Hope Discovered

This episode of the Hope Discovered podcast explores the often-overlooked mental and emotional impact of being suddenly sidelined by injury or illness.CommQuest CEO, Elaine Russell Reolfi, shares her personal experience of recovering from a severe ankle injury and the unexpected psychological toll of immobility, loss of independence, and disrupted routines. Joined by Dr. Michelle Heberling, Chief Clinical Officer, and Osamuedemen D. Iyoha, M.D., Medical Director of Psychiatric Services, the conversation normalizes feelings such as frustration, grief, anxiety, and depression that frequently arise after sudden health changes. The clinicians explain common emotional phases people experience—from initial crisis and over-planning to exhaustion and grief—and emphasize that these reactions are typical, not signs of weakness.The discussion also focuses on how mental health directly affects physical healing and recovery. The panel offers practical guidance for patients and loved ones, including pacing oneself, setting