18: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose with Gabriella Kostiew

Tony Stark's Hero Up Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with 20 year old, college student Gabby Kostiew, a true example of perseverance. Gabby shares her incredible journey of overcoming the obstacles she faced in life, particularly surrounding her soccer career and the multiple concussions she endured. From a young age, Gabby was passionate about soccer, and her transition to becoming a goalkeeper only deepened her love for the sport. However, after suffering a severe concussion during a game, Gabby's life took an unexpected turn.

She opens up about living with post-concussion syndrome, facing daily migraines, and the challenges that came with it, including difficulties with processing information and maintaining her academic performance. Despite all these hurdles, Gabby’s work ethic and determination helped her excel in school and beyond. Her story is one of resilience, and now, she’s turning her experiences into a career in special education, advocating for students with disabilities.

Gabby’s insights into overcoming personal pain, developing coping strategies, and shifting her focus after leaving soccer behind show us the power of a strong support system and a positive attitude.

Key Points Covered:

• Gabby's passion for soccer and becoming a goalkeeper.
• The severe concussion that changed her life and the impact of post-concussion syndrome.
• Coping with daily migraines and processing difficulties while staying on top of her academics.
• How a strong support system and determination helped her succeed despite the challenges.
• The emotional process of leaving soccer behind and finding new activities.
• Gabby's career in special education and her advocacy for students with disabilities.
• The importance of empathy and perseverance when facing pain and adversity.

Be sure to subscribe to Hero Up for more stories of resilience, strength, and everyday heroes who make a difference in their communities.

Connect with Gabby:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabbykostiew/

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Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark