#226 The ICU: The Power of an ICU Nurse with Allison Butler

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. This season, you'll be captivated by raw and real-life experiences, from the initial injury through the arduous recovery, showcasing not just survival but the quest for a better, thriving new normal.

Our next guest is Allison Butler, a dedicated ICU nurse whose compassion and expertise go beyond medical care. In the fast-paced ICU, Allison is not only a guardian of life, providing critical support to patients in their most vulnerable moments, but also a source of warmth and humanity. Her empathy and ability to forge genuine connections set her apart.

One remarkable connection was with Dianne, our chapter 2 hero. Despite the clinical nature of their interactions, Allison and Dianne discovered shared interests and personal stories, forming a profound bond that highlights the impact of compassionate care on the healing process.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#225 The ICU: Through the Eyes of the SCI Patient: with Dianne Vitkus - Part II

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. 

Welcome to part 2 of Dianne Vitkus’ story in Chapter Two of the SCI Journey: the ICU. In this episode, we delve into practical tips for supporting individuals with high spinal cord injuries in the ICU, focusing on the roles of medical professionals, families, and friends. Louise and Dianne discuss creating a healing sanctuary and how to create a community energy field to aid in trauma healing and recovery. Dianne emphasizes that the trauma of SCI affects the entire circle of family and friends, not just the injured person.

We’ll explore best practices from ICU care to early physical therapy, including what goes into a decision on where to rehab such as at Spaulding Rehab Center in Boston.  The episode also features a vulnerable conversation on women's health and concludes with tender reflections on faith and spirituality, for those navigating the emotional and psychological challenges of SCI.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BaltimoreMediation.com, www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about Skills Training and Relational advocacy and mediation for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#224 The ICU: Through The Eyes of The SCI Patient with Dianne Vitkus - Part 1

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. 

In today’s episode, we hear from Dianne Vitkus, SCI C6 complete quadriplegia, about her early days in the ICU of a Level 1 Hospital. What matters most to a patient? What can staff learn to change a life? What role to friends and family play in the shock and overwhelm of SCI? You’ll hear it from the mouth of a health care professional who found herself on the other side of the equation as a trauma patient. Dianne was a Neuro Trauma Physician Assistant now an SCI mentor, ambassador, and advocate. Now a member of the Blink of an Eye SCI Navigation Team, her goals are to create community, instill hope, and spread joy for other Spinal cord injured people and their families.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BaltimoreMediation.com, www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about Skills Training in Relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or crisis, visit www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediator self-awareness. 

#223 The Integrative Perspective For Emotional Pain with Dr. Delia Chiaramonte

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. 

In today’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Delia Chiarmonte, a family doctor turned integrative health specialist based in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Chiarmonte is the founder of the Integrative Palliative Institute and the former Division Chief of Integrative Palliative Medicine at Greater Baltimore Medical Center.

Dr. Chiarmonte provides an inside look at the profound impacts of trauma and catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord injuries. She discusses the importance of thinking beyond the physical stabilization of the body, emphasizing the critical need to stabilize and support the family system as well. Drawing from her extensive experience, Dr. Chiarmonte shares valuable insights on how integrative palliative care can enhance the quality of life for both patients and their families during these challenging times.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BaltimoreMediation.com, www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about Skills Training and Relational advocacy and mediation for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#222 The Rescue: Arrival at a Trauma Center through the eyes of a Neuro Trauma Surgeon with Dr. Bizhan Aarabi

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. 

From the moment of injury, every moment teeters on the edge of life and death for high spine injuries, where the experience of medical experts like Dr. Aarabi is not only critical but lifesaving. We have witnessed the orchestrated chaos behind the scenes of SCI rescues, where swift action is taken to save the lives of those enduring spinal cord injuries. In this episode we are taken behind the scenes to what happens upon arrival at a renowned trauma center.

Through Dr. Aarabi's dedication to his patients and tireless efforts in SCI research and education, he shares invaluable lessons for SCI families and medical teams navigating the complexities of SCI trauma and holding hope in the face of catastrophic injury.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more and to make a donation, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BaltimoreMediation.com, www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about Skills Training in Relational advocacy and mediation for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit  www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram of Personality for mediator self-awareness.

#221 The Rescue: Unyielding Support with Aime Mckale

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. This season, you'll be captivated by raw and real-life experiences, from the initial injury through the arduous recovery, showcasing not just survival but the quest for a better, thriving new normal.

Our guest today is the strong and courageous Aime Mckale, wife of Bryan Anderson. Aime embodies resilience and unwavering support, showing what it truly means to stand by family through times of crisis and beyond, through both light and dark.  This episode provides a raw look at her family's experience when the medical team presented the option of "Death with Dignity" to their SCI Dad. As a mom and an unflinching rock for her family, Aime's strength and incredible story offer valuable lessons for us all. She will share her unique perspective on Bryan's injury and trauma experience, providing insight into their journey and the profound impact it has had on their lives.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#220 The Rescue: True Guardians with Larry Merrifield and Mike Gillespie

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. This season, you'll be captivated by raw and real-life experiences, from the initial injury through the arduous recovery, showcasing not just survival but the quest for a better, thriving new normal.

In today’s episode, we will talk with Mike Gillespie and Larry Merrifield, lifeguards and EMS rescuers from the Ocean City Maryland Beach Patrol. They will share their firsthand experiences of what happens behind the scenes during an SCI rescue in the United States.

We'll learn how each of us can develop muscle memory to respond effectively to crises by rehearsing, even if we never actually experience one. You might be the one to assist in an SCI rescue, and today you'll gain valuable insights into what to do.

Additionally, we'll explore how SCIs impact EMS workers, who can carry the emotional weight of these experiences for life. Acute spinal cord injuries are catastrophic events that affect many people beyond the SCI family.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye

Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#219 The Rescue: Strength and Fortitude at a Young Age With Edward Anderson

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. This season, you'll be captivated by raw and real-life experiences, from the initial injury through the arduous recovery, showcasing not just survival but the quest for a better, thriving new normal.

Today, we have a rare chance to hear the perspective of a teenager who became the first responder for his father during a holiday in Nicaragua. Edward Anderson, hailing from British Columbia, performed this remarkable rescue at just 15 years old. Despite being born with a rare disability himself, Edward demonstrated extraordinary courage and presence of mind in the face of a harrowing situation in a third-world country.

Join us for a tender conversation with this insightful young man as he shares his extraordinary experience of rescuing his father and the profound lessons he learned. Through his support for his father, Ed exemplifies the power of perseverance, the courage to reflect on life’s challenges, and the importance of trusting one's intuition. His story teaches us to see challenges as opportunities for growth and to value human life, no matter how altered by SCI.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non- Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#218 The Rescue: Redefining Life's Purpose with Bryan Anderson

Welcome to Season 5 of Blink of an Eye, where we delve into the transformative journey from trauma to resilience for those with spinal cord injuries. This season, you'll be captivated by the raw and real-life experiences, from the initial injury through the arduous recovery, showcasing not just survival but the quest for a better, thriving new normal.

In our premiere episode, we introduce you to Bryan, a dedicated father from Victoria, British Columbia. An avid ski guide and carpenter contractor, Bryan's life took an unexpected turn on April 16, 2023. While on vacation with his family in the Corn Islands off Nicaragua, a freak accident while body surfing resulted in a devastating ASIA C4 complete injury. His story is not just about the accident but about the heroic actions of his 15-year-old son, Edward, who saved him from drowning, and the unwavering support of his family. Join us as we explore Bryan's remarkable journey and the crucial role of family connections in navigating the path to recovery and resilience.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#216 Revisiting The Blink of an Eye Story: The ABC Board

As we gear up for an exciting new story driven season, we are taking a look back at our most popular and moving episodes. Exciting, new things are coming. Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye Non Profit: a non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families and medical teams in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families and medical teams. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 30 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours and days after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast, visit the websites www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  BaltimoreMediation.com,www.BeingRelational.com, and www.BlinkofanEye.org.

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators, leaders, and trauma Navigators to know themselves.