Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDa) Ambassador, Kevin Roux, Takes His Steps-2-Balance

The Vestibular Disorder Association (VeDA) today announced their annual call to all those living with a vestibular condition, to challenge themselves in taking a step forward on their journey back to balance.

From May 17-23, 2020, VeDA is asking vestibular patients across the world to set a personal recovery goal and organize a virtual activity to achieve it. While vestibular patients are often restricted in their everyday mobility, many forms of exercise or movement can help them improve their balance. Regardless of where a patient is on their road to recovery, anyone can find an opportunity to take a “step” forward and participate in Steps-2-Balance.

Steps-2-Balance Ambassador, Kevin Roux, was a normal high school football player who sustained a concussion during a game. “The culture of football is that ‘pain is food,’” says Kevin, “so I pushed on.”

Kevin suffered from constant but invisible symptoms, including vertigo, anxiety, dizziness, migraines and memory loss, which prevented him from performing normal daily activities, such as studying for school. For over ten years, Kevin consulted with numerous doctors and specialists trying to find answers. He was put on many medications, which only made him feel worse. One doctor told him, “You’ll feel better when the settlement comes through.”

Kevin tried treatments such as physical therapy, hyperbaric oxygen chamber and IV infusions. Some of the treatments provided temporary relief from one or two symptoms but nothing ever “cured” him.

After college Kevin was unable to secure employment, so he had to move back in with his parents. This was his lowest point. “I started to give up hope,” he says.

Kevin’s mother couldn’t take seeing him in pain, so she joined his crusade.

After much research, Kevin discovered a functional neurologist, who explained how his brain and vestibular system were affected by the concussion, and developed a customized therapy treatment plan.

“Throughout my treatment one of the most healing aspects was getting to talk to other patients who dealt with the same kind of symptoms,” says Kevin. This passion motivated Kevin to begin a vestibular support group through VeDA.

Today, Kevin works as an assistant to the functional neurologist who was so helpful to him. To others who suffer from undiagnosed vestibular illnesses Kevin says: “You are not alone; never give up! You never know where your life will take you and who you might positively impact because of your injury or disorder.”

HOW DOES STEPS-2-BALANCE WEEK WORK?

We encourage all vestibular patients to:

• Register for Steps-2-Balance
• Identify a personal recovery goal or challenge
• Organize a virtual activity
• Invite others to join in their activity online and to support VeDA
• Document and share their Steps-2-Balance experience via email and/or social media

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

Anyone with a vestibular condition and their loved ones. Healthcare professionals are also encouraged to organize a Steps-2-Balance virtual event. VeDA Ambassadors, Board Members, staff, and supporters will be joining as well.

WHERE DOES IT TAKE PLACE?

Online. Be safe, shelter in place, and use Zoom, Facebook Live, or other online platforms to hold your virtual event.

WHY DOES THIS INITIATIVE HELP?

Steps-2-Balance shines a light on the challenges faced by people with chronic dizziness and imbalance. On the road to recovery from vestibular illness, it’s important to continue to challenge ourselves, and to gain a sense of accomplishment with the progress we make—even the small steps matter. And when we all takes steps forward together, albeit in our own homes or neighborhoods, we grow our sense of shared community—that we’re not alone on this journey to regain balance.

If you would like to find out more about VeDA or the Steps-2-Balance Week please contact:

Press contact:

Cynthia Ryan

503.294.9085

ed@vestibular.org

About VeDA: The Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) is the leading international organization people turn to for help with vestibular (inner ear and brain) disorders. They are an authoritative resource, publishing information that is clear, reliable, and scientifically objective. VeDA supports people with vestibular disorders by connecting them to health care specialists and support networks. VeDA promotes awareness for vestibular disorders through testimony and advocacy.

About Vestibular Disorders Association

For almost 30 years, VeDA has been a highly respected source of scientifically credible information on vestibular disorders. Through our publications and online community, VeDA has reached millions of vestibular patients with critical information and support. We provide education and emotional support to patients with dizziness and imbalance. We connect patients with medical specialists through our provider directory of clinics that specialize in diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders. We advocate on behalf of all who are impacted by vestibular disorders.