Life can change in an instant. For Kelly Tuttle, that moment came with a car crash—one that left her battling the invisible yet profound effects of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). On this episode of The Second Chance Podcast, host Jeff Robertson sits down with Kelly to discuss her journey of recovery, resilience, and her mission to help others navigate life after a brain injury.
A Career in Medicine, A Life-Changing Event
Before the accident, Kelly had an extensive career in healthcare. A nurse practitioner with over 27 years of experience, she specialized in cardiology before transitioning into neurology. Ironically, it was her own TBI that led her to develop a deeper understanding of brain health, recovery strategies, and the long-term impact of head injuries.
Her story begins with a devastating car accident—one she initially believed she could simply “shake off” and return to normal life. But the reality was far different. Fatigue, memory lapses, light sensitivity, and brain fog became daily struggles, all while she attempted to maintain her professional and personal responsibilities.
The Turning Point: Recognizing the Signs of TBI
Despite her extensive medical background, Kelly admits she didn’t immediately recognize the severity of her condition. It took a close friend—also a neurology nurse practitioner—to open her eyes to what was truly happening. That conversation led her to seek specialized care, including neurotherapy and speech therapy, which became crucial components of her healing journey.
Challenges and Triumphs
Recovering from TBI is not a straight path. Kelly’s biggest challenges included: ✅ Short-term memory loss – She found herself forgetting crucial patient details between reviewing their charts and entering exam rooms.
✅ Speech difficulties – Struggling to articulate words, she developed strategies like pre-writing difficult words and practicing names before appointments.
✅ Sensory overload – Light and sound sensitivity made everyday environments overwhelming, requiring tools like blue-light-blocking glasses and noise-canceling headphones.
✅ Emotional changes – Personality shifts and irritability took a toll on her personal relationships, adding an emotional layer to an already complex recovery process.
From Survivor to Advocate: Writing After the Crash
As Kelly navigated her recovery, she realized there was a lack of resources for those returning to work or school after a brain injury. This led her to write After the Crash: How to Keep Your Job, Stay in School, and Live Life After a Brain Injury, a practical guide filled with tools, strategies, and hope for TBI survivors.
She also developed an online program to provide further support, including specialized courses and a brain injury recovery journal to assist survivors in tracking their progress.
Kelly’s Top 5 Tips for TBI Recovery
1️⃣ Prioritize Sleep – Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
2️⃣ Move Your Body – Even small movements like chair exercises or walking can aid brain function.
3️⃣ Practice Mindfulness – Engage in activities like adult coloring, crocheting, or puzzles to quiet the mind.
4️⃣ Eat Brain-Boosting Foods – Choose whole, nutrient-dense foods over processed options.
5️⃣ Manage Financial Wellness – Reduce unnecessary expenses to alleviate stress during recovery.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Second Chances
Kelly’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of second chances. Her message is clear: Brain injury survivors are not alone, and with the right tools, they can reclaim their lives.
📘 Get Kelly’s Book & Free Recovery Guide
🌍 Learn More About Jeff Robertson & The Second Chance Podcast
If you or someone you know is navigating life after a TBI, share this episode and help spread hope. 💙
