Mother’s Day Has New Meaning for CNS Patient and her Mom

The bond between a mother and daughter deepens with life experiences. For Renee and Lauren Brashear it was a catastrophic event that strengthened the bond by creating a new level of devotion, commitment, and love. Lauren’s traumatic brain injury and rehabilitation has given new meaning to their celebration of Mother’s Day this year, as Lauren’s recovery is the ultimate gift for Renee.

In 2014 Lauren was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, suffering a severe traumatic brain injury caused by a fall. After a month in the ICU, Lauren awoke a different person, Renee recalls. Prior to the fall, Lauren was an independent young woman who worked as a special education teacher.

“It’s the worst feeling in the world to see your injured child who’s suddenly not herself,” says Renee. “There was no spark in her beautiful blue eyes. We knew she needed further care.”

Renee wanted the best treatment available. “We chose CNS in Dallas in hopes of bringing Lauren back to the woman she was before the accident.”

The stark changes in Lauren’s behavior and her severe impediments devastated the Brashear family. She displayed nervousness, discomfort, and aggression. She couldn’t speak clearly, read, write, or walk. She developed aphasia, causing her to forget names of friends and family members. Lauren also had vision and breathing complications. Despite these deficits, Renee strongly believed in Lauren’s recovery and was with her every step of the way.

“Renee has been very active in Lauren’s care,” says Lauren’s CNS Case Manager Ainsly McGowan. “She comes to the clinic daily to have lunch with Lauren. Whatever Lauren needs, it’s clear that Renee is there to help.”

Lauren is making incredible progress at CNS, and Renee’s support plays an important role in her daughter’s recovery. She’s relearned to read, write, and speak. Her vision and breathing have improved. She moved from CNS’ residential program to her parents’ home. She even participates in community service to rekindle her passion for helping others.

“We have our daughter back and I am so thankful,” says Renee. Lauren and her family maintain the realistic goal that she will be able to live independently, graduate from therapy, and rededicate her time to serving those in need. Her therapy at CNS reinforces the skills she learned while in treatment.

This recovery will make Mother’s Day a poignant time for Lauren and Renee, who’ll celebrate a renewed bond and a journey of healing at CNS.