About Courtney
Courtney demonstrates a strong commitment to effecting positive change, dedicating significant time to advocacy and education. Her first speaking engagement was at just eleven years old, when she spoke at the University of New Hampshire about her survival story. During this event, she covered topics such as: Life still goes on, just more inventive. How to turn a traumatic experience into a positive outlook. Since then, she has presented her survivor story at colleges and local organizations, utilizing her narrative to inspire and motivate audiences. Her storytelling integrates advanced communication skills with personal experience, consistently conveying themes of resilience and empowerment.
In 2003, Courtney received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, with minors in Marketing and Sociology, from American International College in Springfield, MA. She graduated magna cum laude, ranking in the top 10% of her class. Her advocacy efforts were recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire, acknowledging her volunteer work at organizations such as the Area Agency of Greater Nashua and The Plus Company, Inc. These organizations aim to empower adults with disabilities to achieve greater independence through tailored support, education, and services. Courtney’s leadership and dedication established her as a role model for adults pursuing increased independence.
In 2014, Courtney was selected as one of eleven speakers at the Debby Hoffman Adair Motivation-A-Thon, an event that raised funds for Boston Children’s Hospital and individuals with special needs. Subsequently, she was invited to serve as the keynote speaker at Debby Hoffman Adair’s “In the Presence of Positive Women” retreat, where she addressed the topic of forgiveness.
During her college years, Courtney continued to share her experiences of overcoming adversity and personal development through presentations across Western Massachusetts. As a motivational speaker and traumatic brain injury survivor, her narrative exemplifies resilience and hope, providing inspiration to others facing comparable challenges. She engages audiences by openly discussing her journey toward acceptance and fulfillment. Her empathetic approach encourages individuals to reflect on their own experiences and pursue personal growth.
Courtney continues to educate the public about traumatic brain injury and its significant impact on individuals and their families. She attributes her survival to the Holy Spirit, which sustains her ongoing commitment to advocacy and positive change.
After awakening from a three-month coma in December 1988, Courtney reflected on her initial condition: “I was like a baby, learning to do everything over again, but as a nine-year-old. Drinking from a cup, chewing, swallowing, talking, walking, and other fundamental skills were all issues I had to relearn. Before I could speak, I communicated with people using an ABC board to spell out how I was feeling and what I needed.”
When Courtney returned to school in 1989, she initially experienced a sense of belonging. Surrounded by both new faces and familiar friends, she remained optimistic about integrating into the school community. Over time, however, she became increasingly aware of her differences. Activities and conversations that appeared effortless for other students often left her feeling uncertain and excluded.
Courtney is committed to raising awareness about traumatic brain injury and its significant effects on individuals and their families. Through sharing her experiences, she provides hope, understanding, and encouragement to others confronting similar obstacles.
Her faith shapes her outlook on life and helps her find meaning even in the most difficult moments. Her unwavering trust in God is a constant source of inner strength, providing her with both courage and serenity as she navigates the obstacles she faces each day. No matter how overwhelming the challenges may seem, Courtney draws comfort from her spiritual convictions, allowing her to persevere and maintain hope for the future. Through her powerful story of overcoming adversity and discovering new purpose, she aims to inspire and uplift her audience. Courtney’s journey has not been without hardship, but her
faith continually guides her through each trial. When faced with unexpected setbacks or moments of doubt, she turns to prayer and reflection, drawing on her relationship with God to renew her sense of purpose. This spiritual foundation not only sustains her during times of adversity but also enriches her everyday experiences, inspiring gratitude and compassion.
Create Your Own Website With Webador