Natalia Rybczynski, a resident of Ottawa, used to firmly believe that hard work and determination could lead to achieving any goal. As a paleontologist specializing in the Canadian High Arctic, she delved into studying ancient ecosystems, such as the presence of camels in Canada’s Far North millions of years ago. Rybczynski was accustomed to facing challenges head-on, leading research expeditions, mentoring students, securing grants, and publishing research findings. She sustained a concussion while training for a ski race in 2011, resulting in memory loss and a sore jaw.
Despite being told by her doctor that her concussion symptoms would subside in about ten days, Rybczynski’s life took a drastic turn after the incident during a night ski in the Gatineau Hills. The concussion left her disoriented, struggling to perform simple tasks like finding toothpaste. Despite the initial diagnosis and reassurance that the symptoms would fade, Rybczynski’s condition worsened, especially during a trip to Antarctica a month later.
During the Antarctica expedition, her symptoms intensified, causing nausea and difficulty in engaging with others. The turbulent Drake Passage further aggravated her condition, leading to memory lapses and extreme fatigue upon returning home. Despite encountering skepticism from some doctors attributing her symptoms to anxiety, Rybczynski persisted with recommended therapies in hopes of returning to her normal life.
In 2014, she was diagnosed with post-concussion postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, characterized by severe fatigue and lightheadedness. Despite intermittent improvements and the support of medication, Rybczynski struggled with fluctuating symptoms, often overexerting herself on better days. It took four years post-injury for a doctor’s note to confirm her inability to resume full-time work, leading to her retirement in 2016.
Having to relinquish her career and facing the challenges of daily activities, Rybczynski found solace in her supportive family and husband. While coming to terms with her altered reality, she learned to listen to her body’s needs and accept her limitations. Transitioning from her previous positive-thinking approach, she embraced a new outlook focused on acknowledging her symptoms and finding a balance between hope and acceptance.
In 2024, Rybczynski made a significant achievement by returning to fieldwork in the High Arctic, despite ongoing symptoms. Through continued therapies and a newfound appreciation for small joys, she navigates the complexities of her healing journey, finding beauty in life’s simple pleasures. Embracing the messy middle of recovery, Rybczynski remains hopeful for further improvements while cherishing the present moment.
