Blink of an Eye

#248 The Impact of Spinal Cord Injury Trauma on a Trauma Therapist Mom with Wendy Gilchrist

In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Gilchrist, a trauma therapist, mother, and advocate, to discuss the life-altering journey she and her family embarked on after her son Pato suffered a severe spinal cord injury, C4-5 incomplete, during his senior year of high school. Wendy shares what might surprise you about her experience of trauma as a trauma therapist. She gives examples of the importance of building a strong support system, and how faith and SCI community, especially developed during out patient therapy, play a vital role in the SCI healing process.

We also explore how family dynamics shifted in response to Pato’s injury, the emotional challenges of navigating trauma—including anger and blame—and the significance of celebrating small victories in rehabilitation. Wendy offers valuable insights into the role of therapy for caregivers, the importance of personal growth for both the injured and their loved ones, and how finding joy amidst struggle is possible.

Join us for a powerful conversation about resilience, healing, and the ongoing journey of recovery.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year. Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise visit: www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.