Hi, this is Cate from Atlanta. 78 yrs old and still working as a freelance court reporter, although reduced schedule due to post-concussion syndrome. In Jan of 2025 I had a serious fall at Walmart when the tip of my shoe caught on a piece of buckled aluminum. Fall was so severe it knocked hearing aid out of left ear, knocked pierced earring out of left ear, broke Apple watchband, unable to rise from pavement without assistance for almost 30 min, and on and on. Subsequently had to have left hip replaced because of fall. After surgery had 5 or 6 significant falls to left side and head, with 3 ER visits and 3 concussions and diagnosis of postconcussion syndrome by my neurologist.
Fortunately, all head CTs and MRIs were normal. I did need cognitive therapy after the last fall in January of this yr, 2026.
In addition to the physical challenges from the falls to my knees and hip and wrists, I experienced severe mental confusion, extreme fatugue, mind fog etc. At the time of my 1st fall was grieving the recent death of my spouse of 47 yrs, which complicated my mental symptoms.
I asked the neurologist how she knew it was post-concussion and not grief I was experiencing, or age decline, she said because she knew me prior to the falls and could see my changes. I also failed several routine neuro tests, i.e., remember 3 words, etc.
The most difficult aspects have been the extreme, all consuming fatigue, irritability and and brain fog, as I know I present to friends as composed and present. But it is all smoke and mirrors!! I feel that people don't and can't really understand how I'm feeling.

I have returned to work as a freelance court reporter , but at a greatly reduced work load, as I can't sit for long periods of time and it is very fatiguing to focus.
After excellent cognitive therapy and physical therapy I am learning to give myself grace, rest when I feel the need and not blame myself, and to be very mindful of my surroundings. BUT it is getting very, very old and I want my former self back!! Thank you all!