Life Changes After A Brain Injury

Dr Jo Scott was in the final stages of qualifying as a specialist haematologist when a brain haemorrhage changed everything. As well as impaired movement and hand function, Jo’s speech and ability to process language were severely impacted. After a long battle to try to salvage her career, Jo and husband Leon realised the way forward needed to be different.
Initially a stay-at-home Dad to their one year old baby, Leon had to take on full time work as well as juggling parenting and being a support for Jo. Now, he faced his own struggle with depression. Over the years, Jo and Leon have helped each other find a new normal, and recently welcomed a daughter to their family.
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[@aegrant100]

Please to everyone saying that she should learn sign language. This is a condition Dr .Jo has been living with for many years. If her doctors and therapists thought sign language was a better option for her than speech, she’d be using it by now. She has expressive aphasia that has affected all means of expressive communication including writing and typing.

[@leonbirt7531]

Thanks Allison- you made the comment I haven’t had time to make yet :) I do appreciate the place in your hearts that thinking about sign language comes from, but sadly it doesn’t really work with the kind of aphasia Jo has.

[@bubblegummel]

How in the world do people think it would easier for her to learn a new language than to continue to improve and relearn the one she already has.

[@MerryMixerUnboxing]

@@bubblegummel because most people are probably thinking it's just her speech that was affected and not realizing it was so much more. Because if that was the case and it was just her mouth muscles then it would make sense. But obviously if that was the case in 7 years the woman would've obviously learned sign language, or at least started on it.

[@v33kirikino84]

Well said! Why should she learn sign language when she can speak. Thankyou for letting us see your journey.

[@LisaD007]

Allison Grant, I love how people think they know what’s best for other people when they have absolutely no idea what they are talking about.

[@emilywiebel3238]

When Connor said “sometimes I have to translate bc I’m the best person who understands her in the whole entire world” I got the biggest smile. Children are little angels and you can just tell how much he adores his mom and he’s very proud to be there to help her when she needs it.

[@wiksel]

Connor: "Because I am the best person to understand her in the hole entire world" Such a pure heart ...

[@leonekennedy8703]

Such a beautiful boy. A credit to his mum & dad 💕💕💕

[@denisenicole8153]

That part got me right in the heart. What an absolute angel 😇

[@theresarasche3173]

I also loved when he said her speech went a little wonky 😂❤❤❤

[@emmyali920]

Doctor Jo is a badass warrior woman. Such a great mother, a brilliant and determined lady. Her hubby, well he’s a nothing short of a rockstar, and their kiddos are adorable & awesome. Thank you for letting us into your home and being honest about all the ups and downs. I admire all the love in your family. Wishing you well from the USA.

[@zerodddog5052]

@@klaasvankleef6299 seems like a strong woman to me

[@klaasvankleef6299]

@@zerodddog5052 Yeah meant strong! sorry brainglitch

[@klaasvankleef6299]

@@livmarlin4259 what the hell are you talking about man? Are you a troll or something? Because it's obviously stated that all her intellectual abilities are intact

[@klaasvankleef6299]

@@livmarlin4259 pedophilia seriously? Whats wrong with you bro damn

[@klaasvankleef6299]

@@livmarlin4259 she has all her intellectual abilities. The thing she cannot do is convert the movements necessary to speak words

[@moniqueh7948]

I love getting updates about Jo and her amazing family. It is totally normal that Leon had a breakdown after carrying so much on his shoulders. He is a really strong, impressive man to have saved his family when many men would have walked away and left devastation in their wake. He should be so proud of himself. They are both amazing.

[@emilywiebel3238]

I agree!! I’m so glad he asked for help for his depression and he isn’t ashamed or embarrassed by it as well. So many people hide it or just give up as you mentioned and walk away and he pushed through which is amazing. I can’t imagine your life changing in an instant and also have a young child as well to take care of on top of everything else. Anyone in that situation would be very overwhelmed and many would have just walked away and never turned back. They have such a beautiful and sweet family 💕

[@kysssims8764]

This is so true. I suffered a hemorrhagic stroke After having my son in 2016 like Dr. Jo and it affected my mobility not my speech. His Dad was not supportive at all and my recovery was incredibly hard without the support. I eventually left him And now it’s just me and my son who is 3 years old. Dealing with a toddler and a disability(still suffer from weakness on my left side) is a lot but my son is definitely a part of my therapy/recovery. He pushes me to be my best self and keeps me super active! This family is blessed to have each other!.. wishing them nothing but the best!

[@donnaadom8483]

Agreed. I'm also impressed with the stark honesty here. It's refreshing to see honest struggles, with positive lives being led, to help show us all that their are so many variations to relationships, families, work and careers, gender roles, and that they themselves are not static. My best regards to these four, and their future together.

[@bunzer.of.wunzerton2235]

Good men and women like him do the right thing. He stood strong for her and his kids. My husband didn't walk away when we were dating and I had to have a spinal fusion he proposed 6 months later. People of good character don't walk away ☺️

[@moniqueh7948]

@@kysssims8764 So sorry that your husband did that but I'm so happy you are making it through with your beautiful son. His dad is clearly a weak man.

[@s.h.4241]

I’d bet a lot of people judged jo for marrying him because he wasn’t as successful as her. She married an amazing man. She’s very lucky to have someone who loves her so deeply. Probably the cleverest choice of her life.

[@reneemiller4665]

My little brother died at 23 from an AVM on the brainstem. You are fortunate to have survived and I think you are doing a great job with speech!!! I love you!!

[@MerryMixerUnboxing]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Things like this are hard because of how crucial time is, and it's almost impossible to react fast enough. She was very lucky to be in a hospital when it happened.

[@aliamissy]

I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@sandyr7130]

So sorry to hear that. I lost my mum when I was 12 and she was 34 from a brain haemorrhage from an aneurysm. Beautiful documentary.

[@Jsatchel2010]

I hope you are managing to get over it. I know what it is like to lose a brother.

[@khonkhosilelihle7414]

Sorry about your lost.

[@leonbirt7531]

Thanks to everyone for all of the supportive messages and suggestions that come from a caring place. We’ve explored a lot of paths that can’t be covered in the doco and brain bleeds are very complicated things. We have had amazing help from various medical professionals, speech therapists, physiotherapists and others- leaving very few stones unturned (psychedelic mushrooms haven’t been explored, yet?) Above everything else we’ve had boundless love and compassion from our friends, colleagues and the wider community. People can be amazingly caring when the opportunity comes along. Keep being that way to each other- especially in these difficult times. :) Kia Kaha (stay strong)

[@luzargueta-vogel1208]

I know this is only anecdotal & my brain injury was very different however I have benefited tremendously from psilocybin therapy. I experienced brain injury due to neuro hypoxia & toxicity from carbon monoxide poisoning. The first year was terrifying for me cognitively. My language comprehension & reading retention skills were severely diminished. I was fortunate to have access to non-allopathic treatments & psilocybin (in addition to a cacophony of other tools) was unequivocally helpful in my neuro-rehabilitation. I understand that the brain & mind I used to have, experienced what is equivalent to a forest fire. Those neural pathways will be gone forever but with the help of mycelium & other plant entheogens, I was able to activate new neuronal pathways & enhance my neuroplasticity beyond its previous potentiality. Long winded way to say, I highly recommend those mushrooms! Your family is incredible. Thank you for sharing these windows into your shared lives.

[@tamberjune]

You are all staying strong. I'm so glad to see other people going through similar things.

[@sammi_333]

Leon please look up magic Mushies and join fb groups. Research because if done right this could make a difference. Look up my mate tom, also ted tv theres a psychs talking about how it can change your life, brain patterns etc and how they have been trialing it with patients. I have done this for my own issues like for trauma, memory issues, PTSD, anxiety etc and I cant tell you enough how grateful I am and how far I have come after small, medium then a high dose. You can also look up about micro dosing too without the trips but rewires your brain and thinking. I could go on forever please hit me up if you need any more info. Mother nature is amazing ❤

[@laeticiapearl2016]

🙏🏾

[@correnlove7439]

Thank you so much for sharing your families story, it's perseverance at it's best. Being vulnerable and sharing such private struggles can never be easy. You and Jo are so incredibly strong and through all of it Conner is an amazing and well rounded little boy. That is not accidental. Your family is an inspiration.

[@someonerandom6379]

What an amazing little boy. His parents have done a wonderful job and should be so proud of raising a child with values and compassion

[@rachelvillarim3279]

Indeed ❤️

[@joshuawayneyork]

9:12 my heart BROKE... This obviously brilliant woman is trying so hard to speak and seeing the dispair in her eyes right here. I'm not religious at all but I am doing my version of "praying" that she realizes her goals.

[@Drbethturtlewoman]

I am a Physician and I had an ischemic stroke 5 years ago. I could not speak at all. Thankfully I recovered and was able to go back to practice medicine. I bet she gets her speech back.

[@chaunybuck6065]

Its already been 7yrs, not likely. 24 months is pretty much the extent of neuro advancement post injury.

[@theinternetwasamistake5966]

How long did it took to come back?

[@Drbethturtlewoman]

@@theinternetwasamistake5966 very quickly

[@Drbethturtlewoman]

@@chaunybuck6065 I did not realize it had been that long.

[@theinternetwasamistake5966]

@@Drbethturtlewoman Glad to know, have a nice day.

[@MeighanT]

My mom had a stroke (brain hemorrhage) in 2004 at age 63. She still suffers from aphasia and seizures. The struggle Jo is living with brings tears to my eyes because it mirrors my mom's struggle. I also see the strength and determination to fight back from the injury. My mom was an elementary music teacher, and her career ended because of her stroke.

[@tdmj2812]

My sister has a TBI after a bad car accident. I believe with the love and support of her family her recovery is nothing but miraculous. I thank GOD everyday for her! We are so lucky she survived.

[@juulclark2651]

How tragic! Why did this have to happen to such a brilliant doctor? Life is cruel. What a beautiful and caring husband! My heart breaks for her!

[@swasileski]

My daughter also suffered a brain injury from a ruptured AVM last year when she was 16. She gets frustrated and depressed because she can't control the left side of her body like she use too. This story gives me hope that she still has lots of time to improve.

[@msmalice]

Wishing y'all all the best. I hope she recovers and getss her life back. Sending y'all my love

[@kwhadda]

My daughter suffered an AVM rupture in her cerebellum in 2016 while pregnant. She coded 5 times and was told we could see her for goodbyes. She pulled through after 2 months in the hospital and each milestone I wondered if this is where her progress stops. After release she still would get confused, had vertigo, double vision and the tip of her tongue and fingers were numb. It is now 2020 and she still has some deficiencies. We went from wheelchair, to walker to needing to hold onto to someone while walking..but does pretty good on her own on flat surfaces. Mentally she is exactly the same. She has visual and balance problems. Cannot drive. The baby is now almost 4 and he is perfect. I am telling you this because there is hope and improvement, even after the window that is expected; it just isn't as rapid as before. I wish you and your daughter well and a full recovery.

[@diannebalemi6334]

Thank you beautiful young people for sharing your experience,my poor husband cried at Leons courage in getting help when he needed it-i had a stroke a year ago,and lifes changed forever for us both, but he hadn't realised how depressed he's been, until he recognised himself in leon. I very much identified with Jo wanting her life back but accepting there is a new normal. you wonderful brave kiwis, we wish you all the best for a joyful family future.

[@kyliemcdowall862]

Very tragic I’m a stroke survivor with brain injury and it’s taken me 5 years to get back to work as a bookkeeper it’s very brain tiring and I only work 16 hours a week hopefully jo will find something she can get back to.

[@GreenAndTheToe]

Conner is very loving kid. He is intelligent and kind.

[@donnaarrowsmith3516]

I was a social worker in a past life and testified against a predator who was a young daughter worst nightmare. He followed me home from work and beat me with a baseball bat and broke my back, skull hip and pelvis. I was pregnant at the time and my husband and I lost our first little one. I am sharing this because it is amazing what we heal from, what challenges us and the triumphs. I admire you both.

[@wangechinjuguna4833]

So sorry Donna.

[@parisinthe30sx]

If anyone can get their speech back, she can. She seems like a very determined woman. I cant even imagine how difficult it must be to watch the love of your life struggle in such a way. I hope she continues to improve. I wish you both the best!

[@bindilove3899]

My husband was severely injured in an attack (robbery) at work. After multiple surgeries and countless rehab visits he improved but was never the same. After 5 years, the hardest thing for us was realizing he would never get back to ‘normal’. We had to let go of what was, and had to accept was was ‘ now.’ Once we let go of the past and accepted our new path it eventually got easier and we had more happiness in our life. Man…it was hard. My heart goes out to this couple. 🥰

[@annieb.869]

She is so strong and brave. Imagine having the brain of a genius and not being able to let it all naturally flow perfectly out of your mouth without even thinking about it. I would go crazy. She is strong-willed and full of drive and she has objectives. She is a warrior and a great mother!

[@veronicarose7]

This is heartbreaking and inspirational at the same time. I could not possibly imagine the sheer frustration she has to go through on a daily basis. I hope that she can get her speech back to the point where she can do what she loves again.

[@maxdlove9507]

You guys are amazing. I have 3 kids myself. I acquired a brain injury before I had children, hemorige and eight titanium screws later not knowing all my complications. It's been a struggle. Without the support of my husband, I would be so lost. Seriously super amazing!

[@millie8163]

The husband is really amazing for staying by his wife side. And the little boy is amazing as well, for accepting his mom is different and not resenting her. As a disabled person myself(who was born with it), gives me a little relief if I ever do decide to have kids one day, I might not feel ashamed for being a "half of" mom for not being able to do somethings.

[@pinkmonkeybird2644]

I think you’ve set the bar pretty low for husbands; I would hope that all partners would stay and support their loved one throughout all of life’s victories and losses. After all, most people take a vow about sickness and health, right? Or are they just empty words? I think you are selling yourself and your future children short too. Why on earth would you feel like you are half a person? A person’s worth isn’t tied to their body, we are all equally important and deserving of respect, and you contribute to the human community just like everyone else. And kids are kids; they love their parents no matter what they look like or how they navigate the world. I’m also disabled, I’ve been a wheelchair user since I was a kid, but I grew up, went to college, got married, have a great career, and have children. They have never once said they wished I wasn’t in a wheelchair or that I wasn’t disabled. I’m just mom. Just because you’re disabled doesn’t mean you aren’t active in your children’s lives. You may take a different, less physical role, but being their cheerleader, homework tutor, chef, nurse, confidant, writing critic, audience, fellow music lover, and the like are just as important as teaching them how to play soccer. If you are confident and positive about your own worth, I guarantee your kids will be too.

[@shannonhensley2942]

@@pinkmonkeybird2644 I personally believe that "through sickness and in health" is bull. Most people who make that vow do it at the peak of their life where most feel invincible. Getting old is the in sickness part or dealing with bad flu "in sickness" means. However disability is by far that last reason anyone should leave. She's clearly very much the same person. And he clearly is very determined to love the woman he married because she hasn't changed. Loving her as she is makes him a lovely person but not a saint. Staying makes him worthy of her love but doesn't give him any brownie point.

[@jenpinkerton773]

There is plenty of great men in the world that will look past any disability. It's true. I see it every day. And your children will love you for you. You're the mum. Nothing else. Only strangers who are not kindhearted look at people differently. Not husband's boyfriend's or children.

[@shannonhensley2942]

@Andrea Wylie divorce rates are at 50% for a lot of reasons. Mostly because they get married to young and to early and find out later it was never what they wanted in the first place.

[@fenecofeneco19]

@@pinkmonkeybird2644 oh please ,you are more bragging than helping here. 90% of videos with interabled people on the internet are between a disabled man and a (often beautiful) abled woman. You got lucky dear,many disabled women if they will get attention it will be from creeps and fetishists not men who would feel comfortable being seen with them..even when they are beautiful. It's not about them not deserving love,it's men being men.

[@rhondaholland719]

That husband is a keeper for sure 💕

[@talesfromtheleashbernieamy1960]

I too had a SAH @age 32. Idk why but I miraculously recovered without MAJOR physical impairments. I did have brain function changes. Memory changes & personality changes. Balance also affected. To simply survive is MIRACULOUS! Thanks for sharing your story.

[@yougotaluvme]

God was with you🙏🏿

[@thequeenofhope4006]

Her husband is so selfless even though he knew that she probably couldn't achieve being a doctor but he still didn't want to stop her dreams or stop her from trying. Even though it took her 2 years to realize it. I live with a disability as well and I know it's hard to come to grips that you can't achieve your dreams due to your disability.

[@river8760]

Jo is so inspirational and strong. She’s been through so much and perseveres through it all. I’m glad she’s doing so well. Leon is very resilient and strong too, wishing them all the best.

[@ashnkksmom2264]

I love her she is so determined to recover and get her life back to a new normal. I love her husband he is so supportive of her loving to her. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@shelley5008]

Connor is an incredibly loving young lad! Well done young man! You’re truly a joy!

[@amyh5872]

Bless them, it is a struggle. Foryself just figuring out what I can still do, sort of reinvent myself. Never give up, be hard to know what help I need. With God on my sideenyal emotional challenge. Best wishes

[@maasoomahabdul8872]

Wow. An honest account of a happy marriage. See marriage is not all about happy times and lovely talks. There are good times and bad times. There are disappointments and depression. And there is that sense of love and responsibility that helps to defeat the problems.😊😊

[@margaretsofocleous8137]

My husband had a major stroke in 2013 due to stopping aspirin to have surgery on an impacted wisdom tooth. He had atrial fibrillation which was a huge factor. I was so lucky to come downstairs and find him in time . I had gone upstairs to bed but came back down because I had forgotten to take my water upstairs. He had been watching football and within 15minutes of leaving him he had the stroke .Thank God I had forgotten my water I probably would have fallen asleep. From the start he suffered pain from a sublexation of his shoulder and spacticity . He had a bad water infection that can cause pneumonia that nearly went unnoticed and ended up after having a few fits due to infection that went unnoticed and eventually after an MRI 4 years later it was discovered he had discitus an infection in his spine. This was the cause of most of his pain and as it was left untreated for so long he has all sorts of problems due to him not being able to mobilise properly. He is haemaplegic. Such a shame as he started to walk a little in the beginning though with terrible pain. Things went unnoticed even though he was in a rehabilitation hospital for 6 weeks 4 months after his stroke but they put everything down to neuropathic pain and he eventually ended up being on lots of drugs including morphine without a proper diagnosis. In 2018 I took him to A and E on the advice of our family doctor whereupon they discharged him at 2 am after doing an x ray .9 hours later I took him back insisting there was something wrong and after waiting another 6 hours to be seen a nurse ordered an MRI where he was properly diagnosed. It was 6 weeks of treatment and they insisted on rolling him and holding him on his side to make sure he didn't get pressure sores even though he was screaming in excruciating pain . My husband had never had a pressure sore in my care as he had a gel seat and an air matress .Because he objected, to add insult to injury they did a deprivation of liberty order so they could do anything without the family objecting . I discovered they weren't giving his medication at the appropriate time so he was suffering unnecessary pain and then having to give him extra medication which made him apathetic and drowsy. So of course he couldn't answer all of the doctors questions but he knew enough to tell me the correct name of one doctor who he met for the first time and he told me that the doctor asked him about dying. The doctor who was in mental health asked him what he thought if he would fall asleep and never wake up. My husband astutely asked me if they thought he wanted to die. Thank God my husband's social worker, who knew us well informed them that my husband had the capacity and had always expressed that he wanted to live at home with his family and not in an institution. We live in Cyprus now where my husband has family and we have many friends. We spend more time out side than in the house and enjoy being near the sea. I have many regrets and sometimes think should I have sued but it would solve nothing and prefer to look ahead not behind. I am so pleased at the excellent care and progress that Jo has made and continues to make . It is so hard to see a loved one suffering and to go through almost a grieving process for the life that once was but we are strong and we do not give up . I can really empathise with all the emotions you have experienced. Keep strong and be positive. The younger you are the better the outcome. Thank you so much for sharing

[@torioriorio1998]

I know exactly how she feels. I have episodic apraxia and it's the most frustrating thing in the world to know what you want to say but to not be able to get your mouth and voice to form the word properly. "Frustrating" is a word I've said many a time just like she did. I'm lucky mine isn't permanent. She's so inspirational!

[@TwitchyMoth]

I work with a kid that had similar speach problems. And with time it got really easy to understand. And she is working so fucking hard. Props

[@katherinee.9105]

i feel awful that she has so much she wants to express but has these blocks. i hope we can find new ways to help her through technology. she's such a fierce and strong person and deserves to have her career back. being trapped inside your head is terrifying, but she's fighting and that's incredible.

[@Dexy83]

What an incredible family, and Connor is such a sweet, compassionate boy. That's a testament to their parenting even though the struggles. A lot of 2nd babies talk slower.... My brother didn't speak until he was over 2 because I spoke for him 😉 💞

[@MerryMixerUnboxing]

This!!!! Especially if Connor is used to helping his mom speak, he'll naturally want to do the same for his younger siblings. I did it for my younger brother as well and my father did for his younger brother. It also helps them bond, and the older sibling is just happy and proud to be able to do something to help.

[@jancollins6878]

My husband suffered brain injury in a car accident. His short term memory was the worst and most lasting loss. Very hard for both of us but we worked at readjusting and had another 37 years after the first seven. Those years were very different from each other and my husband was not the same man I married, but we made those years happy for the most part. God bless you both.

[@vickyvkusnyatina6126]

I have been following her since she did her first video right after her brain injury for years until now and she's nothing short of a warrior. She is such a hardworking fighter and she's absolutely amazing. Love this family and their joint strength and determination

[@Mike-br7ri]

Dr Jo, you are so amazing and I truly admire your tenacity and drive. I'm a 60y/o Southern man living with Athetoid Cerebral Palsy so I can also understand your frustration, especially living with Dysarthria as my speech is often poor too... Your family is just beautiful, Conner is my kid of kid and your baby girl is so cute. Stick with the journey Leon as depresion is ok, I suffer from this as well - real men do cry, I do too...

[@Amped4Life]

I am thankful for this channel and thankful for getting to "meet" this beautiful family. Jo and her husband are an amazing pair, and I truly identify with understanding how hard a sudden change in a wife's ability level can impact a spouse (although we do not have kids yet, I've been through a undiagnosed mystery illness in which I kept injuring myself more permanently the longer I went undiagnosed). It takes immense time, effort, trust, love, listening, self-reflection, and therapy to build a stronger life, love, and marriage through illness or injury. I'm blessed to have my husband and so is Jo! I'm proud of this family and appreciate Attitude for connecting me, an American, to this awesome Kiwi family. Sending love from the USA!

[@collygodbod7012]

She's a tough cookie! If anyone can get themselves back to where they were before the brain hemorrhage, it would be Jo. :)

[@catherinerice607]

I really feel blessed and encouraged, watching Dr. Jo & Leon's experience about brain injury. I was in a serious car accident six months ago, suffered a concussion/TBI. TBI has completely changed my life. I am learning how to adjust to my new life. Thanks Jo & Leon, you certainly inspired me. God Bless.

[@malloriestancil]

With the words she does speak, she is very clear! I can understand pretty clearly even without the subtitles! Jo, you rock!

[@BeaverAmik]

I had a ICB over two years ago. I was fortunate that is wasn’t severe and wasn’t from an aneurysm either so I have no deficits. I am grateful for each day I have. Jo you are amazing! God bless you and your family!

[@alliannawalters9128]

I almost cried watching this because my mom has tramatic brain injury and it has been 26 years since her accident and she can speak but it is still hard to get the right words for her

[@favourchild.]

Her husband is such a great, nice, lovely and patience man I have ever seen, I wish you guys the best of luck .

[@jennyscranton8433]

Well at least she knows her husband loves her unconditionally I think untimately thats really want everyone wants unconditional love

[@stefanieebling8919]

As someone who has worked in healthcare with people like her and other similar struggles, her speech is wonderful. This is the first video I've seen and I'm so happy for her and the rest of the family.

[@kc2334]

So inspiring, and such a lovely family. My dad had a stroke back at 51 in 2013, survived and went through rehab. This stroke affected him physically more so than verbally but still so frustrating for him not being able to use the right side of his body. He had another massive brain bleed on May 31, 2020 and passed away. Any stories with brain bleeds hits close to home for me. Keep strong, I know it’s frustrating but you are doing a wonderful job.

[@tiffanijordan45]

Sorry bout ur dad may he rest in Paradise praying for an ur family

[@carolemuenzer5490]

I had brain surgery three years ago, the trip back is hard work. Glad you shared this so more people can understand. I can remember when I would finally understand what they were telling me, the light goes on. I still have some memory issues but short term memory loss. Some days are always better than others. I am somewhat sad for who I used to be. Leon you are a gem this has been very hard on my husband as well. My best to you both keep improving God can see you through.

[@Glotglot]

I think this will seem a bit smarmy..? But Jo's husband is a good person, husband, man, partner etc. I used to be director of a Brain Injury Association. Our work was primarily teaching others about the various causes and outcomes from brain injury. It is fairly rare to see these traits in a spouse of the injured. I'm grateful it went the right way for Jo. We developed caregiver support groups, brain injury support groups, and at one point we did a brain injury survey in our local prison system. The results really startled the prison leadership, because it showed that at least 20 percent of the prisoners tested anecdotally positive for brain injuries. That got a lot of attention and I spent a few months traveling to conferences sharing the development, process and results. We had a lending library full of materials to help survivors and their partners. I'm curious whether you can, or did find similar resources where you live. My resources are common with Brain Injury Associations across America.

[@leonbirt7531]

Thanks Dorothy. We’ve had some help through the Stroke Foundation here but nothing like you describe. We have been in contact a few times with others in NZ who have gone through similar things, but not in any formalised way. I guess there might be Associations out there that I don’t know about :)

[@carolbrownleehalbert3593]

SHE IS DOING A WONDERFUL JOB AT EVERYTHING!!! AND HAS SUCH A GREAT ATTITUDE ABOUT EVERYTHING!!!

[@NinaS___]

She could get an alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) app on the iphone/ipad. To use in situations in shops, on the phone etc. - in cases where the other person doesn't understand the message (communication repair). It's possible to store messages in a feature called "Hold that thought", or store phrases to certain buttons. Not to use instead of speech in everyday situations, just a backup option.

[@HelenaMikas]

What a real family you are .This has been an ordeal plus +++ but you have You have overcome and what a fabulous outcome .My career was working with language and speech ( only with children ) Watching her I wanted to say well done .Children take around 2-3 years Adults can take longer ------ she is amazing .They both are You all bring so much love , hope and joy to the world ...👍Greetings from Berlin :)

[@debby6079]

An inspiring, honest and courageous glimpse of two very wonderful people. Thank you for sharing your challenges and joys of your lives.

[@julie5668]

Utterly devastating and so cruel. I am full of admiration for them both and wish Jo all the success she deserves to fulfill her dreams.

[@kysssims8764]

This truly made my day!!🤗.. I’ve been waiting for an update on Dr Jo. I’m so happy to see she’s doing so well in her recovery and congrats on the new addition to the family!! God bless!

[@kathyinwonderlandl.a.8934]

I’ve watched another show on this Amazingly strong woman.. she is an inspiration to us all to persevere through things, we all need pick me ups and this story is one

[@aleksandarj.8369]

This guy has really strong mind and great hearth. God bless your family. You will go through

[@amjeck]

I have followed your story and i am so amazed. My mother had to relearn how to speak and i know how frustration can affect you. But you are an amazing woman and i would love it if you could help others with your similar problems. You have a lovely family and i hope they all bring you much joy in your life.

[@stuckinstitches]

What a wonderful father/husband being so patient and loving! Jo I wish you the best, you are doing s fantastic job with everything!!!! Keep it up! You can do this!!

[@valerief1231]

Thank you for doing a follow up, so happy to see this lovely family thriving and working thru what would break so many relationships.

[@user-mc9kb3by2z]

Wow. You two are amazing. Jo made me excited by saying "Depression is real". Wish you the best which is possible and a lot of joy. Love from Israel

[@Mrs.TJTaylor]

My goodness! Those are a couple of darling kids! Edit: I had a mild medical brain injury. I lost a lot of ability and I slept around the clock for two years. I won’t ever be who I was before. I know that. And progress is hard and slow. As Dr. Jo says, it’s frustrating. But life is still good. What I would ask of everyone who loves a brain injured person, please be patient, please give us time. You don’t know how much it hurts when we realize that you aren’t interested enough to give us a few extra minutes.

[@carolineevans7062]

You guys rock , love the amazing way you deal with things. Thank you for being honest , it is a gift to everyone. Beautiful family.

[@miosen7100]

Amazing family,! Hard life but they are doing it with such understanding for eachother....even the son! With this parents the children will grow up to be strong and good people! I wish them all a good life with much love and joy!

[@h.smith.6586]

How frustrating this must be for her. Obviously she's very intelligent and can't communicate the way she wants.....yet.

[@arielfowler6244]

I am happy he stayed, so many men would have left but instead he stayed right with her and continued to build their life together. She is amazing, there isn't much else to say other than she is amazing.

[@helentully5247]

What an amazing couple, knowing the struggles they have BOTH went through shows us all that no matter what life throws at us, you work at it together and can accomplish heck of a lot together. How inspiring they both are xx

[@Moerocha62]

What a beautiful family. So courageous and strong. I just love little Conner. Wise beyond his years. My second born (a daughter) barely spoke because her older brother spoke for her! She caught up after age 3. Now she a university student! So don’t worry. You are all such an inspiration! Many Blessings, 🙏🏻💜👼🏻✝️😇

[@julibeswick-valentine3690]

What an amazingly honest and heart breaking account of their life. Massive credit to them for battling through and making so much progress.

[@marthahoffman9858]

Omg you and your entire family are an inspiration. Everyone should have a great spouse, as you both are. Thanks for sharing. Connor is adorable and has such wisdom. You all show how precious life is and how a family is everything needed. Wishing you nothing the best!

[@curiousgeorge6921]

Life is fragile really

[@heatherstiara8033]

My husband has aphasia from a stroke. We’re young. But a cold caused him to have an infection that got into his heart that caused a stroke. I’m thankful his heart is better. But he has limited movement on his right side and has problems speaking and understanding. It’s so hard to see him struggle. He was an electrical engineer before. Really good with numbers. Now, he can barely understand if I tell him the time. My heart goes out to her husband. I’m so thankful we don’t have kids. I am not sure I would’ve survived the month in the hospital, the 2 months of inpatient rehab, and everything else with kids on top of it. (We already had the pandemic... his stroke happened feb 2020. I was banned from seeing him at rehab for a month. It was horrible). Anybody who is dealing with this... it gets better. It took a while, but my husband is finally acting like himself again. He’s making corny jokes, like he always did. And some days are harder than others. But with God, we’re going to make it.

[@majoroldladyakamom6948]

I have an older brother who is 62, and in a 60 mph motorcycle accident in 1981 and no helmet on, T-Boned a sedan roll cage when someone ran a red light. I was 21, he was 23, in the US Military on his second Tour. I have been medically disabled for over a decade now, but have a heart for differently abled people for almost 40 years... my big brother. May God keep this and all other families well, especially mentally and financially. Perhaps the dad can take the older son out to play ball, go on short walks together, go to the soccer field and kick around the ball, get a children's (LITTLE TYKES) basketball hoop for the driveway, have the dad and me time? Mom can watch from the balcony or join in? Great PT for her? My brother is 3/4 paralyzed on half of his body (and tongue). Many challenges, being differently abled, and for the family as well. Very long journeys, for everyone involved. Thanks for the vids. Very inspiring! Stay safe, everyone, from your eternal sister in Christ in the USA.

[@MichelleKiwiGirlCrawfordvocals]

Hope you continue to live a happy and fulfilling life, Jo! You and Leon are a great couple who really support each other through the highs and lows of life, that's true love!

[@theresarasche3173]

Conner is such a precious little boy and so empathetic ❤

[@zoeesperanza6704]

Jo, you are an Amazing, strong, courageous, brave, and intelligent woman.

[@keishadoyle7235]

Blah I'm crying! I thought being a mum who could never run, jump, skip or kneel down was going to be debilitating for me to bond with my children but after seeing this, Jo struggles to speak and has an amazing bond with her kids. Its very inspiring! I hope I have her patience

[@liquidlunch3826]

A incredible family! They really meant their marriage vows...in sick and in health! No one know what can happen in life and what roles we will have play in our family! Beautiful parents and it shows in their beautiful son!

[@uiuiuiuiuo]

Connor... what a legend !!! , we adults can learn a lot from him... "I think my Mum is amazing, it doesn't matter if anyone has disabilities or anything that makes them different". You've got this guys, you have an amazing family. Hugs to you all xo

[@metta2666]

to Dear husband, i say thank you, thank you for been there. god bless

[@lyricalaska]

Dr. Jo Scott is doing exceptionally well following such a massive brain haemorrhage. Kudos to her!!

[@tiny3705]

She is such a strong and powerful woman. It must be so frustrating. She is truly amazing.

[@rainylaviana4659]

I'm so proud of her period look what she accomplished in a short period of time what inspired me about her she keeps pushing keep going girl you got this💪

[@macclift9956]

"Because I'm the best person who understands her in the whole entire world." You're the best Connor! Well done!

[@felicitymemela1963]

This broke my heart 😪 yet it inspired me at the same time, made me understand what determination & never giving up means I hope & pray that she gets her speech back

[@tevir2desjr]

Your family is really an inspiration to millions out there. . . Keep going forward. . . .God bless and Keep SAFE during this pandemic we are all in. . .. 7-26-2020

[@RedMommy8885]

So sad. She is such a wonderful woman mother and person.but she needed to help the world. But she needed the words help too. So glad she is ok and still working hard to do better. He is a great husband. Sticking by her side .not taking the easy way out

[@myroom4640]

What a wonderful and compassionate little boy they have!!!! Yes you’re right little fella! It does NOT matter if one has a disability: we are ALL human ; with feelings and emotions and pain. We shouldn’t be treated any differently than the average person. They are wonderful parents, and this shines through: in the attitude of this little child. Blessings to your family ………

[@MsCmeehan]

Wow, you are doing great and I’m not sure I could do what you’ve done. As for comments on sign language it shows others are ‘temporarily able bodied.” I used to be until multiple sclerosis. Both of you shine!

[@dinushblau4247]

What an incredible husband. Lucky wife and husband having best best life!!! This is what men love best to do. They have gorgeous kids and a very smart oldest. May God bless this special family.

[@karenjames953]

I love this family. He is the very best husband in the world. And she does her darnedest to keep getting better. And I really think she will.

[@rhondaholland719]

What a beautiful strong and real family. The ways you have learned to cope are both amazing and inspirational. God Bless you all

[@mjmckitty5758]

Jo, Leon, Connor, and Alannah are all rock stars!

[@elysharay2130]

Truly an amazing story. So much can change in the blink of an eye! I was so intrigued by their story, getting irritated at all the ads interrupting every few minutes while sitting on the edge of my seat!

[@lav5597]

I am a tbi survivor and I can relate and understand how difficult it it .

[@briannaoffutt]

Jo and Leon- thank you for putting yourself out there. You have a lovely family and you both are handling these challenges beautifully. Sometimes just getting through the day is a victory. ❤

[@sawyerk19]

That kids EQ is through the roof