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Donna Johnson Edwards is, in the words of William Shakespeare, small but fierce. She stands just under 5 feet tall and admits to having to shop in the children's section from time to time. In spite of, or maybe because of, her tiny stature, Donna exudes power. She doesn’t realize it because her new reality differs so completely from who she was prior to the Traumatic Brain injury she experienced in 2016 that changed her life forever. Her courage and commitment to her healing, the storytelling process, and the honesty of her storytelling is an inspiration. This is her story.
I met Donna in 2018 when she became a member of my ReStory personal narrative writing and storytelling group at Life in 10 Minutes, in Richmond, Virginia. She made it known early in the process that she had been referred to the class by her therapist as part of her healing from a traumatic brain injury. Her courage and commitment to her healing, the storytelling process, and the honesty of her storytelling was inspiring and endearing. In 2019, Donna joined the If You Could See Me Project performing her story in our June event that year.
Donna’s is a story shared by so many who experience disabling conditions or events which alter their mind, body, and probably more than anything their sense of who they are, their value in the world, and often leaving them scrambling to find the appropriate resources and support to return to functioning. Donna’s ability to talk about her experience and to advocate for herself and others, is a reflection of her fierce resilience.
Disclaimer: This story is for entertainment purposes only. If you or someone you love is experiencing the effects of any medical or mental health condition, please seek medical attention. This series is not intended as medical or therapeutic advice and should not replace the engagement of a medical or mental health professional.