Hello, it’s me! I’m back! In a way it’s a milestone for me to be able to write my own Caring Bridge entry to wrap things up.  I have discovered some great AI technology that helps me put my thoughts into words so I’ve been able to focus more on writing than before.

I want to thank everyone who has been a part of my recovery these past five years. Your help and support keeps me encouraged and reminds me I’m not alone.  I love you all so much! 

The most basic tasks were a struggle in the beginning. Swallowing, sitting, standing, walking, talking, reading and writing were gone. Most difficult of all, I lost my language. ALL of it. At 26, I was starting over.  I don’t remember it all being quite so hard to relearn the first time.  I don’t know if all the babies out there get enough credit.

I have aphasia and apraxia, so I kind of talk like a little kid now. I like to just laugh about that. Sometimes my grammar isn't great either. I used to be a stickler for grammar, but not anymore. I used to hate it when people said, “My chair is broke.” I know it's hard because I can't say it, and I know it's not right, but I don’t know how to fix it in the moment.   Technology has changed my life because I can talk and text, and it helps me with my grammar.  

I have a job now, as an Aphasia Mentor and Coach for Integrative Reconnective Aphasia Therapy. I like to do everything related to aphasia and help anybody who needs assistance or has aphasia.  I have two groups that meet twice a week.  I enjoy making presentations and now I  do it for others.  I create content that assists them in their daily lives.  I love working with people who have aphasia because the pressure is taken off and I know they understand it’s hard to get the words out.  

But I will say, the past year has been the hardest of recovery. Emotionally hard.   I've had a lot of sad days. My Nana was the best, she was my hero and she died on July 27.   Two weeks later, I went through more losses.  I don’t really mean it, but I think I would rather have another aneurysm and lose my language again than experience losing  people I love.  I’ve always been good with studying and practicing, but grieving is totally different.

I’m living in Northwestern Washington state now.   We have lots of eagles here.   When Margie goes outside, she has to wear a Coyote vest.  Our neighbor didn’t know, and the first time she saw Margie in her vest, they thought I was just really into Heavy Metal music.  We laughed so much about that. Kodiak loves the water. We try to go to the beach at least twice a week.   He’s the best service dog ever and he spoils me.  

Thank you for everything, guys. Thank you for all your support and prayers. I know they have gotten me through a lot of hard days.     Extra big thank you to my Providence family nurses, Dr. He, Dr. Rosenbaum, Craig Hospital, UMAP, Kait Moses, Brooke Lang for not only caring for me but for supporting my family.   

Love you,

Bryn