The Invisible Injury with Stefanie Shadduck

Episode Description

What if the most life-changing injury is one that no one can see?

In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Stefanie Shadduck, Traumatic Brain Injury Program Director at Idaho State University, to discuss the realities of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and why it is often called the "invisible injury."

From concussions and falls to motor vehicle crashes and military service, traumatic brain injuries affect thousands of Idahoans every year. Yet many people never receive a diagnosis, struggle to find resources, or don't realize that ongoing memory, concentration, fatigue, or emotional changes may be connected to a brain injury.

Stefanie shares how Idaho is working to improve TBI screening, connect people with resources, and strengthen systems of care—especially in rural communities where services can be difficult to access. She also reflects on her own experience with "chemo brain" during cancer treatment, offering a deeply personal perspective on what it feels like to live with an invisible cognitive challenge.

This conversation explores resilience, recovery, and the importance of building communities and systems that help people thrive after brain injury.

About Our Guest

Stefanie Shadduck is the Traumatic Brain Injury Program Director at Idaho State University, where she leads statewide efforts to improve access to TBI resources through education, systems coordination, and community partnerships.

Her work focuses on helping individuals, families, healthcare providers, and organizations better navigate the complex landscape of brain injury services across Idaho. She also trains university students to recognize traumatic brain injuries and connects them with communities through outreach and health fairs.

Drawing on both professional expertise and personal experience with cognitive challenges during cancer treatment, Stefanie brings a compassionate and practical perspective to conversations about brain health, recovery, and independence.

You can learn more at Idaho Traumatic Brain Injury Program and the Brain Injury Association of Idaho. Email Stefanie at stefanieshadduck@isu.edu.