Bent but not Broken
Donation protected
In early April I sustained a traumatic brain injury from a serious skateboarding accident. I experienced a fracture from the base of my skull, upward to just above my right ear. My middle ear filled with blood, air entered the fracture and I had a subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is a type of stroke. Fortunately, I have been recovering slowly, but very well from this incident. I can walk, talk, and am truly grateful for how I am doing.
The latest CT scan revealed damage to the right side of my brain, and I continue to experience symptoms from what's called, "post-concussive syndrome", which include headaches, fatigue, and minor cognitive problems. I am receiving support from a speech therapist, neurologist, and psychologist. I am currently on a waitlist to be seen by a neuropsychologist.
The photo (pictured above) was taken on the day of my head injury
At the beginning of July, I badly fractured my right radius and wrist. After a surgical procedure, which implanted a metal plate and eight screws, I am again on the road to healing. I have begun physical therapy and hope to regain the full functionality of my hand and arm.
The photo (pictured below) was taken a few weeks before my arm surgery, with my best friend helping me with my garden
The photo (pictured below) is an X-ray taken a couple of weeks after surgery. I am grateful for the excellent job my surgeon did and hope to regain the full function of my hand and arm.
Before my injuries, I volunteered at the Denver Women's Correctional Facility, teaching yoga. I created a web page devoted to assisting others with the volunteer process (Yoga & Then Some Mindfulness Behind Bars & Beyond).
Now, although I cannot physically or financially support social justice organizations as I would like to, I still seek ways to uplift vulnerable communities. I have recently become a Court Appointed Special Advocate, mentoring, and advocating for a child involved with an abuse/neglect case (Denver CASA).
Most recently, I supervised at a summer camp, which brings together siblings who've been separated by the foster care system. The experience has filled my heart with joy and motivation.
As a butterfly landed on me while at Camp to Belong, I was overwhelmed with a sense of surrender to the transformative process.
Due to my recent injuries, I have resigned from teaching Yoga, and have only been able to work a few hours per week. My small business, Denver Mindful Medicine , is on hold, as I cannot make aromatherapy products or host aromatherapy sessions. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
I have just begun a Master's program. I am studying Somatic Psychology, with a concentration in Dance and Movement Therapy. As I look into the near future, I remain hopeful, but also realistic. Right now, I need some help.
The picture (above) was taken the day of my surgery
The pictures (below) were from my volunteer experience at Camp to Belong Elevating Connections - a signed cast from the kids and a socially distanced photo of the volunteer team members (pictured bottom right)
Medicaid is covering a good portion of my medical bills. My student loans will cover the majority of my tuition this semester. I was also able to get a small business loan, which decreased my financial needs. Your contribution will help to pay the remaining balance for this semester, my remaining medical bills, and my cost of living for the next 3 months, while the income I earn will cover the cost of my bills, gas, and food.
Any amount you can provide will be greatly appreciated and if you know someone who is able to help, I appreciate you sharing this campaign. As I am lifted up in my current time of need, I will continue to pay it forward whenever and wherever possible.
With gratitude,
Shannon
The latest CT scan revealed damage to the right side of my brain, and I continue to experience symptoms from what's called, "post-concussive syndrome", which include headaches, fatigue, and minor cognitive problems. I am receiving support from a speech therapist, neurologist, and psychologist. I am currently on a waitlist to be seen by a neuropsychologist.
The photo (pictured above) was taken on the day of my head injury
At the beginning of July, I badly fractured my right radius and wrist. After a surgical procedure, which implanted a metal plate and eight screws, I am again on the road to healing. I have begun physical therapy and hope to regain the full functionality of my hand and arm.
The photo (pictured below) was taken a few weeks before my arm surgery, with my best friend helping me with my garden
The photo (pictured below) is an X-ray taken a couple of weeks after surgery. I am grateful for the excellent job my surgeon did and hope to regain the full function of my hand and arm.
Before my injuries, I volunteered at the Denver Women's Correctional Facility, teaching yoga. I created a web page devoted to assisting others with the volunteer process (Yoga & Then Some Mindfulness Behind Bars & Beyond).
Now, although I cannot physically or financially support social justice organizations as I would like to, I still seek ways to uplift vulnerable communities. I have recently become a Court Appointed Special Advocate, mentoring, and advocating for a child involved with an abuse/neglect case (Denver CASA).
Most recently, I supervised at a summer camp, which brings together siblings who've been separated by the foster care system. The experience has filled my heart with joy and motivation.
As a butterfly landed on me while at Camp to Belong, I was overwhelmed with a sense of surrender to the transformative process.
Due to my recent injuries, I have resigned from teaching Yoga, and have only been able to work a few hours per week. My small business, Denver Mindful Medicine , is on hold, as I cannot make aromatherapy products or host aromatherapy sessions. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
I have just begun a Master's program. I am studying Somatic Psychology, with a concentration in Dance and Movement Therapy. As I look into the near future, I remain hopeful, but also realistic. Right now, I need some help.
The picture (above) was taken the day of my surgeryThe pictures (below) were from my volunteer experience at Camp to Belong Elevating Connections - a signed cast from the kids and a socially distanced photo of the volunteer team members (pictured bottom right)
Medicaid is covering a good portion of my medical bills. My student loans will cover the majority of my tuition this semester. I was also able to get a small business loan, which decreased my financial needs. Your contribution will help to pay the remaining balance for this semester, my remaining medical bills, and my cost of living for the next 3 months, while the income I earn will cover the cost of my bills, gas, and food.
Any amount you can provide will be greatly appreciated and if you know someone who is able to help, I appreciate you sharing this campaign. As I am lifted up in my current time of need, I will continue to pay it forward whenever and wherever possible.
With gratitude,
Shannon
Organizer
Shannon Boarman
Organizer
Denver, CO
