Brock’s WARRIOR Story

Brock Taylor

My name is Brock Taylor. I am a retired firefighter with 31 years of service in the Littleton area. I am also the father of a special needs daughter who was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, hypertonia, and a seizure disorder. My daughter Courtney required total care her entire life. Feeding, dressing, and bathing. I absolutely loved both jobs! These stresses eventually led to the end of my 29-year marriage.

Over the years, Courtney required several orthopedic surgeries, a Baclofen pump implant to deliver muscle relaxant medicine to decrease spasticity in her body, and eventually the placement of a g-tube for feeding. While in the process of grieving my divorce, my work schedule drastically changed. I was working 48 hours on and 96 hours off. My off hours were constantly caring for Courtney. I had no breaks. This went on for two years.

A decline in Courtney’s health, coupled with the shift change, helped me make the decision to retire. Twenty days after my retirement, Courtney passed away. My marriage, my career, and my daughter were all gone. The things that I loved were gone! I did nothing for six months following this.

As an attempt to pick myself up, I went to work for Littleton Public Schools. I trained to be a bus driver, and then drove a special needs school bus for 6 years. Prostate problems forced me to retire again, this time fully. It was at this time that I began my new past time of playing pickleball.

While attending an event with fellow firefighters, a friend recognized my PTSD signs, and invited me to a yoga session with Sharon Wheeler. Sharon’s understanding and compassion for my suffering was the medicine my body and soul needed. I started weekly yoga sessions with Sharon and continue with my healing. The power of the warrior is hard for me to explain, but the tranquility that I am experiencing is very welcome!

Since starting yoga, I have learned to recognize and reduce my anxiety. This in turn has allowed me to move forward with many stalled projects, including remodeling my house. I am feeling grounded and safe, allowing growth in relationships. I have also noticed that I fall asleep easier, and sleep more soundly. I am more consistent in caring for myself, which in turn, adds to my confidence. I look forward to continuing these gradual positive changes and living a more complete and fulfilling future.

 Sincerely,

Retired Firefighter Brock Taylor