About Ali Rheaume

Grew up in Blackstone, MA
Former Elementary School Physical Education instructor, High School, Field Hockey, Softball & Track Coach, and Kids Ministry Director
Passion for people
Connector - love bringing people together
Creative Individual (studio art)
Collegiate Field Hockey Athlete
Fun Fact: “Love Nature and will live in a treehouse if I could”

Discussion Topics

A Journey of Physical Activities & Health

From an overweight kid to a “gym rat”
Early years: Soccer, Field Hockey, Softball, etc.
Adult years: Crossfit Athlete, Zumba Instructor, Paddle-board instructor, runner (casual 70 miles a week)

Total Shift - sustaining a traumatic brain injury (life-changing)

The impact of functioning at a 10% level

Physiological changes
Physical adjustments
Emotional adjustments - “we can't wait to get the old Ali back”
Setting new goals
Celebrate the small successes/the current moment and not be so quick to jump into the future

The days of challenges & frustrations

“I felt alone”
In the deepest, darkest times, jump into scripture
Allow yourself to go through the process of emotions
Remember your WHY (it will allow you to go much further, to eliminate comparisons)

The will to fight (Why & How?)

Lessons learned through the journey

You’re worth it
Communication & Advocacy
The importance of setting boundaries
Do you only see people because of a common ground of a physical location, or are your relationships beyond that?
There is no shame in slowing down

Reflecting on the injury - Why you?

Utilizing Social Platforms to be a light

What does the future look like for Ali?

NOTE: We are grateful to Ali for the knowledge, wisdom, and being an inspiration, a gift to the world! We look forward to having you back!