We all have defining moments in our lives—experiences that shape our values and influence our outlook. Mine came at age 24 when a recreational accident shattered my back. A CT scan revealed a “black hole” where one of my vertebrae should have been, with fragments scattered into my spinal cord. My neurosurgeon explained the need for surgery to reconstruct my spine, warning of a high risk of partial or full paralysis.

By then, I knew a difficult conversation with my fiancé was necessary, as our wedding date was less than four months away. I told him this wasn’t what he’d signed up for and I’d completely understand if he wanted out. Without hesitation, he reassured me that we were in this together, no matter the outcome. In my lowest moment, his unwavering strength inspired me to set a goal: walking down the aisle at our wedding.

Terrified but determined, I was wheeled into the operating room. I’ll never forget the gratitude I felt when my surgeon confirmed post-op that there was no paralysis.

With every challenge comes an invaluable lesson. Recovery humbled me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Growing up fiercely independent and fully immersed in hustle culture, I was still working from my hospital bed in the days leading up to surgery. But this experience became a masterclass in tenacity, vulnerability, and humility.

I learned that tenacity means giving yourself the space to step back, regroup, and return with persistence. Vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but of profound strength, one that fosters authentic connections. Asking for help doesn’t mean you’ve given up; it’s a refusal to quit. Recovery required me to be courageous enough to ask for help and humble enough to accept it.

Four months later, I beamed as I walked down the aisle to my husband, then danced the night away surrounded by the support system that had carried me every step of the way. Even the strongest among us need others to lean on at times, and there’s no shame in that.

After my accident, I became a Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, combining my passion for integrative health with my experience in corporate leadership development. I understand firsthand the power of a strong support system when striving for personal and professional goals. Research shows job stress can lead to serious health risks and significantly impact productivity.

I work with business leaders to proactively implement wellbeing strategies, mindsets, and beliefs to prevent burnout before it takes hold. When I crossed paths with Braintrust, I was ecstatic to join forces with a company that uses neuroscience and behavioral psychology to drive sustainable performance and meaningful results for clients.