This lady doesn’t sing the blues

“Music inspires me and brings me a great deal of joy.  It’s what motivated me to take an active approach to my recovery and return to performing.”

In January of 1989, Shahida Nurullah, an accomplished jazz singer, was crossing Van Dyke and Kerchavel to catch the bus. She was hit by a car and woke up 2 ½ weeks later in the hospital with a broken arm, leg, knee, shoulder and a brain injury that affected her speech.

“It was all mind boggling,” says Shahida.  “I couldn’t remember anything about that day.  When I regained my memory, I grabbed my throat... all that mattered to me was the condition of my voice.”

Shahida was in the hospital for two months.  After discharge she started several therapies to help her begin to function physically and regain her independence. 

“The Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan is an extraordinary facility.  I couldn’t imagine the success of my recovery without it.  I’m indebted to all the wonderful people there.  More than 23 years later, I still go there for therapy and to learn about my body.”

Shahida says the first time she got back on stage it was thrilling but challenging.  Her physical limitations and brain injury affected her stamina and memory.  But with the support of her fellow musicians, she did well. 

Today she performs regularly and also teaches music.  She sits through portions of her sets and has to pace herself. But she has adjusted to the differences and credits DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan with helping her manage them. 

“The Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan gave me a voice, literally. I can’t imagine my life without it.  I sing the praises of the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan.  Go rehab!”