From Survival to Strength
Inspiring Talks on Resilience, Recovery, and Hope
“SPEECHLESS is a riveting memoir of a young mother, wife and speech pathologist that I recommend without reservation for all medical professionals, therapists, educators, loved ones and those living with post intensive care syndrome (PICS). It teaches and unites the essence required of all healthcare professionals beyond textbook knowledge. It’s a story of strength, community, courage and overcoming that will inspire you in ways you hadn’t imagined. It is a must-read page-turner!”
~ Lilyanna Zmijak, PhD CCC-SLP
About Vanessa
Vanessa is an author, speech pathologist, and critical illness survivor who offers a deeply personal and professional perspective on recovery. Having survived Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) a rare neurological disease that left her paralyzed, tube-fed, and reliant on assistive technology, she intimately understands the challenges of both patients and healthcare providers.
Her journey of recovery was not just physical but emotional, involving struggles with depression, anxiety, and the grief of losing her former self. Through her speaking engagements, Vanessa shares powerful insights into resilience, recovery, and the emotional aspects of surviving a critical illness.
Speaking Topics
Vanessa customizes her presentations to fit the needs of her audience, covering topics such as:
1.
Understanding Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS)
• Exploring the emotional and psychological effects of PICS on both patients and their families
• Why emotional well-being is just as important as physical recovery
2.
A Survivor’s Story: The Reality of Critical Illness Recovery
• Firsthand experience of being tube-fed, paralyzed, and using assistive technology to communicate
• Coping with depression, anxiety, and grief while rediscovering a new sense of self
3.
The Grief of Losing Your Former Self
• Accepting identity loss after illness and rebuilding a new future
• How grief affects both the patient and their loved ones
4.
Supporting Emotional Health in Recovery
• Addressing mental health challenges like PTSD, depression, and anxiety during rehabilitation
• Strategies for caregivers and healthcare providers to support emotional recovery
5.
The Role of Caregivers & Healthcare Providers
• How families and professionals can offer meaningful support to PICS survivors
• Managing stress and navigating difficult emotions in patient-centered care
6.
Practical Insights for Students & Future Healthcare Professionals
• Integrating empathy and emotional intelligence into healthcare practices
• Understanding the emotional side of patient recovery and rehabilitation
7.
Behind the Book: A Deep Dive for Book Clubs
• The story behind Vanessa’s book, her writing process, and the emotional journey of sharing her experience
• Engaging discussions on resilience, survival, and personal transformation
Understanding PICS Part 1: The Survivor Perspective
This live recorded webinar shares the personal experiences of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) from Intensive Care Unit patient survivors and their loved ones.
Clinicians need to understand the immense harms of delirium and immobility and promote culture that facilitates an environment where patients can be awake, communicative, autonomous and mobile, even when connected to a ventilator
Why Book Vanessa as a Speaker?
Choosing Vanessa as a speaker means bringing both personal experience and professional expertise to your audience.
Authentic, Firsthand Experience
Vanessa speaks from experience, sharing the realities of surviving a critical illness, battling depression, and reclaiming her identity. Her story resonates deeply with audiences of all backgrounds.
Dual Perspective: Survivor & Speech Pathologist
Her expertise as both a healthcare professional and a patient offers unique insights into recovery and rehabilitation, benefitting both caregivers and future practitioners.
Actionable Takeaways
Every talk includes practical strategies for supporting emotional well-being, applicable in medical settings, rehabilitation, and home care environments.
Empathy & Inspiration
Vanessa’s story is one of resilience, strength, and transformation. Her goal is to inspire others to approach patient care with greater compassion, emotional awareness, and understanding.
Engaging Book Club Events
For book clubs, Vanessa offers an interactive experience, answering questions, discussing her book’s themes, and connecting deeply with readers.
Types of Events Vanessa Speaks At
Vanessa is available for both in-person and virtual engagements at a variety of events:
• Medical & Healthcare Conferences
• Professional Development Workshops for healthcare providers
• Family & Caregiver Support Groups
• University Lectures & Graduate Programs (Healthcare, Social Work, Psychology, Education)
• Community Awareness Programs on PICS & Recovery
• Book Clubs & Author Discussions
Frequently
Asked
Questions
How do I book Vanessa for a speaking engagement?
Does Vanessa offer virtual speaking engagements?
How long are Vanessa’s presentations?
Does Vanessa tailor her presentations for different audiences?
Can Vanessa participate in Q&A sessions?
Book Vanessa for Your Next Event
Ready to bring Vanessa’s inspiring story to your audience?
Contact
vanessa.abraham@aneuhealing.com
Availability
Vanessa is available for both in-person and virtual events.
Let’s talk
Share your event details, and let’s create a powerful and meaningful experience for your audience.