Cazoshay Marie 10/22/25 Cazoshay Marie 10/22/25

Invisible Disabilities Week: Classic Books on YouTube Perfect for Autumn

October 19-25 is Invisible Disabilities Week. I am living with several non-apparent disabilities and chronic conditions, particularly a traumatic brain injury.

I am an avid reader! I have been for my entire life. My mother taught me to read when I was three and I’ve been going strong ever since! I come from a family of readers, our garages have always housed books, not cars.

Reading is very difficult for me with having a brain injury. It causes headaches, dizziness, nausea…all kinds of things. So I’ve turned to audiobooks in order to still be able to enjoy literature.

I’ve compiled a list of five classic audiobooks available for free on YouTube that are great for cozy autumn reads. What would you add to this list?

Pride & Prejudice-Jane Austen’s beloved classic of wit and romance follows Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, class, and first impressions in Regency-era England. A timeless exploration of pride, prejudice, and the power of understanding.

Macbeth-Shakespeare’s dark tragedy of ambition and fate tells the story of a Scottish nobleman whose lust for power leads to murder, madness, and downfall. A haunting look at how unchecked desire corrupts the soul.

Jane Eyre-Charlotte Brontë’s gothic masterpiece chronicles the life of an orphaned governess whose fiery spirit and moral strength defy the constraints of Victorian society. A tale of love, independence, and inner resilience.

The Scarlet Letter-Nathaniel Hawthorne’s tale of sin and redemption in Puritan New England centers on Hester Prynne, who bears the shame of an adulterous affair while reclaiming her dignity and identity.

Edgar Allen Poe Story Compilation-A chilling collection of Poe’s most haunting tales of mystery and the macabre. From The Tell-Tale Heart to The Fall of the House of Usher, these stories delve into madness, guilt, and the shadows of the human mind.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow-Washington Irving’s eerie American folktale follows schoolteacher Ichabod Crane and his fateful encounter with the ghostly Headless Horseman. A spooky blend of humor, superstition, and small-town lore.

©2025 Cazoshay Marie. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Cazoshay Marie with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

D.I.D. with Cazoshay and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on this blog is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health related program.

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 10/14/25 Cazoshay Marie 10/14/25

A Pirate Looks at 40

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 10/6/25 Cazoshay Marie 10/6/25

Joint Statement on Messaging

Joint Statement on Brain Injury

Brain Injury Organizations Release Joint Statement on Improving Communication about Brain Injury

The joint statement provides guidance on how healthcare providers, researchers, and the public can talk about brain injury to increase understanding.

Myself and a group of brain injury organizations and advocates have released a joint statement aimed at improving how brain injuries are discussed and understood. The guidance document, titled Communicating about Brain Injury was developed collaboratively by healthcare providers, researchers, and people with lived experience of brain injury.

The statement provides a definition of brain injury and its causes, that it can develop into a long-term chronic health condition, and that it can sometimes lead to disability. The statement also includes 12 things to consider when talking about brain injury. First among ideas to consider is that the traditional classification system of mild, moderate, and severe is overly simplistic and fails to predict long-term outcomes or recovery paths. This follows recent developments in the field of brain injury to introduce a new classification system.

"This joint statement represents a great collaboration between the leading brain injury organizations," said Rick Willis, President and CEO of the Brain Injury Association of America. "By working together, we’ve created guidance that can help ensure more clear and consistent communication between people with brain injury, caregivers, researchers, and healthcare professionals."

People with brain injuries should be seen as whole individuals and should be actively involved in decisions about their care. This joint statement highlights the importance of recognizing that brain injury effects can be dynamic, sometimes improving or changing over time, and that supportive relationships and lifestyle choices can significantly impact recovery outcomes.

The guidance was created by a diverse group of leading brain injury organizations including the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine's Brain Injury Interdisciplinary Special Interest Group, the Brain Injury Association of America and their Brain Injury Advisory Council, the National Association of State Head Injury Administrators, the North American Brain Injury Society, PINK Concussions, members of the former US Brain Injury Alliance, and the TBI Model Systems.

For more information and to view the statement, visit https://biausa.org/CommunicatingAboutBrainInjury.

Cazoshay Marie 8/5/25 Cazoshay Marie 8/5/25

Art Feature: When I Think of Home

“If you're listening, God

Please don't make it hard to know

If we should believe in things that we see

Tell us, should we run away

Should we try and stay

Or would it be better just to let things be?

Living here, in this brand new world

Might be a fantasy

But it taught me to love

So it's real, real to me”

It’s hard to pick a favorite Diana Ross song, there’s so many good ones, but it may have to be “Home” from “The Wiz.” It reminds me of my journey leaving my home state of Alaska, where I grew up, where my close friends are, most of my family, all the things I’m familiar with.

But being on this journey from Alaska to Oregon now to Arizona (and who knows where next???) has allowed me to experience things I would not have if I stayed where it was familiar. I probably could have gone without the near-death experience, but even that has lead to all kinds of great things I never thought possible before. It wasn’t all positive, but I’m still grateful for it all, and I’m especially grateful to God for keeping me through it all.

“And I've learned

That we must look inside our hearts to find

A world full of love

Like yours, like mine, like home...”🤍

🖼️: “When I Think of Home”, 16”x20” digital, 2025

Prints available soon!

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 7/31/25 Cazoshay Marie 7/31/25

Art Feature: Aziza Nō 2

This piece is entitled Aziza Nō 2 and is a part of my series of forest fairies from Benin folklore. I modeled his head after some propagated monstera leaves from a plant I’ve had since shortly after I moved here to Arizona.

Inspired by the mystical forest fairies of Benin mythology, each print in this series captures the spirit of the Aziza—guardians of nature, wisdom, and hidden realms.

Soon the series will be available as unique Polaroid prints!

Sized at 4 x 5.5 inches, these high-quality art prints mimic the nostalgic charm of vintage Polaroids while showcasing my vibrant, detailed digital artwork. Perfect for framing, pinning to a vision board, or gifting to a fellow art lover, these prints are a small but powerful way to invite folklore, beauty, and resilience into your everyday life.

Printed on premium cardstock with a soft matte finish for an elevated look and feel.

They’ll also be available in 5 x 7 inch premium linen prints.

✨ Collect them individually or as a set to build your own magical story.
🎨 Made with intention, love, and cultural pride.

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 7/28/25 Cazoshay Marie 7/28/25

New Feature: BlackDoctor.org

In May of 2017, I was hit by a car traveling 48 mph—launched 15 feet into the air and 100 feet forward. That moment changed everything. I sustained serious injuries, including a traumatic brain injury that kicked off daily battles with chronic migraines, vision issues, dizziness, fatigue—the kind of invisible struggles that people often don’t see, but survivors live with every single day.

This journey has been more than recovery—it’s been transformation. From physical therapy and vision therapy to counseling, I’ve found tools that help me navigate life anew. I’ve channeled pain into purpose: serving on the Brain Injury Association of America Advisory Council, facilitating virtual support groups, and even creating art and poetry as healing expressions. And there’s more on the horizon—workshops, events, and meaningful collaborations with organizations making a difference.

🗣️ Truth I’m spreading:

• Disabilities may be “invisible”, but they’re real. We have strengths, needs, and value.

• Accommodations matter. A little empathy goes a long way—slow down your speech, repeat when needed, don’t mistake someone taking time process to for something else.

• Community is everything. My family, church, community—they’re my backbone.

• Listen. Ask before assuming. Learn about brain injuries and how to support those living with them.

We are creative. We are passionate. We’re resilient. And we deserve spaces where our voices, visibility, and value are honored.

👉 Read my full story at https://blackdoctor.org/i-was-hit-by-a-car-at-48-mph-heres-how-im-redefining-disability/ and join me in amplifying awareness, compassion, and change.

#braininjury #advocate #braininjuryawareness #invisiblenomore #disabilityadvocate #biaa #blackdoctordotorg #disabilityawareness

Cazoshay Marie 7/24/25 Cazoshay Marie 7/24/25

Art Enables Exhibition

I’m honored to announce that my art piece, “Face Card Never Declines” will be featured at the Art Enables “Outside Forces” show in September in Washington, D.C.! I’ll be sharing more details on how to go see it, but here’s a little info to save:

September 2nd: The exhibition is open to the public

September 6th, 5 - 7 pm: Opening reception at Art Enables

October 25th: Final day of exhibition

I’m so excited to be featured alongside other disabled artists. This is my first official-official show after being struck by a car traveling 48mph in downtown Phoenix and becoming disabled. I call myself a “re-emerging artist” because I’ve been an artist almost my whole life, but after becoming disabled in 2017, I’m only just now able to create art again on a limited and modified basis. I feel very blessed!

If you’re in the DMV area, I hope you’ll stop by the exhibition!

#disabledartist #blackartist #artist #exhibition #artshow #resilience #creativity

Cazoshay Marie 7/17/25 Cazoshay Marie 7/17/25

Poetry Featured in the Creative Legacy Project

My poem, “Bobby D,” inspired by my Granddaddy, was included in the Creative Legacy Project by All Black Creatives.

From the project:

“Behind every creative is a story shaped by the people, places, and moments that make us who we are. The Creative Legacy Project invited Black creatives to share a photo from their past, a snapshot of childhood, a treasured family moment, or a place of deep meaning, alongside a reflection on how that image continues to shape their creative work today.”

— All Black Creatives

You can read my piece here.

Read "Bobby D" Here

Cazoshay Marie 6/16/25 Cazoshay Marie 6/16/25

Diversability D30 Impact List Nomination

I am thrilled to announce that I have been nominated to Diversability®‘s 5th Annual D-30 Disability Impact List! Thank you so much to everyone who nominated me for this honor, and who has supported my work in the disability community. Honorees are announced in July, so stay tuned to see if I am selected! #D30DisList #Diversability

Image Description: A navy and teal gradient background with white text center aligned. The words “#D30DisList” are at the top arched over the Diversability “D” logo. Below, text, “The D-30 Disability Impact List”; below that are the words “I am a 2025 Nominee” between two white laurels. A white Diversability Logo is centered at the bottom.

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 6/13/25 Cazoshay Marie 6/13/25

New Feature: The Educated Patient

My interview with The Educated Patient is live! Check it out and let me know what you think. Thank you to the Brain Injury Association of America for coordinating the interview.

Read it here: https://www.theeducatedpatient.com/view/cazoshay-marie-on-surviving-and-thriving-with-a-traumatic-brain-injury

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 5/22/25 Cazoshay Marie 5/22/25

EVENT: Poetry Presentation at AM:PM Gallery in Brooklyn, NY

Three of my poems will be presented at AM:PM Gallery in Brooklyn, New York during their Vulnerable, Not Broken group exhibition. Vulnerable Not Broken is a group art exhibition exploring mental health through the lens of vulnerability, resilience, and personal truth. In the exhibition, artists reflect on their experiences, challenge stigma, and celebrate the strength found in softness.

At AM:PM Gallery, their mission is to reshape the art industry by providing an inclusive platform that amplifies the visibility of local artists and fosters meaningful connections through culture and storytelling.

They are committed to creating a space that empowers and uplifts underrepresented voices, with a particular focus on BIPOC communities. Through thoughtfully curated exhibitions and active community engagement, they challenge traditional boundaries and inspire social change.

By supporting both emerging and established artists, AM:PM Gallery aims to make art more accessible, relevant, and transformative for everyone.

Learn more

See more on Instagram:

New African-inspired mask pins! 🎭✨
#WorksInProgress

Despite the nerve damage in my hands from my accident that makes them shake, I genuinely love creating these pieces.

Returning to wearable art has been deeply meaningful for me—because I b

For the month of May, I set a personal challenge: write a poem every single day. Whether it’s just a few lines or a full piece, the goal was simple—create daily.

As someone living with disabilities and chronic conditions, this practice

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 5/20/25 Cazoshay Marie 5/20/25

Arizona Suicide Prevention Coalition & BIPOC Mental Health Committee

I am honored to share that I have joined the Arizona Suicide Prevention Coalition as well as their BIPOC Mental Health Committee.

The Arizona Suicide Prevention Coalition is a dedicated community-based organization committed to preventing suicide and promoting mental health and well-being throughout Arizona.

The BIPOC Mental Health Committee is dedicated to addressing and improving mental health outcomes and suicide prevention efforts within Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities.

This committee recognizes the unique and systemic challenges that these communities face, including historical and ongoing trauma, cultural stigmas surrounding mental health, and disparities in access to quality care.

Every life matters. Together, we can prevent suicide and build a community of hope.

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

See what’s new on Instagram:

Serving up chic + conscious cuisine 💁🏽&zwj;♀️✨

As a girlie living with a TBI and chronic conditions, I know firsthand how important nourishing your body can be—especially when it comes to brain health. These vegan recipes aren’t just

Just wrapped up an amazing interview with @blackdoctororg coordinated by @bia_usa! 🎉🧠

We had an honest and empowering conversation about what it’s really like living with a brain injury—from the daily challenges to the strength it take

The vegan bagels were definitely the highlight. 🥯 I have noticed a BIG difference in the way I feel since going full-fledged vegan. One of the parts that I’m enjoying most is practicing discipline & mindfulness when it comes to what I eat.

Had a great interview with disabled civic leader Nico Meyering for the “Our Disabled Future” video series launching this Disability Pride Month (July).

Our Disabled Future is a powerful new interview series featuring real Disabled voices

Cazoshay Marie 4/25/25 Cazoshay Marie 4/25/25

Announcement: Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Disability History and Culture

I am honored to share that I have joined the committee to establish a National Museum of Disability History and Culture.

The National Museum of Disability History and Culture contributes to the movement toward disability justice by recognizing and celebrating the contributions of a diversity of people with disabilities to our nation’s political, social and cultural life.

Its mission is to research, uncover, preserve and present the history and culture of people with disabilities from dehumanization, discrimination and institutionalization to the movement for civil liberties, justice, equality, participation, and artistic representation.

Find out more about the museum here.

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 4/23/25 Cazoshay Marie 4/23/25

New Art Alert🚨

I really enjoy creating these secondhand mirror African mask-inspired pieces.🌍

These pieces invite viewers to engage with the work in a way that's both reflective and introspective. This medium challenges the viewer to explore the contrasts between themselves and the piece, while also considering how they are inherently part of it-literally seeing themselves within the art.

As someone whose life was permanently altered by a brain injury, my creative practice is rooted in lived experience and often reflects the complexities of disability, memory, and the body's relationship to space and time.

Because of the nerve damage from the accident, my hands shake when creating art, which adds a dynamic, unrepeatable element to each piece— infusing it with motion, vulnerability, and an organic sense of presence.

Follow for more of my art, advocacy + healing journey!!

Check out what’s new on Instagram!

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 4/16/25 Cazoshay Marie 4/16/25

Grief Open Mic Night

Last night I shared two deeply personal poems, “Leaves” and “Pain”, at the Palabras Bilingual Bookstore/ Casa Caracol open mic night. The theme was grief, and I spoke from the heart. (Watch my performance here.)

After being hit by a car going 48mph in downtown Phoenix, I found myself grieving so much:

— The person I was before becoming disabled

— The life I had planned for myself and my son

— The version of motherhood I had dreamed of

But through all the grief and loss, something beautiful has grown. Our life today is full, rich, and meaningful—and it keeps getting better. This was just the beginning. I can’t wait to share more of my poetry and art with you.

If you’re walking through grief or learning to love your “after”—you’re not alone. Follow along @collectedcazoshay for more of my journey through words, art, healing, and resilience.

You can view more of my art and poetry here.

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 4/7/25 Cazoshay Marie 4/7/25

Back in the Studio!

Back in the “studio” and feeling grateful.🎨

I finally felt well enough to add another layer of plaster to my upcycled African mask mirror piece today. Progress might be slow, but it’s still progress—and I’ll always celebrate that.

If you spotted the pink bandage on my arm, it’s from having my blood drawn earlier (yay self-care!). And yes… I somehow lost my glasses. For the first time ever. So I’m temporarily wearing an old backup pair until my new prescription ones come in. Honestly, with everything I’ve been balancing lately, I’m not surprised.

Living with a traumatic brain injury means that every task takes more energy—and when I add something to my plate, something else usually slips. (My fellow spoonies, I know you feel me!)

Right now, I’m juggling quite a bit:

• Creating and sharing my art

• Scheduling speaking engagements

• Serving on the advisory council for the Brain Injury Association of America

• Hosting my virtual support group for parents with brain injuries

• Curating a poetry series featuring brain injury survivors and caregivers

It’s a full plate, and I have to take frequent breaks. Even then, I usually suffer physically afterward. But by the grace of God, I’m still here. I’m still doing what I love and showing up for my community, especially after surviving being hit by a car going 48mph while crossing the street.

God is good. I’m creating. I’m healing. I’m grateful.🙏🏽

If you’re into art, advocacy, resilience, or rooting for people who keep going despite the odds—I’d love to have you follow my journey:

Instagram

TikTok

Don’t forget to register to attend the upcoming “In Our Own Words” virtual poetry event taking place April 19th! Celebrate Poetry Month with some amazing brain injury survivors and caregivers sharing their journeys of joy, triumph and resilience!

More Info

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations with which I am affiliated.

Cazoshay Marie 3/6/25 Cazoshay Marie 3/6/25

The 2025 Brain Injury Association of America’s National Brain Injury Conference and Awareness Day

Post coming soon, for now enjoy the pictures!

DAY 1

DAY 3

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations that I am affiliated with

Cazoshay Marie 3/3/25 Cazoshay Marie 3/3/25

"In Our Own Words" Virtual Poetry Event featuring Brain Injury Survivors & Caregivers Video

I am so excited to share the inaugural “In Our Own Words” virtual poetry event held last month featuring the voices of brain injury survivors and caregivers, hosted by Resilient Roots. You can watch the video here, and make sure to join us in April for the next “In Our Own Words” event on Zoom!

Info for Next Event

SEE WHAT’S NEW ON INSTAGRAM

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations that I am affiliated with.

Cazoshay Marie 3/1/25 Cazoshay Marie 3/1/25

Headed to Washington, D.C.!

Hair is done (by the AMAZING @trumane_hair_studio, seriously, you should have seen how crunchy it looked when I went in there 😆) so now I’m ready to head to D.C. with @bia_usa to advocate for the brain injury community by speaking with our legislators about some important initiatives we need their support on.

I’ve made my (packing) list, checked it twice, traveling while disabled is more naughty than nice! 😂 But regardless, Cazzy Claus is comin’, to toooowwwwn! Okay, obviously Christmas is my favorite holiday and bad jokes are my jam, but I’m taking this opportunity very seriously. It’s not often that you to get to be amongst this many individuals in the brain injury community, particularly while being able to speak directly to your representatives about the issues that affect us most.

I’m thinking about making a video sharing some of my trips for how I prepared for this trip in terms of packing-which is such a difficult thing to do when traveling (“What do I wear for this event?”, “What if we go out to eat afterwards?”, “What happens if it starts raining?”….“My silk press!!!”) but it’s even more difficult when you’re dealing with a brain injury or other disabilty. The cognitive load, not to mention the physical practicalities of packing and travel can be more than a challenge, so I think it would be helpful to share some of the things that make it more accessible for me.

You can head to biausa.org for more info about how you can support, even if you don’t have a brain injury yourself!💪🏽🧠

See you soon, D.C.!🎉

SEE WHAT’S NEW ON INSTAGRAM

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations that I am affiliated with.

Cazoshay Marie 2/1/25 Cazoshay Marie 2/1/25

Foods I've Eaten Lately As a Chic, Disabled (Plantbased) Girlie

Living with a traumatic brain injury & chronic conditions means that I need to be mindful of the foods I’m eating & my nutrition. We all need to do that really! But especially with my conditions, I have to give my body good food in order to be able to function & not worsen my symptoms.

Although not a full-fledged vegan, I am actually a certified raw vegan chef (I got certified at the same time I became a yoga instructor!), & am mostly plant-based as you’ll see from the dishes I made. But obviously I’m not giving up caviar.🖤

The opinions expressed on this site are that of my own and not reflective of, nor supported by, any of the organizations that I am affiliated with.