Self Rebalanced

In the fifth episode of the Life Rebalanced Chronicles - Self Rebalanced - we shed light on the "loss of self" and inner darkness many face due to the devastating impacts of vestibular impairment, and how people cope in the face of such adversity. The physical, mental, emotional and social challenges vestibular disorders can cause take a toll on our sense of who we are. Many tasks that were once second nature are now difficult or impossible. We can’t count on how we will be feeling on any given day, and often have to cancel plans. Many people can no longer work, lose their careers and may need help with basic daily activities. Feelings of self-doubt and shame batter down our identity. Uncertainty about what may happen (“Will I ever get better?”) further erodes our fragile reserves on inner strength.
However, many people say that they have learned things about themselves during this journey. They have become more compassionate and empathetic, and adapted to a slower pace of life. Some express their newfound insights through creative endeavors. Overall, many report that despite their difficulties, having a vestibular disorder has impacted their identities in positive ways.
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Life Rebalanced Chronicles documents the stories of nine vestibular warriors. None of them expected to be knocked down by a vestibular disorder. All of them looked fear, anxiety, and loneliness in the face and said, “You will not define me.” Their message is one of hope for everyone who struggles with invisible chronic illness and others who are navigating life’s challenges. The new six-episode docuseries will air weekly starting August 10, in conjunction with Balance Awareness Week (Sept. 19-25, 2021). The series is a collaboration between the Vestibular Disorder Association (VeDA) and Kimberly Warner, filmmaker and founder of Unfixed Media and the Unfixed Community youtube channel. In 2015, Kimberly was diagnosed with cervicogenic vertigo and Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS) that manifests as a constant perception of rocking, bobbing and swaying.
The Life Rebalanced Chronicles documents nine vestibular patients who are learning to live with disorders such as vestibular migraines, MdDS, Meniere’s Disease and vestibular neuritis. Through intimate conversations, they explore parts of the human experience impacted by their vestibular dysfunction - mind, body, spirit, relationships, self and life. They also share their personal toolkits for living and thriving with their disorders and provide strategies from meditation, yoga and journaling to advocacy and finding meaning and purpose within their “new normal.”
“This honest and inspiring docuseries shines a light on invisible balance disorders and brings more awareness and empathy to the vestibular experience,” says Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of VeDA. “We are honored to work with filmmaker and vestibular patient Kimberly Warner, who brings lived experience to each episode as she compassionately helps each individual share their unique journey toward healing and hope.”
About VeDA
For almost 30 years, VeDA has been a highly respected source of scientifically credible information on vestibular disorders. Through publications and an online community, VeDA has reached millions of vestibular patients with critical information and support. The organization provides education and emotional support to patients with dizziness and imbalance. They connect patients with medical specialists through a provider directory of clinics that specialize in diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders. VeDA advocates on behalf of all who are impacted by vestibular disorders. For more information, visit vestibular.org/
About Unfixed Media
Unfixed Media Productions was created by award-winning producer and filmmaker Kimberly Warner and focuses on stories of humans living with chronic, incurable conditions. People love fixer-upper stories, miracle cures and answers but many wake up each day without any of these. The world needs more models for how to live a meaningful, unfixed life - a life liberated from fixed notions of how we must feel in order to live fully. The Unfixed portfolio of projects demonstrates that living well is not about eradicating our wounds and weaknesses but understanding how they complete our identities and equip us to help others. Programming includes Life Rebalanced Chronicles docuseries, the MS Confidential webcast series, the Unfixed Podcast, and the ongoing Unfixed monthly docuseries (and future feature film) available on The Disorder Channel and the Unfixed Community TH-cam Channel. For more information, visit www.unfixedmedia.com/
Director - Producer - Editor: Kimberly Warner
Segment Director/Producer: Mia Allen
Graphics: David McLaughlin

[@debbies9424]

I’ve had complete bilateral vestibular loss for four years now. And I can truly relate to everyone in this video. I held a full time and a part time job before all this happened to me.. I now have disability but truly wasn’t ready to retire early for this. Not being able to drive is one of the hardest things to live without. I’ve had depression and severe anxiety. But there’s always hope I’ve checked back into a rehab place near me that works on balance. I have hopes I can get some more of my mobility back 🙂

[@alleyarvieux7220]

I've cried every video that has come out. I am so, thankful to have advocates like you sharing our stories through your stories. Love you all!

[@VestibularVeDA]

Thank you for watching and for your feedback!

[@ClaireAify]

Where there’s life there is hope.

[@nancewarner2547]

Life seems to be a letting go process for each of us in this human journey. Those of you who let go of your body’s sense of control are brave warriors, teachers and pioneers of new vistas for ALL of us. Thank you, thank you….

[@aliciam9568]

I watched this and cried. I have so much love for all of you. You are amazing advocates in every way. Thank you for giving others hope. ❤️

[@UnfixedCommunity]

You must've watched it on Roku or Amazon Fire? So glad you resonated with it. You are also an incredible advocate and we love your voice within this community. xo

[@VestibularVeDA]

Thanks so much for watching and for your feedback.

[@noahmanchego1721]

Tremendous bravery. Thanks for sharing your stories.

[@violetmontenegro]

Warriors!!! Thank you for inspiring me! For giving me hope 🤍!!!!

[@julieshenk7640]

Thank u. Excellent truth.

[@roshanwright3436]

Such a helpful video series for all of us Vesties! This will definitely encourage those new to their disorder as well as those of us dealing with these disorders for a long time. I am no longer alone and have shared hope. Useful for sharing onward to friends and family too. I see so.e of my vestie friends made this film and I am so proud of you all xx Rosalind

[@bethanywhitehead609]

I love this episode the most!! It is one of the hardest things to adjust to your new, slower way of life!🥴 Thank-you once again for sharing your stories with us fellow vestibular friends!💖

[@VestibularVeDA]

Thank you for watching and for your feedback!

[@beckyberrett2415]

I'm still trying to cope with it. I question still if I will ever get there!

[@VestibularVeDA]

HI Becky, Let us know if we can help by emailing us at [e-mail] or by calling 800-837-8428. You can also take a look at our support resources at vestibular.org

[@beckyberrett2415]

@@VestibularVeDA Thank you so much! I am still at the denial stage I guess, maybe still a little angry. Is there a good place to refer to about diet?

[@beckyberrett2415]

I will do all that you suggested. I spoke before I saw the resources available.

[@VestibularVeDA]

@@beckyberrett2415 Hi Becky, There are articles about how dietary changes may help with symptoms and other topics. Use search bar at the top of our home page. www..vestibular.org