Dr. Maya Novak

The Mindful Injury Recovery Talks with Dr. Maya Novak

Dr. Maya Novak

  • Bruce (BJ) Miller, MD - Life After Amputation and How to Thrive in Adversity

Bruce (BJ) Miller, MD - Life After Amputation and How to Thrive in Adversity

Tuesday 21st May 2024

Dr. BJ Miller shares his journey from trauma to thriving, discussing identity, loss, and resilience in this inspiring episode.
60 minutes
Inspiring
Hopeful
Informative
Compassionate
Supportive

About this podcast

The Mindful Injury Recovery Talks with Dr. Maya Novak
Author:
Dr. Maya Novak
Overview:
Categories:
Mindful Recovery
Innovative Healing Arts
Healing from Sexual Trauma
Recovery from Trauma
Healing Relationships
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Episodes:
68 (View all)
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Thriving After Trauma: Dr. BJ Miller's Journey

Episode Overview

  • Your identity is not defined by your physical body.
  • It's normal to feel a range of emotions during recovery.
  • Societal perceptions of disability are evolving.
  • Phantom limb pain is a common neurological phenomenon.
  • Empathy and self-acceptance are crucial in the healing process.
You may lose parts of your physical body – but you are still you
Dr. Maya Novak hosts an extraordinary conversation with Dr. BJ Miller, a palliative care physician who shares his journey of life after a traumatic accident that led to the amputation of three limbs. This episode of 'The Mindful Injury Recovery Talks' dives deep into themes of identity, loss, and resilience. Dr. Miller recounts his experience of being electrocuted by 11,000 volts, which resulted in severe burns and the eventual amputation of his limbs.
Yet, he emphasises that despite losing parts of his physical body, his core identity remained intact. His insights into the emotional and psychological aspects of recovery are both moving and enlightening. He discusses the spectrum of emotions he faced—from pity to self-pity—and how he navigated these feelings to find a new sense of normalcy and self-worth. Dr.
Miller also touches on the societal perceptions of disability and how they have evolved over time, sharing personal anecdotes that highlight both the challenges and triumphs he encountered. He explains the concept of phantom limb pain and how the brain adapts to such significant changes, offering practical advice for those experiencing similar conditions. The conversation is not just about surviving but thriving in adversity. Dr.
Miller's reflections on empathy, caregiving, and the importance of allowing oneself to feel and process pain are invaluable. His message is clear: you are more than your physical body, and your worth is not diminished by your circumstances. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with physical trauma, caregivers, or those simply seeking inspiration to overcome life's challenges.