The Ghost in my Brain

Posted on May 26, 2023 (May 26, 2023) by Dr. Holly Ternus

We are starting Brain Injury Awareness Month with reviewing book that is an intimate and personal account of suffering from a concussion.

The Ghost in my Brain
Clark Elliott

Clark had a short blackout as the result of a fairly minor automobile accident. His symptoms were anything but minor. For over a decade he dealt with pain in his skull, balance problems, thinking for long period of time and nausea. He was repeatedly told by doctors that he would have to learn to live with his symptoms.

Eventually Clark crossed paths with an optometrist and cognitive psychologist working on cutting edge research in brain plasticity. Through his connection with them and their new treatments and exercises was able to achieve a full recovery from symptoms.

His book chronicles his journey from the moment of his injury through to recovery. It is a fascinatingly detailed account of his rehabilitation and opens up a window to and unique narrative of the complex workings of our human brain. This book gives hope to millions who suffer from brain injuries every year.

For more information view Elliott Clarks website here or visit the College of Optometrists in Vision Development website here.

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Written by Dr. Holly Ternus

Dr. Holly Ternus is originally from Torrington, Wyoming, and graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in biological sciences. She graduated with Honors from The New England College of Optometry and completed internships with Honors at South Boston Community Health Center with an emphasis in glaucoma and narrow-angle glaucoma, Togus Veterans Affairs Medical Center with an emphasis in ocular disease, Lifetime Eyecare in Houston fitting specialty contact lenses, and Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.

Dr. Ternus practiced with ophthalmology in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, specializing in ocular disease, dry eye disease, and emergency care. She then transitioned into primary care, fitting specialty contacts for keratoconus, post-RK, corneal ectasia, and irregular corneas.

Dr. Ternus is an active member of the Nebraska Optometric Association, American Optometry Association, and American Academy of Optometry. She received her fellowship with the American Academy of Optometry in 2018 and is a graduate of the Nebraska Optometric Association’s Leadership Institute. She also received her fellowship in the Scleral Lens Education Society and is the first in Nebraska to have completed this honor.

Outside of work, Dr. Ternus enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 children, snowboarding, skiing, water sports, watching Husker football, and everything that involves being outdoors.

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