The Voyage

There is no particular chronology to the reflections and stories offered here. The intentional randomness is meant to be a mosaic of experiences that, I hope, add up to a compelling big picture.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The original purpose of this site was to chronicle the journey of Dennis and Mary Ann Watson as they navigated his medical and experimental treatments for a brain injury. Sadly, Dennis’s March 2025 passing brought this purpose to a close. But the blog will continue with Mary Ann’s reflections on how to live through grief and keep the relentless need to “Make It Count” as a motivating life force. We hope you’ll find a reason to keep checking it.

Mary Ann Watson 11/30/21 Mary Ann Watson 11/30/21

Embattled

“At least we have good health insurance.”

That was the only thought that brought me any comfort in the early days of Dennis’ stay in the nursing home.

Mary Ann Watson 10/13/21 Mary Ann Watson 10/13/21

When Providence Says, “Not So Fast”

Imagine yourself as the lead character in the following absolutely true story…

Mary Ann Watson 9/1/21 Mary Ann Watson 9/1/21

The Big Divides

Nothing could have prepared me for the unimaginable trauma of my husband’s brain injury. It was a lightning bolt of devastation. Not only separating life into before and after—but totally redefining the meaning of “after.”