Two concussions in one summer led to post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and a new normal for CarmenRose Fiallo. Just before her senior year of college, what was supposed to be an exciting time turned into months of recovery and uncertainty. Living with PCS and chronic migraines meant pressing pause on school and learning how to navigate a world full of triggers. 

In this heartfelt conversation, CarmenRose sits down with CLF’s Julia Manning to share her story — from the tough decision to take a semester off to the small wins and daily challenges of living with an invisible injury. She opens up about how documenting her journey on social media has helped her find community, bring visibility to the often-unseen struggles of life after concussion, and remind others that they’re not alone. 

With warmth, honesty, and hope, CarmenRose offers a powerful reminder that healing is rarely linear, and that sharing our stories can make all the difference. 

🔑 What you will hear in this episode:  

• CarmenRose’s story of sustaining two concussions in one summer and how it changed her senior year of college (1:05) 

• Realizing it was PCS and symptoms were persistent (6:45) 

• Pushing through wasn't an option (8:32) 

• Seeing a neurologist and learning to advocate for yourself (11:20) 

• Navigating a new reality and taking brain injury recovery seriously (14:49)  

• Impact on social life and personality changes (21:00) 

• Journey with chronic migraines & finding community by sharing experience online (26:15) 

• Strategies for managing symptoms & avoiding triggers (32:18) 

• Communication and honesty led to improved understanding among friends & family (38:41) 

• Healing isn’t linear & honoring your own journey (42:33) 

• Message of hope for those struggling (45:00) 

👤 About the guest: 

CarmenRose (she/her) is a queer Latina disability advocate and digital storyteller. Her work has led to features with CBS Mornings, VICE, Healthline, and more.  

CarmenRose is passionate about building community while raising awareness around her experience with Chronic Migraine and Persistent Post-Concussion Symptoms. 

Beyond her professional and advocacy work, she finds joy in long walks or bike rides through Central Park with her fiancée, a fresh set of acrylics, and catching the latest film on the big screen. 

Connect with CarmenRose: 

• Instagram: @CarmenRoseFiallo 

• TikTok: @CarmenRoseFiallo 

📞 Need support after a concussion? 

If you or a loved one is struggling after a concussion or living with post-concussion syndrome, you're not alone. The Concussion Legacy Foundation offers free resources and support through the CLF HelpLine. 

Visit CLFHelpLine.org to connect with a dedicated team member who can guide you to resources, medical referrals, and peer support tailored to your needs. 

💬 Connect with us 

• Instagram: @concussionfoundation  

• Website: ConcussionFoundation.org 

⭐ Enjoyed the episode? 

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