Brooklyn Aleksic, a promising Canadian athlete, was struck with sudden paralysis due to transverse myelitis. Read about her journey from a thriving college life to facing a rare neurological condition.
Canadian Athlete’s Life Altered by Rare Illness
In the blink of an eye, 20-year-old Brooklyn Aleksic’s promising future as an athlete and student was derailed by a rare illness. Known for her talent in curling and her passion for education, Brooklyn was preparing for a summer job when something went terribly wrong.
What started as an unusual feeling in her body soon became an all-consuming paralysis, leaving her unable to move within hours. Diagnosed with transverse myelitis (TM), Brooklyn’s life would never be the same. But her story of strength and determination continues to inspire.
Understanding Transverse Myelitis (TM)
Transverse myelitis is a rare neurological disorder that causes inflammation of the spinal cord, leading to damage of the protective myelin sheath around nerve fibers. This inflammation disrupts communication between the brain and the body, affecting motor and sensory functions.
Brooklyn’s case resulted in paralysis from the neck down, signaling severe upper spinal cord involvement. Symptoms vary from person to person but typically include muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and bladder dysfunction.
The Start of Brooklyn’s Struggle
At just 20, Brooklyn Aleksic had it all – a bright academic future and athletic success. As a dedicated curling athlete, she followed in her mother’s footsteps, achieving recognition in her sport. She was also an education student at the University of Victoria, aiming to become an elementary school teacher.
But in June 2025, everything changed when Brooklyn woke up one morning in Saskatchewan with a sensation of heaviness in her body. Within two hours, she was paralyzed from the neck down. Doctors would later diagnose her with transverse myelitis, a condition most had only read about in textbooks.
What Transverse Myelitis Does to the Body
TM typically results in sensory changes, such as tingling or numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis. If the inflammation is in the upper spinal cord, it can affect breathing and control over bladder and bowel movements. Unfortunately, recovery is unpredictable, and while some regain functionality, others face long-term challenges.
Brooklyn’s journey through paralysis is far from over, but early interventions and therapies offer hope for recovery.
Facing the Fight of Her Life
Brooklyn’s sudden paralysis meant a drastic shift from her active, independent life to one of dependence. But her unwavering optimism and strength have amazed everyone. Her mother, Shannon Joanisse, described Brooklyn as a “fighter” who continues to smile and crack jokes even in the face of adversity.
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A GoFundMe campaign to support Brooklyn’s recovery has raised over $100,000, thanks to the generosity of friends, family, and strangers moved by her story.
A Long Road to Recovery
After several weeks in a Saskatchewan hospital, Brooklyn was transferred to Vancouver for specialized care. With access to spinal cord specialists, physical therapy, and cutting-edge assistive technologies, she is gradually regaining strength. Though the road ahead is uncertain, Brooklyn’s spirit remains unshaken, and her journey continues to inspire those around her.
