Brooke suffered a traumatic brain injury just a year ago. It resulted in a seriously invasive surgery. Her family was told she may never speak or walk again. Ha! What do they know anyway? The doctor’s prediction was true for the first couple of weeks and Brooke’s memory (events and how to do things) was seriously diminished. But this lady is not typical. She is an extraordinary fighter and survivor. She pushed every moment of her rehabilitation.
“They put a strap around my waist so I wouldn’t fall and asked me to walk. I ran!” Brooke told me. You can imagine the delighted giggle I gave her.
The following months had her talking more and being very mobile. Most of her memory has returned and more continues to surface. Brooke is single and, by the way, owns her own condo in full! The downside is that her neighborhood is extremely unsafe, and she must take her dog out on walks and, well, to do his business. Additionally, there are extenuating circumstances that cause her fear even in her home.
Taking all of this into account, many would have thrown in the towel after the accident. Not Brooke! She is upgrading her home with several safety features and her skills with self-defense means. Having little to no firearm experience, she came to our 2-day Concealed Carry class. Brooke applied herself like few do. Instead of remaining timid, she was engaged and participative.
Once on the range, her nerves did show themselves at first. This type of scenario is exactly why we try to have at least three instructors present. I was able to coach her one on one. We first worked on a proper grip and follow-though, her stance and breathing. It quickly became apparent that one of her eyes had been affected by the surgery. We made the appropriate adjustments, and you can see for yourself, in the photo, how she did.
Personally, I walked away feeling inspired and realized that anything I may be battling is nothing, compared to others. I sincerely hope Brooke brightened your day and empowered you as well.