Living with my Brain Injury | Headway Norfolk and Waveney

Emma Martins, a once flourishing television producer at the pinnacle of her career, found her trajectory abruptly altered by a life-altering incident during a holiday in Vietnam. A grave brain injury, stemming from a viral infection contracted overseas, became the catalyst for a profound transformation in Emma's life.

Enduring the grueling reality of a mere 20% chance of survival, Emma exhibited extraordinary resilience during her three-month hospital stay. Her fight against the odds was a testament to her unwavering spirit and determination to overcome adversity.

However, the aftermath of her illness presented a new set of challenges. Emma faced the daunting task of relearning how to walk, and the harsh reality set in that returning to her former career as a television producer was an impossibility. This pivotal realisation compelled her to navigate the uncharted terrain of life post-injury, redefining her identity and purpose in the process.

Living with the enduring effects of the brain injury, Emma grappled with partial sight, cognitive fatigue, and severe dyslexia. These challenges, once unfamiliar, became integral aspects of her daily existence. Rather than succumbing to the difficulties, Emma embraced the journey of adaptation, resilience, and self-discovery.

In an effort to share her experiences and insights, Emma has taken to the digital realm and crafted a blog chronicling her remarkable journey of living with a brain injury. Through her compelling narratives, readers gain an intimate understanding of the highs and lows, triumphs and setbacks, and the profound lessons learned on the arduous path toward acceptance and a redefined life. Emma's blog stands as a beacon of inspiration, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of the human spirit when faced with life's unexpected challenges.

Blog 1

Celebrating a Decade of Resilience: Blog One is live! Join Emma Martins as she takes us back to the pivotal moment that changed her life, sharing the journey from the day she sustained a brain injury to her present challenges and triumphs. A decade of strength, resilience, and inspiring personal growth.

Blog 2

Welcome to a blog where rhythm meets equations, and the world of tap dancing intertwines with the challenges of math lessons and the joy of reading. Join me on a unique journey as I navigate the rhythmic beats of tap dancing endeavors, accompanied by the pursuit of mathematical mastery and the delightful exploration of captivating books.

Blog 3

Welcome to a blog where Emma introduces us to her career before her Brain Injury. Explore how Emma manages her symptoms post-brain injury including memory difficulties.

Blog 4

Welcome to a blog where Emma tells us about remembering dreams, keeping her home tidy, early days, being part of the Community again and the route to recovery over a cuppa.

Blog 5

Emma Martin’s decade-long journey living with an acquired brain injury (ABI) highlights resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of technology. In this blog, Emma explores how advancements in tech—from voice-activated commands to assistive apps—have helped her regain independence and embrace creativity in her daily life.

Blog 6

This December marks 10 years since Emma Martin sustained her brain injury, a journey filled with challenges, growth, and unforgettable experiences. In this penultimate blog of her anniversary series, “Living with My Brain Injury”, Emma takes us on an exciting new adventure—learning to sail.

The content on this platform is produced by Emma Martins, Lived Experience Communicator, in collaboration with her support worker. All views expressed herein are solely those of Emma Martins and her support worker, and they do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of Headway Norfolk and Waveney.

It is essential to note that the content shared represents personal experiences and is not intended as professional advice. For medical guidance and assistance, especially if you require specific healthcare recommendations, it is strongly advised to consult with qualified medical professionals, including your general practitioner (GP). The information provided on this platform should not be considered a substitute for personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Headway Norfolk and Waveney disclaims any liability arising from reliance on the information presented here for medical decision-making. Always consult with healthcare professionals for accurate and personalised guidance based on your individual circumstances.