By: Kiley Como with Shane Smith Law
“You are your own best doctor. You know your body best. Keep fighting.” — Michael Mashkevich
In this second part of our powerful conversation with life coach and brain injury survivor Michael Mashkevich, Mind Matters host Kiley Como explores how one man’s life was reshaped and ultimately redefined after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). From losing physical independence to discovering a deeper sense of purpose through coaching, community, and fatherhood, Michael’s story offers a blueprint for growth beyond adversity.
From Dependence to Determination
Following a devastating accident that left him with a severe TBI and multiple injuries, Michael could no longer live independently. He moved back in with his parents in Los Angeles, a hard adjustment for a driven young man who’d once lived and worked on his own. But their support was essential in his early recovery, and he’s quick to acknowledge, “Without them, I don’t know how I would be where I am today.”
Despite lingering pain and major limitations, Michael leaned into therapy, recovery routines, and eventually, rebuilding his life with a sense of gratitude.
Recovery Milestones and Letting Go of the “Old You”
Michael shared that returning to tennis, his pre-injury passion, only brought pain. But rather than give up on sports entirely, he adapted. He found joy in volleyball and pickleball, learning which paddle weights reduced strain on his injured arm.
This shift taught him an important truth:
“I needed to change who I used to be… because who I used to be is no longer there.”
Instead of mourning what was lost, he found new ways to move, connect, and enjoy life.
The Healing Power of Meditation and Mindset
Meditation became a daily anchor for Michael, especially during the long months he couldn’t walk or urinate independently. By turning inward, he found peace in the chaos.
“Meditation reminded me to be grateful… I could breathe. I could move my leg. That was enough.”
He also began studying positive psychology, which helped him redirect his thoughts from what was broken to what remained strong.
Diet and Inflammation: A Game-Changer
Ongoing inflammation, especially from metal in his arm, led Michael to experiment with nutrition. He shifted from vegetarian to raw vegan, and saw dramatic changes.
“When my body wasn’t spending energy digesting heavy food, I felt better. I wasn’t fighting pain every day.”
His message to others: don’t overlook the role of food in healing the brain and body.
Career Shift: From Coding to Coaching
Before his accident, Michael was a web developer. Afterward, he returned to his job but felt a growing disconnect between what he did and who he was becoming.
Now, he’s pursuing certification through the International Coaching Federation (ICF) to become a life coach, helping others navigate post-trauma transformation. While therapy focuses on the past, Michael sees coaching as a future-facing tool rooted in hope.
Relationships, Community, and Fatherhood
Moving across the country meant losing his old social circle. But Michael rebuilt his community through meetup groups, especially recreational sports.
Eventually, he met his wife, and the two share a love of travel and exploration. Becoming a father gave Michael new meaning and daily inspiration.
“My daughter teaches me to live in the moment. She’s who she is, unapologetically. I want to be that for her.”
Final Message: You Are Your Best Advocate
When asked what advice he’d give to others living with brain injury, Michael didn’t hesitate:
“You are your own best doctor… You know what your body can handle. The mind is stronger than the body. Keep going.”
He reminds us that no two recoveries look alike and that’s okay. What matters is adapting, advocating, and refusing to quit.
Join the Conversation
Have you or someone you love recovered from a brain injury?
Have meditation, community, or nutrition helped in your journey?
Let us know in the comments. Your story might inspire someone else.
🎧 Catch Part 1 of Michael’s journey if you missed it
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☎️ In pain? Call Shane at 980-999-9999
Related Post:
From Devastation to Determination: Michael’s Journey After Traumatic Brain Injury
