Three years ago, I suffered a concussion caused by a workplace accident.  Since then I have had post-concussion symptoms, including an inability to focus on the task at hand, poor concentration, loss of decision-making and multi-tasking skills, shoulder and neck pain on my left side, vertigo, and nausea.  In addition, I developed an acute sensitivity to light and noise, which really affected my gym routine. 

The gym is not only where I go to remain fit, functional, and to maintain a strong sense of independence regarding my body.  It is where I go to clear my mind, and has been pivitol for my mental health.  In a way, for me, it is active meditation.  For this reason, I was at a loss after my accident.  When I was able to slowly make my return back to the gym, I realized that I was not able to function as I had before the concussion - I could not focus on any given exercise, or plan a routine.  I was easily distracted by the next machine, muscle, and weaved my way through the gym without a purpose. At the same time, I was trying to acclimatize my new "concussion" senses to the lights and noise of the gym.  It seemed time to quit the gym, and this caused me tremendous sadness - I knew that my mental health and aging would be affected.  A chiropractor caring for me throughout this process knew how important the gym was to me, and recommended Jennifer.  She said that Jennifer specializes in working with people who have disabilities and injuries.   

I can say wholeheartedly that Jennifer gave me back my gym life with her guidance, planning, patience, confidence, and sensitivity to my symptoms.  We started wtih a complete physical and symptomatic assessment, and from that she created a program focused on my physical fitness needs as well as my post-concussion symptoms.  It was a program I could work through in the quiet studio room of my gym, away from the distraction of others working out and the enticement of the machines.  I have to say that initially I struggled with the program as I thought it was too easy for me. Jennifer explained that this was exactly the idea - to slowly work through my concussion symptoms while keeping me active.  She continues to modify my plan as time goes on.  I have regained lost strength, and remained totally focused, while following her program. 

Jennifer has a wonderful vitality and happiness about her that immediately motivates you.  She takes you into a happy space before you even start your workout.  Thanks to Jennifer, I did not quit my gym membership and continue to work out regularly.  I trust that she understands my strength and weaknesses, and my desire to grow.  She gently pushes me back if I want to do too much, and motivates me to move forward if I am stuck. 

Having worked out since my teen years, and now in my 50s - I can't thank Jennifer enough!