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Introduction
This is the episode we have been searching for! We highly recommend it for anyone struggling to get the recovery results they hope for post brain injury. In today’s episode, Aaron Cloutier, Doctor of Chiropractics and Anna Blash an Upledger trained craniosacral therapist, massage therapist, and somatoemotional release expert guide us on alternative treatments that actually work! The two of them specialize in assisting brain injured folks in their healing. This is a content heavy episode, but offers a wealth of knowledge and education that will help you recover. It is worth the listen, even if it takes you a few sessions to get through the whole thing. Take notes and reach out to them for more information.
Summary
In this episode, Aaron Cloutier and Anna Blash, a brain injury power couple
specializing in brain management and craniosacral therapy, discuss the anatomy
and physiology of concussions, the role of supplementation in the healing
process, and the intricacies of craniosacral therapy. They highlight the
importance of understanding the spinal dynamics and cranial vault in relation
to concussions and how chiropractic and craniosacral therapy can be
complementary treatments. The conversation touches on supplementation, the need
for individualized dosing, and the importance of consulting with healthcare
professionals when incorporating supplements into a treatment plan. They also
touch on the importance of rest and the integration of body, mind, and spirit
in the healing process. Anna shares case studies that highlight the power of
somatoemotional release in craniosacral therapy. They emphasize the individual
nature of healing and the need for a holistic approach that addresses the
physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery.
Keywords
concussion management, craniosacral therapy, anatomy, physiology, supplementation, spinal dynamics, cranial vault, chiropractic, craniosacral therapist, magnesium, fish oil, inflammation, dosing, healthcare professionals, healing, traumatic brain injury, rest, integration, somatoemotional release
Takeaways
Understanding the anatomy and physiology of concussions is crucial in developing effective treatment protocols.
Chiropractic and craniosacral therapy can be complementary treatments for concussions and all brain injury types, addressing both spinal dynamics and cranial vault issues.
Magnesium supplementation is important for brain health and energy production, and
magnesium glycinate is a well-absorbed form to consider.
Fish oil, particularly DHA, is neuroprotective and supports brain health, but it's
important to choose a high-quality brand that is third-party tested.
Supplementation should be individualized and discussed with healthcare professionals,
especially when taking other medications.
Craniosacral therapy is a light touch whole body treatment technique that supports and
nourishes the central nervous system, reducing pain, stress, and enhancing health and wellbeing.
Somatoemotional release is a component of craniosacral therapy that focuses on releasing emotional energy stored in the body, which can have a profound impact on
healing from traumatic brain injuries.
Rest is crucial for healing from brain injuries, and it is important to find ways to
achieve true rest and relaxation, such as through meditation, painting,
gardening, or other activities that bring a sense of grounding and stillness.
Healing from brain injuries requires a holistic approach that addresses the physical,
emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery, and it is important to find
practitioners who have extensive training and experience in craniosacral
therapy.
The integration of body, mind, and spirit is essential for healing, and the
recognition and release of emotional trauma can have a profound impact on the
healing process.
Sound Bites
"One of the biggest {risk factors for concussion} ones being falls, which most people don't even think of getting your head checked out for that."
"Magnesium is one of the keys of the links here that is not only protective pre-concussion, but also helps in the protocols for healing."
"Craniosacral therapy is a light touch whole body treatment technique"
"Healing from brain injuries requires a holistic approach"
"Rest is crucial for healing from brain injuries"
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Background of Erin and Anna Cloutier
03:33
Understanding the Anatomy and Physiology of Concussions
07:43
The Complementary Role of Chiropractic and Craniosacral Therapy
14:45
The Importance of Magnesium Supplementation for Brain Health
21:47
Individualized Dosing and Consultation with Healthcare Professionals
29:28
Introduction to Craniosacral Therapy
36:41 The
Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
52:37 The
Importance of Rest in Healing
57:41 The
Integration of Body, Mind, and Spirit
01:00:23 The
Power of Somatoemotional Release
01:02:05 A
Holistic Approach to Healing
Reach out to:
Aaron Cloutier, Chiropractor and supplementation guy: [email protected]
Anna Blash, craniosacral and somatoemotional release therapist: [email protected]
Eryn on IG @eryn_makingheadwaypodcast
Alison on IG @alison_maknigheadwayodcast
MHP on IG @makingheadwaypodcast
Go to our website www.makingheadwaypodcast.com for full show notes and resources
Support us at:
Patreon
Donate section on our website.
Did you know, 10% of people in the US under the age of 45 experience having a stroke? In this episode, Alison and Eryn interview of childhood survivor of AVM rupture, Andrew Penarubia. Andrew is the one and only intern for Making Headway Podcast. His claim to fame didn’t start there though. Since being left with only one fully functioning hand he has taught himself how to game, play instruments, and sink threes on the court. Being such a young survivor, Andrew grew up with different abilities; many saw his strengths but some chose to bully his weaknesses. He speaks to the challenges of growing up different while providing light and hope. Stay tuned until the end as he showcases his one-handed ukulele skills, doing the first live musical performance MHP has ever had.
Keywords
AVM, survivor, intern, gaming, physical disabilities, hospital, support, school, brain injury, stroke, recovery, walking, disability, social life, bullies, music, faith, inspiration
Takeaways
Sound Bites
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Andrew's Background
01:36Surviving AVM and Gaming with One Hand
07:19The Power of Support and Prayer
12:06Hospital Experience and Rehabilitation
17:25Returning to School and Overcoming Challenges
19:19The Shock of the Stroke and the Road to Recovery
20:11Dealing with Bullies and Finding Support
23:14Gaining Movement and Discovering Passions
26:18Music and Faith: Sources of Inspiration
32:07Andrew's Musical Talent: Playing with One Hand
Reach out to:
Andrew on IG @just4uke
Andrew on You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@LeftOutie
Eryn on IG @eryn_makingheadwaypodcast
Alison on IG @alison_maknigheadwayodcast
MHP on IG @makingheadwaypodcast
Go to our website www.makingheadwaypodcast.com for full show notes and resources
Feeling isolated after your diagnosis? Finding your tribe is life altering and tremendously helpful in facilitating your treatment and recovery from brain surgery and bleeds. TAAF is The Aneurysm and AVM Foundation, a foundation focused on supporting brain bleed survivors, grieving families, caregivers, and research. In this episode, Eryn interviews Dina Chon, the executive director of TAAF. The two discuss the mission and work of TAAF which supports individuals who have experienced brain bleeds and provide resources and information to the community.
Summary
Dina shares the history of the TAAF Foundation and how it has grown over the years. They also talk about the importance of acknowledging and embracing all emotions, not just happiness, in the healing process. In this conversation, Dina Chon discusses her personal experience with her mother's brain aneurysm and how it led her to leading The Aneurysm and AVM Foundation. She shares the importance of support groups and the impact they can have on survivors and their families. Dina also highlights the various programs and resources offered by TAAF, including brain buddies, fundraising events, and research grants. She emphasizes the power of community and the role of TAAF in providing support, education, and advocacy for those affected by brain aneurysms and AVMs.
Keywords
brain bleeds, Aneurysm and AVM Foundation, TAAF, support, resources, emotions, healing, brain aneurysm, AVM, support groups, TAAF, The Aneurysm and AVM Foundation, brain buddies, fundraising events, research grants, community, support, education, advocacy
Takeaways
The Aneurysm and AVM Foundation (TAAF) is an organization that supports individuals who have experienced brain bleeds and provides resources and information to the community.
TAAF was founded by a neurosurgeon and his nurse who wanted to do more for patients beyond medical treatment.
TAAF offers support groups and resources for individuals and families affected by brain bleeds.
It is important to acknowledge and embrace all emotions, not just happiness, in the healing process. Support groups can provide a sense of community and understanding for survivors and their families.
The Aneurysm and AVM Foundation (TAAF) offers various programs and resources, including brain buddies, fundraising events, and research grants.
TAAF focuses on research, programming, and providing support to survivors and their families.
Fundraising is essential for TAAF to continue its work in supporting and advocating for those affected by brain aneurysms and AVMs.
Getting involved with TAAF, whether through fundraising or participating in support groups, allows individuals to give back and help others in the community.
Sound Bites
"If it bleeds, TAAF leads."
"I would literally program myself to work all day and help people 24 hours."
"I am non-robot for sure."
"My mom was lying in the bathroom. She'd gotten up to use the restroom, I'm assuming, and she'd ruptured."
"She opens her eyes and she looks at me and she tells me she loves me. And she passes out and she dies."
"We're going to be like you."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Starting the Conversation
03:19
The History and Growth of TAF
08:03
Dina's Journey to TAF
12:16
The Role of TAF in Serving the Community
14:24
Embracing All Emotions in the Healing Process
18:04
Supporting Individuals at Every Stage
22:54
Personal Experience with Brain Aneurysm
28:44
The Importance of Support Groups
32:40
Programs and Resources Offered by TAF
36:53
Fundraising for Research and Support
45:17
Getting Connected with TAF
Reach out to
Eryn on IG @eryn_makingheadwaypodcast
Alison on IG @alison_maknigheadwayodcast
MHP on IG @makingheadwaypodcast
TAAF on IG TAFF_org
https://taafonline.org/
Go to our website www.makingheadwaypodcast.com for full show notes and resources
Support us at
Patreon
Donate section on our website.
Summary
Did you know there are more than 5.3 million individuals in the U.S who are living with a permanent brain injury-related disability? That's 1 in every 60 people. In today's episode, Eryn updates everyone on where she has been and how she has been doing over the past few years. She shares with us her struggle with depression, the impact of Covid-19 on her symptoms, and her journey finding peace and serenity post-brain trauma. Further on, we have Alison who shares her experiences with anxiety, finding tranquility in nature, and the role of faith in guiding her journey. Both Eryn and Alison discuss their experiences with nature, spirituality, and the serendipitous connection that brought them together. They also share their challenges with healthcare, the importance of gratitude, and the need for self-advocacy in their recovery journeys.
Keywords
brain injury, depression, COVID-19, serenity, peace, nature, anxiety, coping, faith, nature, spirituality, serendipity, healthcare challenges, gratitude, self-advocacy, recovery journey
Takeaways
Living with a brain injury involves ongoing challenges and adjustments, including managing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
The impact of COVID-19 on brain injury symptoms can be significant, leading to a resurgence of cognitive and physical challenges.
Finding serenity and peace after a brain injury often involves exploring new hobbies and activities, such as spending time in nature and engaging in relaxing experiences.
The role of faith and spirituality can play a significant part in guiding the journey of recovery and adaptation after a brain injury. Nature serves as a source of peace and spiritual connection for Eryn and Alison.
The serendipitous connection between Eryn and Alison has been a significant support in their recovery journeys.
Challenges with the healthcare system have led Eryn and Alison to prioritize self-advocacy and explore alternative approaches to healing.
Gratitude plays a crucial role in finding happiness and appreciation for the simpler things in life.
Sound Bites
"I'm more at peace and find the tranquility and the serenity that I need, that I crave, like in nature, outside..."
"Nature's more like my religion, I would say, than going to church or doing something more formal."
"It was God, the universe, whatever you want to believe, higher power, um, agnostic. It was nothing. It was just us finding each other."
"Gratitude is the key to happiness."
Chapters
00:00
Finding Serenity and Peace After a Brain Injury
26:23
Nature's Spiritual Connection
30:00
Serendipitous Connections and Support
40:03
Navigating Healthcare Challenges
Reach out to:
Support us at:
49:48
The Power of Gratitude and Self-Advocacy
Intro
Welcome Back! Season Three is starting strong with a kick ass survivor and our new co-host Alison House. In today's episode, both Alison and Eryn go over their experiences as well as the many obstacles they face as stroke survivors. They share their experiences on how standing firm in their faith, showing gratitude, and spending time in nature along with engaging in relaxing activities, all played huge roles in their cognitive as well as mental recovery from brain bleeds.
Summary
Alison shares her experience of having a brain aneurysm and the symptoms she experienced leading up to it. She discusses her time in the hospital, including being in the ICU and the challenges she faced during her recovery. Alison also talks about the support she received from her loved ones and the impact the experience had on her relationship with her son. She mentions the medical procedures she underwent and the ongoing symptoms she continues to deal with. I
n this conversation, Alison and Eryn discuss their experiences with brain injuries and the challenges they faced during their recoveries. They talk about the symptoms they experienced, such as brain fog and memory loss, and the impact it had on their daily lives. They also discuss the importance of self-advocacy and finding support during the recovery process. Alison shares how her faith and connection with nature helped her find strength and inner peace. Overall, the conversation highlights the resilience and determination of individuals living with brain injuries.
Keywords
brain aneurysm, perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage, symptoms, hospital, ICU, recovery, support, medical procedures, ongoing symptoms, brain injury, recovery, symptoms, brain fog, memory loss, self-advocacy, support, faith, nature, resilience
Takeaways
• Symptoms of a brain bleed can include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and changes in vision.
• Recovery from a brain bleed can involve time in the ICU and step-down units, as well as physical therapy.
• Having a strong support system, including loved ones and healthcare professionals, is crucial during the recovery process.
• Medical procedures such as angiograms may be used to diagnose and treat brain aneurysms and other types of bleeds
• Ongoing symptoms such as memory loss, brain fog, and sensitivity to light and sound can persist after a brain bleed. Brain fog is a common symptom of brain injury, characterized by a fuzzy and staticky feeling in the mind.
• Self-advocacy is crucial during the recovery process, as individuals may need to seek out appropriate care and support.
• Finding support from friends, family, and community organizations can greatly impact the recovery journey.
• Connecting with nature and finding inner strength can help individuals navigate the challenges of brain injury.
• Resilience and determination are key in overcoming the physical and emotional obstacles of brain injury.
Sound Bites
• "I'm so excited to be your new co-host and just looking forward to all of our adventures and episodes and looking really forward to sharing my story with everyone today."
• "I had some headaches that didn't go away. A lot of fatigue to the point where I was napping daily, which I'm normally not a napper."
• "The day of my bleed was a pretty typical day. I had gone to the gym. I just did a little light workout, nothing strenuous."
• "It's sort of like having the black and white television on, but where the channels don't work, like that channel that doesn't come in, it's all just like fuzzy and staticky. That's brain fog."
• "I think it's a big, it's a big, it's being used a lot with COVID. People keep talking about, I have brain fog, I have brain fog. And everyone's like, yeah, I have brain fog. But I don't think people really understand what it is."
• "I can't do that. I have all of these symptoms that we just talked about, the fog, the memory, the fatigue, the irritability, the photo and sound sensitivity."
Chapters
00:00The Journey: From Symptoms to Diagnosis
06:03Navigating the Hospital: ICU and Step-Down Units
09:02The Importance of Support During Recovery
27:23Dealing with Ongoing Symptoms
29:14Understanding Brain Fog and Memory Loss
31:18Challenges in the Hospital and Transitioning Home
34:06The Importance of Self-Advocacy
36:13The Role of Support and Caregivers
38:05Finding Resources for Recovery
39:40Discovering Inner Strength and Faith
43:05Exploring Nature and Finding Peace
45:21Embracing a Modified Life and Resilience
49:17Reflecting on the Journey and Growth
52:23The Power of Faith and Inner Strength
55:27Choosing Resilience and Overcoming Obstacles
58:37Building Community and Finding Support
Connect with us
@makingheadwaypodcast
@alison_makingheadwaypodcast
@eryn_makingheadwaypodcast
https://www.makingheadwaypodcast.com/
Summary
Season 3 of the Making Headway podcast is about to begin!! Fun things are in store as there is a new co-host joining Eryn. Welcome Alison House! Both Eryn and Alison are brain injury survivors and nurses, bringing a unique perspective to the show. They will continue to interview brain injury survivors who have achieved amazing things in their lives, as well as practitioners who can provide resources and support. The hosts emphasize the importance of community and reaching out for help. The podcast aims to inspire and bring hope to others who have experienced brain injuries.
Keywords
brain injury, podcast, co-host, nurses, survivors, community, resources, support, inspiration, hope
Takeaways
Titles
Sound Bites
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Announcement of Season 3
04:24
The Focus on Brain Injury Survivors
10:15
Encouraging Others to Move Forward
Our last episode of the podcast is definitely not the least! We’ve heard from so many of our listeners and have personally experienced just how much brain injuries can affect our mental health. From overstimulation to irritability; emotionality to anxiety; impulsiveness to depression; brain injuries really change how our minds work! In this episode, BrainStorm for Brain Injury’s Dr. Judy Gooch and Tyanne Crook talk about mental health post injury and where you can go for help. I know I was nodding right along with this one and raising my hand. This episode really helped me feel less alone, maybe it will for you too!
Links to any resources mentioned:
Reach out to:
Support us at:
Donate section on our website. 10% of profits go to our favorite non-profit of the moment
Are you looking for community post brain injury? Are you trying to develop and become the new you? Do you need support? Look no further than Heal the Brain. Heal the Brain is a non profit offering active, virtual experiences that empower survivors with practical resources and social support. Through their workshops, Heal the Brain connects brain injury survivors and their caregivers with skilled clinicians and survivor mentors.
In this episode, founder Jane Connely explains all this amazing community has to offer to help you connect, grow, develop, and live life fully post injury. This is a resource that you won’t want to miss out on. Listen today to learn more!
Links to Resources mentioned:
Support us at:
HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!
We are a podcast for brain injury survivors by brain injury survivors. If you dug this episode head on over to Apple Podcasts and kindly leave us a rating, a review and subscribe!
Ways to subscribe to the Making Headway Podcast:
Visit the Making Headway Podcast website to learn more about Eryn and Mariah and our journey to podcasting.
Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!
If you dug this episode, kindly leave us a rating, a review, and subscribe!
Visit the Making Headway Podcast website at www.makingheadwaypodcast.com to learn more about Eryn and Mariah and our journey to podcasting.
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/makingheadwaypodcast
Follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/makingheadwaypodcast
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/makingheadwaypo
As an Amazon Associate, Making Headway may earn from qualifying purchases via links provided.
Recovering from post concussion symptoms? Then we don’t need to tell you how challenging that can be. Melissa Biscardi, osteopath and registered nurse joins us from the Rehab Lab to talk about recovery. In her practice, she focuses on treating concussion through movement, vestibular training, nutrition, and mental health. Listen to learn about treatment, common myths, and what to do instead.
Links to any resources mentioned:
Support us at:
After your brain injury, have you felt scarred by the medical community? Do you feel yourself pulling away from others, having intrusive thoughts, avoiding medical appointments, having increased anxiety about your health, or having trouble focusing on your appointments? You may be experiencing Medical PTSD.
In today’s episode we have Emily Parks who is a patient advocate, behavioral health specialist, and founder of POP! Medical PTSD. POP! provides a safe space to validate your experience and learn more about what others are doing to overcome medical PTSD. Emily is groundbreaking in developing the definition of medical PTSD and increasing awareness that people can become traumatized by going through the healthcare system or by experiencing a medical event. She gives advice on communicating with healthcare providers and getting through trauma. Listen today to learn more about this important topic!
Reach out to:
Support us at:
HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!
We are a podcast for brain injury survivors by brain injury survivors. If you dug this episode head on over to Apple Podcasts and kindly leave us a rating, a review and subscribe!
Ways to subscribe to the Making Headway Podcast:
Visit the Making Headway Podcast website to learn more about Eryn and Mariah and our journey to podcasting.
Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!
If you dug this episode, kindly leave us a rating, a review, and subscribe!
Visit the Making Headway Podcast website at www.makingheadwaypodcast.com to learn more about Eryn and Mariah and our journey to podcasting.
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/makingheadwaypodcast
Follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/makingheadwaypodcast
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/makingheadwaypo
As an Amazon Associate, Making Headway may earn from qualifying purchases via links provided.
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