86. Journey of Self-Advocacy and Returning to School after Brain Injury (with Calista Susa)
A brain injury can turn your entire life upside down in one day- and it’s so important to advocate for yourself in this “new normal.”Calista Susa had a brain bleed at age 16, which led to hospital stays, brain surgeries, rehab, and facing a world of new challenges. On this episode, Cristabelle interviews Calista to share her journey of resilience: being a patient her entire life due to being born with achondroplasia, her journey through brain injury, returning to school with new accommodations, and now working in healthcare to help others! We also discuss how brain injury symptoms impact mental health, and how asking for help is actually a sign of strength. 00:00 Introduction with Cristabelle07:32 Calista’s Injury and Hospital/Rehab15:42 Navigating School Life After a Brain Injury17:50 The Importance of Self-Advocacy21:23 Mental Health and Emotional Resilience30:03 Resilience and Moving Forward38:35 Words of HopeConnect with Calista - IG: @calista.susaCONNECTFind more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: hopesurvives.org | @hopesurvivesHosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.comListen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.