From test to testimony: Resilience after a TBI diagnosis

Abstract

Autoethnographic research is a relatively new means of gathering data on oneself to connect to research and theory while advocating for change within a policy, law, and/ or environment. In this autoethnography I will recount the experience of my traumatic brain injury (TBI) diagnosis following a car accident and present a few implications for the professionals and members of the society at large surrounding the issue of TBI such as the need for awareness and understanding as well as the importance of therapy and other forms of care within different cultures. When I was first diagnosed, many people did not know what TBI was, what it stood for, or what symptoms could result. Although research has progressed with this diagnosis, there is still a long road ahead. The first step to change is recognizing that there is a problem. After the problem is recognized, the solution can begin.