Aaron Wallace

On March 13, 2024, my life changed forever.

While riding my bicycle, I collided with a vehicle and suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). As a result of the TBI, I experienced nerve damage to the entire left side of my body and began facing serious cognitive challenges. In a moment, everything I once took for granted—walking, thinking clearly, even speaking—became battles I had to fight every day.

I had to relearn how to walk. How to move. How to live in a body that no longer felt like mine. Recovery has been the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. The pain I felt was real—but so was the mental fatigue, exhaustion, and the emotional toll I endured. Yet through every one of these challenges, I discovered a strength within myself that I never knew was there.

I’ve fully committed myself to this journey. I’m well over 1,500 therapy sessions in, and I’m still not where I want or need to be. I go to neuro therapy three times a week, with OT/PT typically in the same day. I also attend physical/sports therapy two days a week, paying out of pocket. It’s been intense, but I’ve been blessed with incredible therapists. I’ve also met others who have experienced TBIs and other brain injuries—their courage and stories remind me that I am not alone in this fight.

Above all, my faith in Jesus Christ has grounded me. When I felt weak, He gave me strength and reminded me of who I am and what I’m capable of becoming.

Today, I’m riding a bicycle again—this time with a helmet. I’m playing with my nephews, smiling, laughing, and moving. I hold onto these moments, because it’s in these moments that I’m reminded just how far I’ve come in this journey.

This journey has challenged every part of me—but it’s also revealed the deepest parts of my strength, faith, and purpose. I’m still recovering, but I’m alive. I’m walking. I’m thinking more clearly. And I’m grateful for every step forward. Be kind.