Anyone who knows me is aware that I am generally a planner. I like to organise and plan things; unsurprisingly, my job is no different. However, I find myself in an unusual situation due to personal circumstances. What should have been a harmless slip and fall resulted in my partner sustaining a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).
As an academic researcher, I’ve recently listened to a mentor’s wisdom to embrace the unexpected and seize opportunities presented to me as someone with firsthand experience of TBI. Alongside my work in cancer health economics, I am building a profile and providing expertise on brain injury based on my personal experiences as a carer.
My insights continue to shape the Australian clinical practice guidelines for treating psychosocial disorders in moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury, which are currently under development. As a member of the MRFF $50 million TBI mission expert advisory panel, I contribute to research priorities in this understudied area. These networks have enabled me to explore gaps in knowledge for brain injury, resulting in successful collaborations and possibilities to investigate and implement the best care for individuals with TBI in Australia and globally. I plan to use my discrete choice expertise to explore care and rehabilitation preferences for TBI patients and their families, aiding their return to work, social engagement, and participation in society.
I’m excited to stand at the intersection of health economics research and lived experience with a renewed professional purpose and extended academic interests.
Who knew that success could arise from adversity? It’s a valuable lesson for us all.
