Survivor

This isn't the typical type of post I would write, but I think it needs to be said. Even eleven years later I still have anxiety attacks, migraines, and am exhausted. I don't say this for your pity-I say it so you'll understand the next time you meet someone with a similar injury.

I’ve had a brain injury.

But that doesn’t define me.

You can’t see my scars

But that doesn’t mean I’ve been set free.

My thoughts are easily confused

I’m exhausted, I can’t think.

I’m constantly treading water

Keeping my head up so I don’t sink.

I don’t remember who I was before-

This has been my life for so long,

I’ve learned to be grateful for this life

But I just want to feel like I belong.

Please don’t tell me I’m lucky or fortunate.

Please recognize I haven’t reached “recovery,”

Yes, it’s a miracle I’m alive

But I’m still on this journey.