Deborah Johnston

Deborah Johnston sustained a brain injury following surgery on an aneurysm in 2015. Here, she explains how a new-found creative activity has helped her to cope with feelings of isolation and anxiety:

“I have been feeling very lonely since my husband went back to work. This and the headaches I have been getting recently after a year with none have made me feel a bit edgy.

“My sister suggested painting rocks, so I got some acrylic paint and pens, painted a couple of stones and then my husband came up with an idea about painting on slate.

I have never painted before, but I found it so relaxing and I surprised myself. It certainly helps calm you down, just a tip for other people with brain injuries at this time.