Posts in Life

Post-Surgery Update

Feeling a bit yucky but staying optimistic! After two weeks in NYC, I finally got the clearance to head home and continue my rehab there. It’s been a tough ride, but I’m ready to keep pushing forward. Home sweet home, here I come!

#PostSurgery #RecoveryJourney #FeelingOptimistic #NYCToHome #RehabAtHome #Healing #StayStrong #ValGalStar

From Therapy to Passion: My Pickleball Journey

Fourteen weeks ago, I picked up a pickleball paddle as part of my physical therapy, never imagining it would become a passion. What started as a way to heal has turned into something much bigger—I’ve fallen in love with the sport. I never thought I’d be competing in the main draw of a PPA Tour event, but here I am.

Today, I realized that my body is capable of so much more than I once believed. I can handle the competition, I can push myself, and I can thrive at this level. While I know there’s still a long road ahead in this sport, I’m loving every moment of the journey.

I’m so grateful for my health and the ability to play sports again, and I feel ready for whatever challenges come my way. This experience has taught me the power of strength, belief, and courage.

Here’s to the road ahead and embracing every part of it!

#PhysicalTherapy #Strength #Courage #BackToSport #Pickleball #PPATour #Healing #PlayPickleball #PickleballFun

Back in the Game: My Journey of Recovery and Strength

Getting back to sports has been an incredible experience! After months of rehabilitation and hard work, I’m thrilled to share that last week, I placed in my first tennis tournament since returning to the court. It felt amazing to compete again, and the sense of accomplishment was like nothing else.

This week, I’m taking on a new challenge at the Atlanta Slam – PPA Pickleball Tournament, and I’m excited to announce that I’ve made it through to the main draw! Every step of this journey has been a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and believing in yourself.

Wish me luck as I continue pushing forward. To anyone going through their own recovery, remember: #RecoveryIsPossible. Keep believing, stay strong, and never give up on your dreams!

#Rehabilitation #Strength #BackToSport #BelieveInYourself #Pickleball #Tennis #Courage #Inspiration

Pushing Through

Looking back, I didn’t know it at the time, but during my last tournament, I played on a broken ankle. It wasn’t until after that day I found out the extent of the injury. It’s crazy how determined we can be, even when our bodies are telling us otherwise. Another lesson in resilience!

#ToughTimes #BrokenAnkle #TournamentLife #Resilience #MindOverMatter #HealingJourney #StayStrong #ValGalStar

Living the Dream

Just a girl chasing her dreams, getting ready to play in the junior national finals here in Florida. It’s an amazing feeling to be back on the court and competing at this level. Here’s to hard work, passion, and the journey ahead!

#LivingTheDream #JuniorNationalFinals #FloridaTennis #HardWorkPaysOff #ChasingGoals #OnTheCourt #ValGalStar

Giving Back: Volunteering at Faces of Courage Cancer Camp

My siblings and I spent time volunteering in the kitchen at the Faces of Courage Cancer Camp. It was an incredible experience to give back and support such a meaningful cause.

#Volunteering #FacesOfCourage #CancerCamp #GivingBack #FamilySupport #ValGalStar

Disney Adventure with Crutches and a Wheelchair

Visited Disney with crutches and a wheelchair. It was challenging to get around, but my siblings were incredible in helping me through it. Despite the difficulties, I’m so thankful for their support and the magical experience!

#DisneyAdventure #CrutchesAndWheelchair #FamilySupport #Grateful #ValGalStar

Finally Losing the Crutches and Aiming for 100% Weight Bearing

I’m finally losing the crutches and working towards being 100% weight-bearing. The HSS Physical Therapy Athletic Division has been amazing throughout this journey. Their support has been invaluable!

#WeightBearing #PhysicalTherapy #CrutchFree #HSS #RecoveryJourney #ValGalStar

Back on the Court after HSS

Visited HSS and got the chance to hit some tennis balls for 20 minutes. Sitting on a chair while hitting felt a bit odd, but I was so grateful to be back out there!

#TennisReturn #HSS #Grateful #RecoveryJourney #ValGalStar