Celebrating Powerful Women: The Journey of Joanne Schmidt

Joanne in the Early Days

I dedicate this blog to my first powerful woman, Joanne Schmidt. After a severe head injury, she bravely continued to build her business, Galloping Cows. The slogan on her webpage reads "Female Founded, Family Operated." I salute her as an incredible individual who faced the real challenges of post-concussion syndrome. With the support of her husband, she found ways to overcome. I admire her tenacity and courage, and his patience and perseverance.

Embracing Technology as We Age

I am a senior lady creating a webpage. Yes, I am over 65, which, according to many, is the new 45. Right? Of course! My head is spinning, but to keep up in this technological world, we older folks have no choice. We must keep our minds active and sharp to keep up with life's demands.

At some point, I will post websites that help with brain exercises and activities for maintaining brain health. Brain studies show that activities requiring thinking are essential for keeping our minds sharp. This can include playing cards, chess, board games, and making jigsaw puzzles. Reading, walking, and drinking lots of water are also beneficial. Engaging our brains keeps different parts firing, allowing us to retrain and strengthen our thinking. When suffering with an invisible injury or illness, we need to do all we can to stay healthy and well.

The Danger of Passive Activities

In contrast, passive activities, such as sitting in front of a television all day, allows us to absorb rather than engage our minds. Unless the show stimulates our brain cells, we need to be cautious about how much you/we "activate" our brain. Engaging in cognitive activities can help prevent early dementia and other cognitive decline.

With a focus on neuroplasticity, we can retrain our brains with practice. There is nothing holding us back if we actively pursue change and are willing to put in the work. The entire concept of neuroplasticity is quite compelling.

The Role of Writing in Recovery

My occupational therapist explained that my ability to write remained intact because the part of my brain responsible for it was well-developed. The lessons I taught remained accessible, but I struggled with mundane tasks, often forgetting things repeatedly. Did I mention forgetting? The ability to think and speak on our feet is a skill that only comes with lots of practice and determination, thus making for powerful women.

A challenging fall stripped me of my teaching career for over nine years. However, I am back, creating a platform for writing and sharing information. While this format isn't the same as teaching in a classroom, I have a much larger audience. I lost a great deal but also gained a new perspective. It’s common that unexpected trauma brings both challenges and unexpected benefits.

Finding Joy in the Simple Things

For now, it’s just me and my screen. I delve into subjects I'm curious about—both past struggles and current interests. My goal is to help others not be their own worst enemies. If I can encourage people to be kinder to themselves, I will have made a mark. Helping folks believe in themselves is essential—the sun will shine again for everyone as we empower others.

I continue to deal with PCS (Post-concussion symptoms) and often forget if "concussion" should have a capital "C." I struggle with simple tasks like adjusting the car windows or remembering more than three things at once. But with pacing and balance, I feel more like myself, since January 2025.

Learning and Sharing Insight

Through my journey, I've learned a wealth of information about head injuries and the resources available for recovery. I want to share this knowledge so that others may not feel alone. Many people face disability, pain, mental stress, or simply getting out of bed on tough days. It's important to remind ourselves that it's okay not to be how we once were.

There is an excellent verse in my memoir by Laura-Ding Edwards about what to do if the mountain is too high to climb. This line comforts me on particularly hard days. I still read it when flustered or overwhelmed.

The brain heals over time, but pushing too hard won't speed that process. Being out of shape has its consequences. I can expect sore muscles and mental fatigue, leading to occasional stuttering.

Expanding Resources for Others

I want to use expert resources and links in my writing, focusing on the educational books I've created over decades. My blogs will serve as valuable resources for anyone seeking support.

I extend a heartfelt congratulations to Joanne and Ron Schmidt, along with their children, for their extraordinary work in establishing and maintaining Galloping Cows amid life's challenges. Joanne is a woman of power who deserves empathy and support. I salute her and her fight to thrive.

A Call to Celebrate Strong Women

Let's appreciate strong women who light the way for others with their humility and determination to move forward. Together, we can join the "herd" in celebrating powerful women. Do you know any? Reach out and share a powerful woman in your life!

A Powerful Woman

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A Herd of Galloping Cows