Elaina Prine

If I had to summarize my brain injury in one word it would be “annoited”. Since my brain injury after a car wreck in 2013, because someone rear-ended me at 60 mph in a truck and i was in a car, my biggest impact area would be my spirituality and drawing closer to God. After my moderate tbi and being unconscious for an hour I realized I had encountered god. My family thought I was crazy from the different things I was saying and doing and it was rough the first 10 years because they didnt understand. Most people dont realize the impact a brain injury has on someone because you cant see it and are not educated. It gave me schizoaffective disorder and multiple other diagnosis but I found my healing in embracing the calling on my life after the first 6 years. My injury was actually a blessing in disguise. I’m not the same person I was before my accident. I’m chosen. It hasn’t been easy and some days are harder than some but once my family had better understanding it got a lot easier. I was very vulnerable at one point and was targeted after I bragged on my relationship with God to someone who persecuted me for it and made me feel helpless so i had no choice but to run to jesus harder. The more I found and find Jesus and continue to draw near to him the more I am protected and guided. My advice is to have a support system that understands the effect of the brain injury so they can better help you recover. My family didnt know so they couldn’t help me at first as much as I needed. It isn’t their fault they were never properly educated. They are more understanding now that I was able to communicate about it so if you’re unable to make sure you have a Dr or advocate explain things to your support system early on. Remember that your higher power has your back and nothing can stop you from healing. I have came a long way and often misunderstood but I’m now 11 years in on my healing process. Always have gratitude and believe in yourself. It isn’t easy but it gets better- sometimes slowly but steady. Never give up because recovery is possible.