My Story Continues in D.C.
Who is fired up about National Brain Injury Awareness Day in Washington, D.C. starting tomorrow? This may be my twelfth year attending, although I lost track of exactly how many trips it has been because I missed a year or two while transitioning from NC to NYC. Then last year, I got Covid, so I needed to change my in-person visits to virtual meetings.
This year, six members from the Story I'll Tell writer's group that I belong will visit D.C. tomorrow, all attending for their first time. Fortunately, we aligned our calendars for a final planning call last night. While I was hanging out in the virtual waiting room, someone called to ask if I planned to join the Zoom? That's when I realized, I forgot to click the "Launch" button... everyone could tell how excited I was!
There are lots of great photos in my phone that help me remember all the incredible experiences I have had over the years. They trace back to my first trip with Karen Keating in 2009, eight months following the life-changing car crash that killed my husband and caused the TBI I live with today. Each year provides new things to consider, and here is my current lesson plan:
For the first time ever, I am traveling alone and without a "Brain Buddy." This is my annual personal trusted resource who helps keep me on track and stay on time. As a seasoned traveler who lives with a brain injury, I will do my best to keep myself on point.
I broke my ankle two months ago, and I am trusting my healed ankle can get me everywhere I need to be on time. I am still wearing a brace.
Because of this, I debated extensively about travel accommodations. I decided to leave the heavy non-collapsible knee scooter thingy behind and instead wear the heavy rehabilitative hard boot while flying. When I make it D.C., I will do what I can do to rest while in the notoriously long security lines to get into the buildings.
I have an hour layover in Charlotte, so I plan to ask for transportation assistance to efficiently make it to the next gate.
It is my great honor to support several friends as they make their first trip to D.C. for this year's event. I remember the excitement of my first sojourn and that initial thrill never really ends. This Day will allow most attendees a chance to collect great stories, make lasting friendships and fond memories (If memories are worth saving, I have found that I must write them down).
My best friend Neysa called to offer her encouragement a few hours ago. I told her I will do my best to stay in the flow. She promptly answered "No, you are not going with the flow. This time you are going to help steer the ship!"
The area's greatest Hostess With The Mostest is my friend Claire Gill. She has regularly hosted me for this annual adventure, and I doubt I would be able to attend without her gracious invitation to stay with her family. After today's pep talk, Claire assured me everything is set. She said a copy of my travel itinerary that I emailed her will be taped to the family fridge. Backup drivers have been lined up in case they are needed.
Having support to attend this event has been super important for me. I want to thank my fellow writers for joining me on their first great adventure to National Brain Injury Awareness Day. I also have met some of the absolute coolest people connected to the world of brain injury from other states, and I look forward these reunions and the new friendships that are waiting to be made.
If you'd like any last minute advocacy refreshers, please visit these latest videos created by the Brain Injury Advisory Council:
Brain Injury Advocacy: A Survivors Perspective
Part 1: https://youtu.be/i4WeLJ0oguo?si=IoyZy9YVgWgM1q3E
Part 2: https://youtu.be/1AJ_4EH64UA?si=BRaCSjz6uQ6IHUyk
Part 3: https://youtu.be/yAt5Fw4sxkA?si=dKhvks3boGrBUJ61