Hi Marilee,

I am glad that my experiences can help. You are definitely not alone and are not crazy. I had these same thoughts early into this injury. I still have my moments.

A hard thing is remembering that you are not alone. Friends and family help. You need to ask for help. You may be very independant like me and find this an issue. Also some friends/family may not understand. My circle of friends is much smaller since the accident. I also just gave my family a copy of the TBI Guide. You might try this with your husband -- give him a section at a time. I also try to remember to tell my family/friends at every opportunity how much their support means to me.

You asked about driving and for me that's a tricky subject. I live near a major city with a great transit system. In the beginning when I could not drive, my friends and family stepped up to the plate and drove me if needed. I greatly limit my driving to nice weather and short trips. I do not drive in the city. I ask friends to drive me to doctor's appointments, etc.

As for doctor's appointments, Mark had some good ideas. Also, my TBI doc gave me some great advice that works for me. Ask a friend to drive you if possible. Wear your sunglasses and earplugs. Have your friend actually guide you into the office so you do not have to deal with all the crowds, etc. When you get to the appointment, explain that you suffer from light/noise sensitivity and ask to be put in the first available exam room. In the exam room, turn the lights off and do relaxation techniques. Doing this has worked wonders for me. Every doctor's staff has been very accomodating. I always make mention to the doctor how much I appreciated the staff's help.

I am glad the sunglasses and earplugs worked. If you are self-conscious of the earplugs, you can add a Ipod. Some people play classical music to drown out the background noise.

My reading is very slow and I also have memry issues, so I also keep re-reading the TBI Guide.

Mark and CS had some great comments in their posts. Check out your other possible injuries. Keeping a journal is a great idea. Be wary of meds.

As for you questions about social activities, I'll respond in another post. My energy is low this morning.

Good luck with your appointment. Remember recovery is a marathon not a sprint.

Best wishes!