I’ve been a supporter of LoveYourBrain since its inception back when Kevin Pearce had that life altering crash on his snowboard. When I suffered my TBI in 2019, I went from a supporter to being one in need of their services. The yoga programs helped me not only to get moving in a way that felt safe and comfortable for my brain, but also helped bring a sense of calmness. I’ve made mindfulness practice part of my daily routine. LoveYourBrain creates a community who understands what you are going through, because they are walking in your shoes.

As soon as my physical injuries healed enough to allow me to sit on a bike, I got right back to riding on Zwift. It allowed me to continue to stay connected to my passion of cycling while remaining in complete control of the external environment. Symptoms flaring up? Just stop pedaling and get off the bike without worrying about being miles from home or having a dizzy spell while out in the woods alone.

In 2021, I participated in the first annual LoveYourBrain Ride for Resilience. Focusing on hitting my distance goal and riding for a purpose got me back out on the bike more than I had been. I challenged myself to get back on that mountain bike. I remembered why I loved riding in the first place. And the best part is that I was connected to a community of fellow riders who not only shared my love for bikes but also experienced what it is like to live with a traumatic brain injury. I continued this with the 2022 Ride for Resilience, and am excited to be a part of the 2023 Ride.