. I am a brain injury survivor and recovery advocate. Two years ago, I was hit by a motorcycle when crossing the street in New York City. I sustained a brain bleed, concussion, and whiplash.
I had no cognitive deficits, but immediately began experiencing severe and chronic headaches, dizziness, and vestibular issues.
My empowering recovery
I was treated by physical therapists, concussion specialists, vestibular therapists, neurologists, functional neurologists, integrative medicine practitioners, and pain specialists.
My clinical team not only returned me to myself but inspired my new course of life.
Through guidance, I became determined to learn how it was possible that I had survived and how my brain had the ability to heal completely with the correct attention and care.
Studying neuroscience
Two years studying neuroscience has taught me that it is possible to rebuild myself and return to a life that is not dictated by pain.
I am a professional journalist, writer, and have become an active educator and advocate for brain injury recovery.
Advice to other survivors
Survivors, please trust yourself when you decide that you will be whole again.
I have decided that my injury will not be my story. I will write my own.