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...