Kelly Brush is a woman of many hats—a mother, wife, daughter, sister, former nurse, and an athlete, just to name a few. She’s also— the inspiration behind the Kelly Brush Foundation, created to inspire and empower people with spinal cord injuries to lead active and engaged lives.
On February 18, 2006, Kelly’s entire life changed when she experienced a spinal cord injury from an Alpine Ski accident. With her dreams of becoming a professional athlete shattered, Kelly began to build a new life. And she did. After more than three months in hospitals and another three months adapting to familiar places from the unfamiliar perspective of a wheelchair, Kelly returned to college in the Fall. Kelly went on to graduate college, get married, become a mother to two beautiful children, and become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. She continues to ski, bike, play tennis, and, when able, surf.
Embracing Change
At a new crossroads in early 2023, Kelly felt inspired to make a big change. She recently retired from her career as a nurse practitioner and needed some clarity about her next steps, so she enrolled in the Chopra Health Retreat at CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa in Carefree, Arizona.
I had the great pleasure of being at the retreat with Kelly and could tell immediately when I met her that I was in the presence of someone powerful. She is a true woman of service. Part of what struck me deeply about our interactions was that she was so direct and clear. I admired the moments when she asked for help and when she didn’t. To be in our power and to know limitations and honor our strength is such a gift.
I immediately got curious about her decision to be at the retreat and I’m so glad I asked. She is a reminder to us all that no obstacle is too big, and that our self-love and determination is really up to us. We get to decide.
Kelly’s Experience: Time for Contemplation and Renewal
It was a pleasure to speak with Kelly, and I hope learning more about her experience at the retreat inspires you to explore your unique purpose and tune in to your true self.
Authentic Connections
“The entire week was so contemplative both in the way I spent my time by myself and with others. We cut straight through…and got to know people so much more because we knew we were all there for an important reason.”.
Practices for Self-Care
“I can look at the things I really loved – meditation, yoga, and massage every day was incredible. You can’t go wrong there. Five days of contemplative time – especially for somebody like me with young kids, a busy foundation, and being able to slow it down to five miles an hour for five days. That part alone was amazing.
The Tools of Ayurveda
“I was one of those people who went without realizing it was a detox, so I was nervous about it and then amazed at how this particular detox felt easy to do.
“Everything we talked about was spot on and made so much sense to me. I didn’t really know much about Ayurveda – understanding the doshas and knowing what I can do to bring things back into balance. I loved learning about things I could be doing to make me feel good.
Spa Therapy
“The spa was incredible and to be able to use the saltwater pool and the hot therapy, I know that helped to ground me in my imbalances while I was there. It was fabulous.”
A Moment of Clarity
“I just left my job working as a nurse practitioner. I was contemplating where my new balance is and how I’m supposed to spend my time now… At one point during the meditation, I heard: ‘It’s KBF time.’ I needed to get clear that it’s time to spend all my time and energy on my organization.”
“I was able to come home and feel ready to take on this next phase of my life where I’m really focused on my foundation.”
The Path Forward
Upon returning home, Kelly has jumped right in and is enjoying her newfound clarity. The Kelly Brush Foundation just finished its 18th Annual Kelly Brush Ride. Releasing her resistance to this big change has allowed her to stop questioning her decision and to enjoy and grow in the process.
One of the hallmarks of the Kelly Brush Foundation is its dedication to raising funds that directly translate into positive impact. To date, the foundation has raised $15.7 million, which has been instrumental in providing adaptive sports equipment, supporting ski racing safety initiatives, and offering grants to individuals with spinal cord injuries for adaptive sports and recreation.
The mission never stops, with 18,000 new spinal cord injuries in the U.S. each year. The Kelly Brush Foundation is committed to helping people find confidence, independence, and happiness through sports. There are many ways for you to support—visit their website to learn more.