By Kiley Como, Legal Nurse Consultant at Shane Smith Law
When we talk about traumatic brain injuries (TBI), we often think in terms of scans and symptoms, diagnoses and medications. But what does it feel like to wake up one day and not remember your wedding? Or the birth of your children? That’s the reality Tiffani Netter lives with every day—and the raw honesty she brought to this episode of Mind Matters was nothing short of unforgettable.
Tiffani is a survivor in every sense of the word. After suffering a severe TBI two years ago, she now navigates a life that looks completely different from the one she used to know—largely because she no longer remembers most of it.
“I don’t remember getting pregnant. I forgot meeting my husband. I forgot getting married,” Tiffani shared. “My brain just stopped at 32. I’m 34 now, but I have to remind myself.”
The Invisible Impact of Brain Trauma
While Tiffani may look fine, her life is defined by invisible limitations. Memory loss, seizures, sensory overload, and emotional fatigue shape every hour of her day. She can’t drive, cook, or be alone. Even simple tasks like reading or writing require conscious effort—and safety protocols.
Her support system, which includes her husband, children, sister-in-law, and father-in-law, is a lifeline. Together, they’ve rebuilt a new normal, one that includes emergency plans, education routines, and a deep, collective patience.
“It’s like waking up and learning you have three kids,” she said. “I’m relearning everything—including the ABCs—with them. They help me do their homework, and I help them with theirs.”
A Dog With a Job—and a Heart
One of the most moving aspects of Tiffani’s story is her bond with her service dog—a fluffy, vigilant protector who senses seizures before they strike and even nudges Tiffani to take her medications.
“She’s not just a pet—she’s medical equipment,” Tiffani explained. “She’s on the job 24/7. Even at night, she wakes me if I’m in trouble.”
But going out in public with a service dog isn’t always easy. Despite being professionally trained, Tiffani and her dog are met with judgment, invasive questions, and skepticism. The misunderstanding around service animals continues to create daily challenges.
Redefining Resilience
Perhaps the most profound part of Tiffani’s journey is how she manages to blend survival with grace, motherhood with learning, and frustration with gratitude. Her message to others?
“Stay hopeful. Advocate for yourself. Speak up for your dog, for your needs, and for your space. Don’t give up.”
The Power of Support and Advocacy
Tiffani’s story reminds us that healing from a brain injury isn’t a straight line. It’s layered, nonlinear, and often misunderstood. But with the right support, compassion, and medical guidance, it’s possible not just to survive—but to thrive.
At Mind Matters, we believe every brain injury story deserves to be told—and understood. If you or someone you love is dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic brain injury, you’re not alone. There’s help. There’s hope. And there’s healing.
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