Hi, Im a survivor and I'm celebrating five years of being alive after a ruptured brain aneurysm. This post is meant for survivors, trauma victims and those that support them.  In this post, I'll be sharing my story and things I’ve done to get trough one of the darkest times in my life. I always want to hear more so please share any ideas you have. If you're going through a tough time right now, don't give up. There's always hope.
I have a newfound appreciation for life that can never be taken away from me. This is more than just simply counting time — this is reflecting on how much of an incredible journey it's been! With this milestone comes mixed emotions: excitement, reflection and so much gratitude for all who have aided me along the way. It has truly been filled with endless hope and immense progress throughout these years.  Looking back, I’m realizing the things I did that led me in the right direction.
I wanted to share this special day with you all. Five years ago, I was rushed to the hospital after a ruptured brain aneurysm and was given just a few hours to live. But I survived and am celebrating five years of being alive! This video is about showing you that no matter how bad things seem right now, there's always hope for a better tomorrow. Stay strong and never give up!
Looking back these are the things I found that helped me begin to find happiness and healing. It has nothing to do with medical we have to deal with. Its what I did to find happiness and have fun after the trauma.
As a brain aneurysm survivor, I often felt alone and disenfranchised from the world. I was told that this was rare and I wouldn’t meet others like me. That’s not true. I looked on social media and found groups of people who were like me - survivors. These social groups made me realize that there were others out there, just like me. It also kept me busy. I found hope before I was ready to step out into the real world.
The second thing I found was finding things to take my mind off what I went through. Trauma haunted me. I kept revisiting the worst moments and replaying it in slow motion. I had to find ways to distract myself from traumatic times but I wasn’t ready to be around others. it helped to set fun goals that helped provide a sense of focus, momentum and even competition. it helped to creates a sense of hope while still allowing space to cope. Whether it’s writing and sharing online or playing video games or maybe participating in virtual sports tournaments—try it. I think it’s important to socialize even when you’re not ready to leave the house.
I understand the fear that comes with just thinking about re-engaging with the world after such a life-altering experience. It was daunting to consider socializing again, but with enough time it was possible to take steps towards rebuilding confidence and my sense of self. Even though I was scared I was more afraid of being alone. I joined local groups centered around my interests and hobbies. It helped me get back out in an environment where I felt comfortable. I started having fun again.
I have a newfound appreciation for life that can never be taken away. This 5 year anniversary is more than just simply counting time — this is reflecting on how much of an incredible journey it's been! With this milestone comes mixed emotions: excitement, reflection and so much gratitude for all who have aided me along the way. It has truly been filled with endless hope and immense progress throughout these last few years – allowing me to rediscover strength within myself that I didn't even know existed.
This year has been amazing.