Blogs
Mistreating the Disabled
It was September 26, 2021, when I received a phone call from a friend of mine. It was a beautiful day in New England. This friend called to check in and see how I was doing. These two people were tailgating at a sports event. I could tell the person I was on the phone...
How Chronic Pain Can Affect Ones Mental Health
I feel alone and lost, as if I can’t find my way back. I’m exhausted and feel like I’m sinking. I’m realizing how frustrated and drained I am. It’s getting harder to function each day. I feel like I’m trapped in my body and can’t escape. At times I wonder if life will...
Mental Health: It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
Last month was Mental Health Awareness Month. According to Mental Health America, close to 20% of adults suffer from mental illness(es), about 50 million. Mental health doesn’t discriminate. It can affect anyone. There’s no shame talking about mental health; in fact,...
Be Your Own Advocate
It’s 11:06 a.m., and I’m exhausted. I started my day bright and early with physical therapy at 8:00 a.m. I met with the wheelchair clinic, and modifications will be made to my wheelchair; including new tires, seat cushion, a new foot rest, and much more. After I met...
The Hero of My Life: Robert Lloyd Coval
My father, Bob Coval, was my hero. He was my rock, and the person I leaned on most. He always encouraged me to never allow my disabilities to stop me from pursuing my dreams, to never give up. He was there when I published my first book, “An Untethered Truth, A...
Listening to Your Body
Physical therapy started at 9:00 a.m., and I knew I wasn’t feeling right. With help, I got dressed, got my shoes on, and put on my back brace. My physical therapist helped me transfer to my wheelchair. There are two physical therapists working with me. While I’m...
Pain Management
I look outside the window. The sun is shining, and boats pass by on the water. The water is flat, peaceful; there’s so much beauty outside my window. I’m in a lot of pain. I can feel the surgical work my surgeon did to my back, something I don’t wish for anyone to...
Celebrating Little Wins
It’s 5:50 a.m. and I can’t sleep. I feel drained and exhausted. To the left of me is a window overlooking the Charlestown Navy Yard. I can see the reflection of the water; it looks peaceful and calming. It’s still dark out. However, you can see the cars drive by. I...
Thirteen Days Out of Neurosurgery: Mind Over Matter
Today I sat up for an hour, something I’m extremely proud of. It's September 6, 2021. It took three people to help me transfer, as I’m unable to feel my legs. At the moment, I’m unable to use them at all, so I have to rely on others to help me move. Before I transfer,...
Three Weeks out of Surgery
Today’s my first full day at rehab; I am three weeks out of neurosurgery having my spine realigned and refused. The physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, doctors, and nursing assistants have been so kind. Each day, I have three to four hours of...