Gray Matters! - Brain Injury Association of Canada

B U S I N E S S
N A M E
Gray Matters!
V O L U M E
1
I S S U E
1
W I N T E R
2 0 1 1
A Note From the President
The purpose of
life is not to be
happy.
It is to be
useful,
to be
honorable,
to be
compassionate,
to have it make
some difference
that you have
lived
and lived well.
Ralph Waldo
Emerson
BCBIA has had a wonderful year, with many opportunities for growth
coming our way. With the new highly visible “Logo-Link” which offers
instant access to community based resources for visitors to our website. A grant from
the Rick Hansen Foundation allowed for the completion of the second phase of the Kids
Korner website, which I encourage you to visit.
Education and prevention regarding brain injury remain a primary focus for BCBIA. The
educational Speakers’ Bureau, consisting of a team of community professionals with a
background in brain injury, has provided presentations to schools, service organizations,
sports venues, conferences and government and actively engages the media in order to
further the understanding and prevention of brain injury.
Through the Resource Information Line and via email we respond to several thousand
queries regarding brain injury from around the province. There are many communities
where resources are scarce. BCBIA board members attempt to connect with a host of
local organizations, providing representation at the Concussion Advisory Network,
CBIPCY Advisory Committee, the ICBC and Schizophrenia Roundtables, to name a few.
At present, we are eagerly preparing for our March Gala and are hoping you will join us.
In 2012, we will work to take services offered by BCBIA to the next level in the hope of
further assisting the essential needs of the brain injury community. BCBIA is extremely
grateful to the sponsors, donors, members, volunteers and local community based brain
injury associations whose diligent efforts ensure that the importance of brain injury is
understood throughout the province. It is through the strength of these willing hands,
hearts and minds that BC Brain Injury Association continues to blossom and serve the
essential needs of survivors and their families.
May you enjoy a restful and joyous holiday season.
Julia Zarudzka
PAGE 2
Meet Our Board of Directors
Chairperson: Julia Zarudzka ~ Julia has been with BCBIA for many years and is
a guiding force. Julia brings 18 years of experience as an Educational Consultant,
providing educationally related programming for school-aged children with special
needs, primarily Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). She holds a masters degree from University of Toronto and an undergraduate degree from McGill University. Through
the 1970s Ms. Zarudzka taught in the public school system at both the elementary
and high school levels in Quebec. During the 1980s she was Director of Education
for the Vancouver Neurological Centre, also serving as sessional lecturer at the University of British Columbia in the Department of Special Education in this period.
Ms. Zarudzka has served as board member and chairperson for the Seva Service Society for nine years and AIDS Vancouver for six years
The dedicated professionals at BCBIA work
to bring about quicker
access to services,
supports &
information for BI
survivors, caregivers
and their
Home of the
BCBIA
Speaker’s
Bureau
When you
need a speaker
for your
group, meeting or event,
call or email
Book one of
our speakers.
Call to Book :
604-788-7221
GRAY
MATTERS!
Vice President: Linda Luedtke~ Linda comes to BCBIA with some very personal
experience. Linda lives in Maple Ridge with her husband and daughter currently
attending Simon Fraser University. Ms. Luedtke holds a full time position with the
Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows School District in the Human Resources department.
She first became involved in the world of Brain Injury when her 17 year old son was
in a tragic car accident in 2001, in Germany where he was an exchange student.
Linda’s son sustained a very serious traumatic brain injury and remained totally dependent, until the time of his death in May 2008. Since his accident, Linda has increased her knowledge of ABI through research and conferences. Ms. Luedtke is
committed to helping people with Brain Injuries through her active membership on
the Board of Directors of BCBIA.
Treasurer: Sean Pritchard~ Sean has travelled the world teaching Vipassana
Meditation. He has served on numerous charity boards over the years notably as
treasurer for SEVA Service Society, Chair of Big Brothers of Vancouver and Chair of
Aids Vancouver. For many years, Sean was a Buddhist Monk ordained in the Burmese tradition. Previous to ordaining as a monk in 1992, Mr. Pritchard was an independent financial consultant with a part time but well paid hobby as a film actor. At
the present time, Mr. Pritchard is enrolled in the doctoral program of clinical psychology with Fielding Graduate University out of Santa Barbara.
Director: Janice Landy ~ Janice has spent almost 40 years nursing in a variety of
clinical settings in Canada and the United States. For the past 20 years as a Clinical
Nurse Specialist in the field of Rehabilitation and Life Care Planner Janice has been
providing rehabilitation case management services and medical legal support to
individuals of all ages who have sustained catastrophic injury - traumatic and acquired brain injury, spinal cord injury and severe burns. Her business travels have
strengthened her belief in the need for education, prevention and universal access
to rehabilitation services in a timely and efficient manner. Personally she is the
mother of two grown children.
Continued on page 3...
VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1
PAGE
3
Meet our Board of Directors…
Director: Mel Kaushansky ~ Mel has practiced as a Registered Psychologist in the Province of British Columbia
since 1989, having completed a Ph.D. from Simon Fraser University. His specialty is in Neuropsychology, assessing
children and adults with varying neurological disorders and typically planning rehabilitation programs to improve
their functioning at home and in the community. He also holds a Master’s degree in Special Education, obtained in
1973, and has spent his working life addressing the needs of handicapped children and adults. He has also worked in
private and public clinics in that capacity, as well as taught psychology in post-secondary settings within the Province. He has been qualified as an expert in the Supreme Court of British Columbia as well as in Washington State.
Director: Deborah Edwards ~ Deb has been a Nurse since 1985 and is currently working in Home Care as a Client
Care Manager specializing in Acute and Chronic illnesses, Wound Care, Home IV, Acquired Brain Injuries, Developmental Disorders and Palliative Care. She began her career in Emergency Departments and then went on to work
with the Red Cross traveling all over the world to disaster areas. She has been working in Home Care for the past 10
years. She holds a special interest in Acquired Brain Injuries after her son was born with a mild brain injury over 20
years ago.
Director: Robert (Bob) Attfield ~ Bob is the Regional Director for British Columbia for We Care Home Health Services which provides home support and care services. Prior to this, he was the Executive Director of South Fraser
Home Support Society and Cornerstone Care Society, not-for-profit organizations that also provide support services
to seniors. Since 2008 Bob has served as a director on the board of the BC Care Providers Association and represents
the organization on the Care Aide Registry advisory council. Previously, he was the Vice President and Director, Electronic Delivery, for the investment dealer division of the Toronto Dominion Bank. Prior to this, Bob was VP Marketing for the Debt, Capital Markets Group, and was also responsible for the west coast treasury operation of TD. He is
an active Rotarian, is past President of the North Delta Rotary Club and is active in many club activities. One of his
passions is to volunteer his time to assist with eye care clinics in third world countries. Bob is a past Director of Signal
9 Solutions an Ottawa based technology company, the board of Governors of Kwantlen Polytechnic University and
has also served as a member of the board of directors of the Delta Community Foundation.
Director: Dorothy Hyslop ~ Dorothy has her Masters in Counselling Psychology and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with B.C.A.C.C. Dorothy has contracted her services to a wide range of community based programs and agencies, including ICBC Rehabilitation, WorkSafe BC, Community Living B.C., the Ministry of Children and Family Development and UBC Neuropsychiatry for the past25 years. Dorothy has been in the human services field for 35 years, 25
of those years have been working with individuals who have been traumatized, often as a result of catastrophic accidents. She has extensive experience working with individuals with disabling conditions, such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputation, learning disabilities and other cognitive disorders as well as developmental disabilities.
Director: Jeff Boniface ~ Jeff has his Bachelor of Physical Education and his Bachelor of Health Sciences
(Occupational Therapy) from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. Jeff is registered and in good standing with
the College of Occupational Therapists of British Columbia. Jeff has been in private practice for over 14 years, and
currently serves as a director and consultant at Boniface Consulting Occupational Therapy Services. At present, Jeff is
a member of the B.C. Society of Occupational Therapists, College of Occupational Therapists of B. C., and the B.C.
Brain Injury Association. Jeff also serves on the board of the College of Occupational Therapists of B. C., is Chair of
the Client Relations Committee and has served as the Chair of the Nominations Committee and Discipline Committee.
Continued on page 8….
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE 4
Reach out and get
the help you need!
My wife and
children, my
parents and
brothers and
their families,
my friends and
my co-workers
are the reason
that I get up
each day and
work so hard.
Tips for Living with a Brain Injury
After sustaining a brain injury, life is full of adjustments and adaptations. Life
can become challenging, not only for the survivor, but also for those who know
and care for the person. Here are some basic tips to help ease some of those
challenges and move forward with brain injury recovery:
Reach out to get the help you need
Start with small goals
Schedule mentally and/or physically challenging tasks during peak periods of
energy
Stick to a regular sleep schedule
Give yourself plenty of time to do things
Plan small breaks between tasks
Develop a list of tasks you need to accomplish and rank them in order of
importance
Keep a planner and schedule your tasks
Routine and structure are important to brain injury survivors and their families
require discipline and commitment from everybody.
For more survivor information go to:
http://www.lapublishing.com/head-injury-family-issues/ .
Survivor’s Corner
This edition introduces Michael Coss in our Survivors Corner. Michael's story:
My injury occurred when I was driving up to Kelowna for a work function at 9 am, I
was driving on the Coquihalla Highway to a Maxim Golf event when it was assumed
that I veered off the highway to avoid a crossing animal. The vehicle that I was driving left the highway, rolled a few times and then came to a stop. My son was induced into a COMA for 10 days, my wife fractured her wrist, my daughter was uninjured, and I fell into a deep COMA for the next 6 ½ months. I naturally went into a
total fatal position like I was in my mother’s womb.
After doing some research on the internet my parents decided
that HBOT, or Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy was the route to take
for my recovery. It worked, and after my second treatment of
HBOT Oxygen Therapy I awoke from my deep COMA and I continue to make even more progress. I was on a feeding tube in the
hospital. The tube was placed into my stomach which nourished
my entire system, then I progressed to a puree diet and I can now
eat almost anything. My beverages had to be thickened with a
thickener and now my water must just needs an ice cube in it,
because the colder a beverage is the easier it is to swallow. The
first word I said besides my wife’s and children was STEAK and
boy was that 1st STEAK delicious when I was able to eat it.
GRAY
MATTERS!
VOLUME
1
ISSUE
Survivor’s corner
PAGE
5
My family is the reason why I work so hard on my rehab each day. My wife and children, my parents and brothers
and their families, my friends and my co-workers are the reason that I get up each day and work so hard. I came
out of my coma after my second treatment of Hyperbaric Oxygen treatment and I continue to make even more
progress. There was only one facility that would accept me in the state or condition that I was in since I was in a
COMA. My mother accompanied 5 days a week via ambulance and put a sponge with some water on it while I
was in the chamber which would make me swallow and equalize the pressure within my ears. It worked and I
awoke from my coma after my second treatment of HBOT.
I now would like to acknowledge and THANK the following people who have made a huge difference in my life;
the 1st person I would like to THANK and applaud is my wife, ANN COSS, for raising my son and daughter for
the past 2 ½ years while I’ve been re-covering since my accident. Hats off to her, with a huge round of applause!
Next, I would like to THANK my parents who re-located to Vancouver from Quebec City,
the day after my injury leaving family members, friends, and co-workers behind. My inlaws are who I would like to THANK next for assisting Ann with daily household chores like
babysitting our children, taking our #1 son for a walk, “MURPHY”, helping prepare meals,
bath our kids, mow the lawn, and supporting my wife through this nightmare.
“To catch the reader's attention,
place an interesting sentence or
quote from the story here.”
Michael has written “The Courage to Come Back” in an effort to offer hope and inspiration
to survivors of brain injury and their families. He also wants to let the general public know
about the benefits of hyperbaric chambers. He also hopes that in sharing his story with
others, it will give them the fire within to keeping fighting for every inch and every step in
This story can fit 100-150 words.
ternally, you might comment upon
their journey of rehab and recovery.
The subject matter that appears in
new procedures or improvements
to that
the business.
Sales be
figures
It is Michael’s hope that his story
inspiresispeople
to be the
they can
to or
other
newsletters
virtually endless.
You best
earnings
will
show
how
your
busiindividuals and that they appreciate
fullystories
whatthat
others
done. As a result of his injury,
can include
focus have
on
ness
is
growing.
current to
technologies
or experience
innovations
he feels he is in a very good position
share his
with others, as many doors
in your
field.open up new ones, create
Some newsletters
include a column
have closed behind him and now
I must
new friendships,
and
that
is
updated
every
issue,
for
other contacts. Michael createdYou
The
Injury Foundation to assist chilmayMichael
also want Coss
to noteBrain
business
instance, an advice column, a book
or was
economic
trends,
or makechance
predren undergo HBOT therapy as he
given
a second
at
life and now it is his turn to give back to others.
review, a letter from the president,
dictions
for your
or
He states: “as a result of my injury,
I feel
thatcustomers
I am a better
person,
stronger, and better equipped to deal with
or an editorial. You can also profile
clients.
life's curve balls and my experience with a TBI, I see as nothingnew
butemployees
a speedor
bump
along the road. His book was
top customers
If the as
newsletter
is distributed
written to pass along key learning's
to what
it is like into haveorsustained
a
brain
injury to other brain injury afvendors.
fected individuals and their families. It will also give hope and inspiration as the road back is a long, frustrating
journey, with many speed bumps along the long winded road. And lastly, it is to educate the benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy to the general public and to spread the word on The Michael Coss Brain Injury Foundation.
The journey back is a long frustrating journey for TBI affected individuals and their loved ones. If I can simply
take their mind off their current situation for a short brief moment and interject a little distraction, maybe even
perhaps a little bit of humour then I will be content giving back to society with my key learning's and story.
Unfortunately, there is no magic solution or a pill that one can swallow to ease the pain and discomfort caused
by brain injuries. Affected individuals must surround themselves with a positive loving atmosphere that will allow affected individuals to continue to grow, be independent as best they can, and will return to a more normal
way of life.
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE
6
Survivor’s Corner….
The journey back is
a long frustrating
journey for TBI
affected individuals and their loved
ones.
I am very fortunate that my parents decided to relocate to Vancouver from Quebec
City, leaving family members, and friends behind as they felt that I would need all
the support that parents and loved ones could offer me.
Check out Michael’s website: http://www.secondchancestepbystep.org
story you would like to share?
Have a
Please email: [email protected]
Caregiver’s Corner
. Depending on
the part of the
brain affected
and the severity
of the injury, the
result on any one
individual can
vary greatly
GRAY
Head injury survivors may experience a range of neuropsychological problems following a traumatic brain injury. Depending on the part of the brain affected and the severity of the injury, the result on any one individual can vary greatly. Personality
changes, memory and judgement deficits, lack of impulse control, and poor concentration are all common. Behavioural changes can be stressful for families and caregivers who must learn to adapt their communication techniques, established relationships, and expectations of what the impaired person can or cannot do.
In some cases extended cognitive and behavioural rehabilitation in a residential or
outpatient setting will be necessary to regain certain skills. A neuropsychologist also
may be helpful in assessing cognitive deficits. However, over the long term both the
survivor and any involved family members will need to explore what combination of
strategies work best to improve the functional and behavioural skills of the impaired
individual.
Even a person who makes a “good” recovery may go through some personality
changes. Family members must be careful to avoid always comparing the impaired
person with the way he/she “used to be.” Personality changes are often an exaggeration of the person's pre-injury personality in which personality traits become intensified. Some changes can be quite striking. It may be, for example, the head injury survivor used to be easy going, energetic, and thoughtful and now seems easily angered, self-absorbed, and unable to show enthusiasm for anything. Nonetheless, try
not to criticize or make fun of the impaired person’s deficits.
This is sure to make the person feel frustrated, angry, or
embarrassed.If you have a story you would like to share
please email: [email protected]
MATTERS!
VOLUME
1
ISSUE
PAGE 7
1
Tis the Season forGiving
As you count your blessings this Holiday Season,
please remember to make BCBIA your charity of
choice.
BCBIA is entering its 29th year anniversary. We
are still growing and evolving to be what and
where BI survivors, their families and caregivers need us to be. Your
support is so important to continuing our work. Won’t you send us
your supporting donation today?
Your charitable gift of $25 or more is tax deductible
(A 2011 Tax Receipt will be sent to the address provided below.)
Yes! I want to show my support for the work of
BC Brain Injury Association
Mail: Box 143-11948 207 St., Maple Ridge, BC V2X 1X7 Fax: 888-429-0656
My Name:_____________________________________________________________
Address:______________________________________________________________
City:__________________________________ Prov: _____ PC:________ ________
EMAIL:_______________________________________________________________
My gift: $15 $25 $50 $100 $500 $1000 $____ 1 Time / Monthly
Find my (circle) - CQ Visa
MC or My ‘VOID’ Cq is Enclosed
Card #_____________________________________________ Exp: ___/___
CV # _______ Signature _______________________________________________
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE
8
Tips for Caregivers
Traumatic Brain Injury can alter the lives of the entire family, and caring for a patient
with a brain injury can be a long-term, even lifetime, commitment. For that reason,
learning to manage the stress and frustration of caring for a TBI patient is vitally important. If the caregivers cannot take care of themselves emotionally and physically,
they will be not be equipped to provide effective care to the TBI patient.
Although in some cases it may seem difficult or impossible, especially early on after
the injury, the following tips can be helpful:
Remember that your friend or family member suffering from TBI often cannot control their behaviours or
emotions.
Reward yourself periodically with short breaks.
Do not isolate yourself.
Realize that feelings of sadness and frustration are normal.
Make a to-do list of tasks and put them in order of importance.
This can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed and aid in helping others to help you.
Take advantage of all available support resources.
Exercise to help relieve stress, improve sleep, reduce depression and increase your energy level.
Get plenty of sleep whenever possible.
If it’s right for you, use prayer, meditation, and other
If the caregivers cannot take care of themtypes of spiritual support.
selves emotionally and physically, they
Don't be afraid to ask for help.
will be not be equipped to provide effective
Take time to be alone and clear your head.
care to the TBI patient.
Talk about your feelings to family and friends.
Educate yourself about TBI.
Try relaxation activities such as yoga, warm baths,
reading , listening to music, or just spending time with friends.
Remember to take advantage of the resources available to you, such as family and friends
offering help, local support groups, and web-based support networks.
If necessary, ask your doctor about whether or not medications to treat anxiety or depression
might be right for you.
From: the Center for Excellence for Medical Multimedia
Meet the Board of Directors
Continued from page 3….
Jeff has also worked in the public sector at Grand River Hospital, Kitchener, London Health Sciences Centre,
Riverview Hospital, and taught at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. He has also offered his services as a
small group tutorial leader and seminar facilitator for the UBC Faculty of Medicine, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Occupational Therapy Master's Program. In his spare time, Jeff is a
member of the Kiwanis Clun of Vancouver.
Secretary: June Jeffries ~ June lives in Burnaby with her husband and three children. After graduating from
SFU she started her own business. In between designing children's clothing and operating a start-up wholesale company manufacturing blankets for home decor retailers she worked as an Occupational Health and
Safety coordinator for 5 years. For the past 15 years she has been actively involved in a volunteer capacity for
the Burnaby School District as PAC Chairperson, fundraising chair, District Parent Advisory Council representative, School Planning Council Member, BMHA, STMC and is a Canadian Diabetes Alumni. Currently, she is
event planning on a contract basis.
GRAY
MATTERS!
VOLUME
1
ISSUE
1
PAGE 9
Ask an Expert!
My son was 16 when he sustained a traumatic brain injury as a result of a car accident. Right
now, he lives with my husband and myself and his brother. Since his accident, he seems to have
lost all his friends. They seem to just have fallen away! I think it’s most likely because he’s
changed quite a bit since his injury and sometimes he’s difficult to be around. I worry about
him, because he seems so isolated and lonely. I worry about him getting depressed or worse.
I’m wondering if it would be a good thing to encourage him to go to a support group? Or maybe
even see a counsellor? I’d like it if you could give me some advice about these issues because
they really concern me. We live in the Kerrisdale area of Vancouver, so if you think either of
these are good ideas, please tell me where we should look for
the
professionals.
Thanks
Mrs. B. Roberts
Mrs. Roberts:
Your son might benefit from going to a support group. I always think that when you attend a
support group, you are meeting with people who have had the same or similar experiences as
you and they will provide you with encouragement, ideas and often emotional support because
they truly understand what your struggles are. Your son might even be able to develop connections that might blossom into friendships. Whatever his reason for going to the group though,
he will, for the time he is there, be completely accepted and that ‘s a gift.
He also might benefit from counselling - a counsellor who has an understanding of Brain Injury
would be most appropriate. This counsellor might be able to provide
him with strategies and techniques for managing depression, anxiety, Brain injuries don't hapanger management, should he have any and they certainly could help pen to people...they
him with his process if grief and loss.
happen to families. Every
There is a Brain Injury Survivor support group in Vancouver, facilitated
by Lillian Wong. Please contact her at 604-873-2385 for more information. With respect to a counsellor, you can look on the website for B. C.
Association of Clinical Counsellors to find appropriate and local counsellor who may be appropriate for your son.
person who knows or
loves the survivor suffers
a loss, and deals with it in
their own unique way.
Lois McElravy
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE 10
New Tool for Concussion
The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has revised its multimedia physicians’ toolkit to help
provide earlier diagnosis, management and appropriate referral for patients with concussions. One of the key tools is the Acute Concussion Evaluation (ACE) assessment which can
help physicians with their initial evaluation and diagnosis.
Concussions or mild traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are caused by a bump or a blow to the head
that disrupts the way the brain normally works. In the United States, at least 1.4 million people dies or are treated in a hospital or emergency department with a TBI each year. Of those,
75 to 90 percent are categorized as mild TBIs.
Many concussions are not treated and CDC experts estimate that 1.6 to 3.8 million sports and
recreation - related TBIs occur each year in the US.
“Recent research has shown that diagnosing mild TBIs as soon as possible is critically important because, without proper management, recovery can take longer, and
people who are still recovering are at a higher risk of having a second, more
serious injury,” said Dr. Jean Langlois, one of CDC’s leading TBI researchers
and one of the authors if the tool kit.
The tool kit contains practical, easy-to-use clinical information and tools:
The Facts for Physicians booklets
Fact sheets in English and Spanish on preventing concussion
A palm card for on-field management of sports related concussion
CD-ROM with downloadable kit materials and additional TBI resources.
The Heads Up: Brain Injury in your Practice tool kit can be ordered and
downloaded online free-of-charge at: www.cdc.gov/injury . For more information please call
Gail Hayes, CDC, Injury Media Relations; Phone(770) 488-4902.
SEEING THAT IT’S HOCKEY SEASON: HOW TO BE SAFE WHILE PLAYING HOCKEY
~ Wear appropriate protective gear and ensure that it fits properly. Proper gear includes: CSAapproved helmets, face shields or full face protectors, gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, shin pads,
mouth-fitted or laboratory-made mouth guards, and athletic support for males
~ Replace your hockey helmet at least every five years. If your helmet has cracks, discard it
~Remember to warm up and cool down for each game and practice
~ Take a heads-up when approaching the boards to prevent neck injuries, and don’t check anyone
from behind as this can lead to serious injury
~Hit the boards or goal posts with an arm, a leg, or anything but your head first. This will help
reduce the risk for spinal injuries Source: Safe Kids Canada, 2009; Smartrisk, 2008, 2009
GRAY
MATTERS!
VOLUME
1
ISSUE
1
PAGE 11
RDSP-Canada’s best kept secret for people with disabilities
What is it? The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a Canada-wide registered matched savings plan specific for people with disabilities. Here are some basics: For every $1 put in an RDSP account, the federal government can (if your family income is below $83088) match with up to $3! This
is the Canada Disability Savings Grant For people living on a low-income (less than $24183), the federal government will put in $1000 each year for 20 years! This is the Canada Disability Savings Bond
For people living on an income between $24183 -$41554, they can still receive a partial bond Anyone
can contribute to an RDSP- family, friends, neighbours… it gives people who want to help a way to do
so! The money can be invested to grow- we have heard that it is the best Return on Investment available. Depending on someone’s income, any money saved immediately triples in value. Once investment decisions are made, it can really start to grow! The RDSP is exempt from most provincial disability and income assistance benefits. It does not get clawed back and it does not reduce disability
benefits payments. To find out how your province treats the RDSP, go to
www.disabilitysavings.gc.ca People with disabilities can choose what to do with the money when it
comes out- there are no restrictions on how the money can be spent!
by RBISN on Monday, December 5th, 2011 Source: YouTube
Minor brain injury is an oxymoron. There is nothing minor about a brain injury. ~Lois McElravy
GRAY
MATTERS!
Come and welcome the spring with us after a long cold
winter!!
Enjoy a drink and a treat ~ meet some old friends and
make some new! Listen to some music and relax!
When? ~ March 2nd 2012
Where? ~ Hycroft Mansion Vancouver
Cost? ~ $100.00 per person
Early Bird tickets purchased up to December 31, 2011
are NOW discounted @ 25% savings at only $75.00 per
person! January 1st to February 28th, Ticket prices
are $100 per person and 4 Tickets for $300.
(Tickets will not be available for sale at the door).
Ask a friend or associate to join you to support a good
cause!
Ticket purchases can still be made at this number:
604-788-7221 anytime 10am – 10pm daily.
GRAY
MATTERS!
VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1
PAGE
13
Tips from the Trenches:
Clear Communication for & with people with disabilities
Over the years, I have assembled a toolkit of communication strategies that are useful
for people with disabilities and service providers. Some are based on personal experience
and others are contributions from people who provide information as part of their work.
Although some of the suggestions are specific to telephone communication, most are
appropriate for face-to-face conversations. Nothing that follows is rocket science, but as
with all successful communication, awareness and genuine interest are key. It’s also important to remember that people with disabilities may be a service provider or a client. If
you have additional tips, please let me know.
1.
Listening and empathy are the best tools for interaction and are effective regardless of ability/disability. In telephone conversation, active listening may provide
your only clue to special needs or misunderstanding.
2.
Tone of voice conveys much more about your attitude than you may realize.
Warmth and interest facilitate communication.
3.
Chose words carefully. Are there other words you can use to paraphrase the information or questions.
4.
Speaking quickly eliminates the division between words, sometimes causing confusion or misunderstanding. If you have an accent or a speech pattern that is unfamiliar to the listener, speaking quickly can make it even more difficult for them to understand.
5.
Pauses in your speech are important. Pauses separate sentences and ideas, and
give the listener time to absorb the information. They also allow time for them to
compose a question or to take notes,
6.
Allow the listener time to absorb what you have said. People may need longer to
process what you’ve said and to develop a response. Avoid the urge to fill the silence.
7.
During a phone conversation, if you are providing directions, names or telephone
numbers which must be written down, be aware that the listener may be slow or
may have to relay the information to another person to record. In addition, they
may not wish to disclose that they cannot write down the information. If appropriate, offer to mail the information to them.
8.
Tell your listener that they can call you back if they wish. It offers some comfort to
know that they can reach a friendly voice if necessary.
9.
Never assume that the caller should get a friend or family member to call for them.
Making this call may be a small step towards independence.
10. Never doubt the importance of your information and understanding.
11. Be aware of how noise, light or other surrounding stimuli can affect willingness
and ability to concentrate, think and communicate.
12. Ask question to confirm, clarify and explore issues, but always be cautious about
tone and appearing to interrogate.
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE 14
Tips from the Trenches
Clear communication for and with people with disabilities
13. Beware of your assumptions about the person’s tone of voice, speech and body language. Our interpretations are not always correct.
14. Consider your own body language. Are you causing an unintended reaction from
your listener by glancing at your watch (in face-to-face meetings) or because you are
feeling impatient or exhausted?
15.If possible, avoid multi-tasking while speaking on the telephone. Keyboarding is usually audible to the listener and can be perceived as lack of attention. If you must keyboard while talking to the person, explain why.
By Shelley Hourston forTransition Fall 2007 edition.
Donations & Legacies
What will your legacy be??
For more information on bequests and
other forms of giving, please contact
Deborah St. Jean at 604-465-1793
or email her at:
[email protected]
Be part of ours!
We are working toward our legacy, too. It’s a legacy for people with brain injuries
living in all corners of the province of B.C. and it includes:
Creating awareness
Educating people about brain injury
Creating inclusion
Creating connections
Creating support
Building friendships
Encouraging Independence
GRAY
MATTERS!
VOLUME1
ISSUE
1
PAGE
15
Fundraising Efforts!
For the past year, BCBIA has been actively fundraising. We have had some great opportunities to
increase awareness about brain injury, find new members and raise some money, all while having
some fun!
A very special thank you to
Ms. Wendi Mackintosh for being our
FoodSafe person during our hot dog sale
and giving us so much of her time.
Most recently, we were lucky enough to
have Santa offer to do a fundraiser with us!
Here are some of the photos!
With Thanks to Mutt Mugs Photography ,
Three Dog Bakery and Santa!!
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE 16
What’s Happening Around B.C. & Canada?
2012 is going to be a busy year!! Here’s a taste of what’s to come!
JANUARY
The Victoria Brain Injury Group is starting the year off right!!
Have a look at everything they’re doing!
January 4th ~Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) 101 (VBIS) An informative introduction to brain anatomy and
brain injury. In this 4 week, knowledge-building course, there will discussion around brain function and brain
injury with focus on causes, effects, recovery and more. This is a prerequisite to the “Coping Strategies” program.
January 6th ~ Coping Strategies (VBIS)
This 20 week program is an informative, in-depth course for people with brain injury, looking at strategies of
daily living and dealing with the effects of brain injury.
January 9th ~Creative Arts Program (CAP) (VBIS)
This program focuses on art as a therapy and rotates through three courses. No experience in any of the arts
is necessary. To participate, you must register in advance by calling the VBIS office. Individuals with an acquired brain injury and their family members are welcome. EXPAND YOUR CREATIVITY! Expand your creativity and unleash your imagination. This is a project for people who are open to experimentation
with different visual art techniques. We will explore the technique of collage, mask making and other creative ideas. With an open studio structure, you will work at your own pace. Bring images, books, post cards,
magazines etc., that you find fun and inspiring. Exercises will be offered for those interested and supplies are
provided.
January 9th ~ Family Support Group (VBIS)
To share experiences, ideas, and offer supports. There will be a monthly speaker to address issues particular
to the challenges and gifts of caring about someone with an acquired brain injury. Just drop in!
And there’s more………………….
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE 16
VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1
What’s Happening Around B.C. & Canada?
JANUARY continued…
January 11th ~Walk/Run Group
After a short break for Christmas, the VBIS Walk/Run group will be back on the cement with new inspiration
for the New Year. The VBIS walking/running group began in July of this year. It has been a pleasure to watch
the participants excel in their running and walking goals! As our t-shirts so aptly state:“Success isn't how far
you got, but the distance you traveled from where you started.” One of our walkers has doubled her distance since July! The VBIS running/walking group is a great way to meet other survivors of brain injury, build
community, stay motivated and of course get some regular exercise. It is known that regular exercise improves brain function following a brain injury and helps relieve stress and tension. You can even work towards the goal of participating in the Goodlife Fitness Victoria Marathon in October, 2012! Come and join
us! Just call the VBIS office or email : [email protected]
Awareness - Choice - Education (ACE) (VBIS)
Specifically for people with acquired brain injuries, this program is an educational support group for people
who also experience difficulties related to substance abuse. This group aims to motivate, support, increase
self - awareness, examine issues & strategies to increase social stabilization & social interactions with others. Contact VBIS for more information :250-598-9338
Peer Support
An opportunity for people with Acquired Brain Injury to connect with trained Peer Supporters who have
experienced brain injury themselves. Hey have participated in our Peer Support training program, under
the supervision of VBIS case manager, Alex Gilchrist. Contact VBIS for more information :
250-598-9338
VBIS SUPPORT GROUP — VICTORIA GENERAL HOSPITAL
A group to help family and friends of someone with an acquired brain injury who is currently a patient in the ICU or the
Neuro Unit learn more about brain injury. It is an opportunity to support each other, share information and know that
you are not alone. Please check in with the Unit Social Worker. Location: VGH Family ICU/Acute Neuro Unit, 6th floor
FEBRUARY
February 15-17, 2012 ~ PACIFIC COAST BRAIN INJURY CONFERENCE : “Real people with Real Lives”
Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, Vancouver, BC Canada
With Satellite Conferences held simultaneously in Victoria and Kamloops, BC
After a successful and inspiring 2010 conference, the 22nd Conference will return February 15-17, 2012. The
2012 Conference will be held at the Sheraton Wall Center in Vancouver, BC with Satellite Conferences in
Victoria and Kamloops, BC. Professionals should register prior to January 16th to save ! Conference rates:
for survivors $50.00 & for caregivers: $140.00
And there’s more………………….
GRAY
MATTERS!
VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1
PAGE 18
What’s Happening Around B.C. & Canada?
LAST WEEK IN FEBRUARY:
Campbell River Head Injury Support Society
This annual fundraiser is “The 3rd Annual Looney War”, a competition between the Campbell River
head Injury and other brain injury groups. It takes place the last week in February with all funds staying in the community that raised them. The competition is on a per capita basis with a beautiful trophy and bragging rights at stake. For more information, contact CRHISS
MARCH :
March 2nd ~ BCBIA “WELCOME SPRING !” GALA at the HYCROFT Mansion in Vancouver
This annual fundraiser will help BCBIA continue to provide support services to survivors , their families and their caregivers . We will also be able to keep increasing awareness and educating people
about brain injury. For more information, contact BCBIA at 604-788-7221.
March 31st ~ FVBIA FOURTH ANNUAL PATHWAY to HOPE GALA, at Northview Golf and
Country Club, Surrey, BC.
An Evening of Magic" will help FVBIA to continue providing their high quality of support and services to survivors and their families. For more information, contact FVBIA at 604-557-1913.
If you have any programs, resources fundraising plans or activities that you want to
share - please send it to BCBIA and we will
put it in the next edition of Gray Matters!
Under What’s Happening” !
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE 19
Resources in & Around B.C.
Resource
Contact Number
ABI Outreach Program Downtown Eastside (Vanc)
Acquired Brain Injury
Acquired Brain Injury Society of the Yukon
Alberni Valley Head Injury Society
Barrier/Merritt Brain Support
B.R.A.I.N (Brain Resource Advocacy & Information Network)
BC Brain Injury Association
BC Centre for Ability
Braintrust Canada - Kelowna Office
Braintrust Canada - Vernon Office
Bulkley Valley Brain Injury Association
Burnaby Chinese Brain Injury Support Group
Burnaby North Stroke Recovery Branch
Burnaby South Stroke Recovery Branch
Campbell River Head Injury Support Society
Campbell River Stroke Recovery Branch
Caribou Brain Injury Society
Central Okanagan Brain Injury Society
Cheshire Homes Society
Comox Valley Brain Injury Society
Comox Valley Head Injury Society
Comox Valley Stroke Recovery Branch
Community Brain Injury Program (Vanc)
Connecting the Dots B.I.Support Network
Coquitlam Stroke Recovery Branch
Cranbrook Stroke Recovery Branch
Duncan (Cowichan Valley) Stroke Recovery Branch
East Kootenay Brain Injury Association
Early Resp/ Brain Concussion Services
Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association
--Langley/Aldergrove Brain Injury Support Group
--Mission Support Group
Golden Brain Injury Support Group
Headway Centre New Westminster -Howe Sound Rehab. Services Society
Headway Centre Vancouver - Howe Sound Rehab. Services Society
Kamloops Brain Injury Association
Kamloops Stroke Recovery Branch
604-603-7592
604-520-4175
867-668-5283
250-724-6772
250-372-1799
604-540-9234
604-465-1783
604-451-5511
250-762-3233
250-307-6064
250-877-7723
604-877-8606
604-431-9897
604-525-1671
250-287-4323
250-830-3144
250-392-7772
250-762-3233
604–540-0686
250-897-1255
250-334-9225
250-871-0553
604-737-6291
250-486-3360
604-927-6093
250-426-3994
250-246-4952
250-417-6220
604-873-2385
604-557-1913
GRAY
MATTERS!
250-344-5688
604-520-0130
604-732-4446
250-372-1799
250-320-1348
VOLUME
1
ISSUE
Resource
Contact Number
KBIA –Salmon Arm-Shuswap B.I. Support Group
Kelowna Stroke Recovery Branch
Ladysmith Stroke Recovery Branch
Langley Stroke Recovery Branch
Langley Younger Stroke Survivors
Maple Ridge (Pitt Meadows) Stroke Recovery Branch
Maple Ridge Support Group
Nanaimo Brain Injury Society
Nanaimo Stroke Recovery Branch
New Westminster Brain Injury Support Group
North Okanagan Shuswap Brain Injury Society
Northern Brain Injury Association (NBIA)
Pacific Coast Brain Injury Society
Parksville (Qualicum/Oceanside) Stroke Recovery Branch
Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (P.L.A.N)
Port Coquitlam Stroke Recovery Branch
Port Coquitlam Younger Stroke Survivors
Powell River (Sunshine Coast) Stroke Recovery Branch
Powell River Brain Injury Society
Prince George Brain Injured Group Society
Prince George Stroke Recovery Branch
Richmond Stroke Recovery Branch
Saanich (Peninsula) Stroke Recovery Branch
Salmon Arm Stroke Recovery Branch
Sechelt (Sunshine Coast) Brain Injury Support Group
Sechelt (Sunshine Coast) Stroke Recovery Branch
Shuswap Brain Injury Services
South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society
Surrey Stroke Recovery Branch
The North Shore Stroke Recovery Centre
Trail Stroke Recovery Branch
TriCities Support Group
Tsawwassen (Delta) Stroke Recovery Branch
Vancouver Brain Injury Survivors Support Group
Vancouver Douglas Park Stroke Recovery Branch
Vancouver East Stroke Recovery Branch
Vancouver Killarney Stroke Recovery Branch
Vancouver Shaughnessy Stroke Recovery Branch
Vancouver Strathcona Stroke Recovery Branch
Vancouver Templeton Stroke Recovery Branch
Vancouver West End Recovery Branch
Vancouver Younger Stroke Survivors
GRAY
PAGE 20
1
MATTERS!
250-833-0369
250-763-0556
250-245-0138
604-882-4672
604-882-4672
604-462-0380
604-944-9030
250-753-5600
250-753-5328
604- 540-9234
250-833-1140
866-979-4673
250 -984-6448
250-752-9796
604-439-9566
604-942-2334
604-942-2334
604-485-6396
604-485-6065
250-564-2447
250-563-3819
604-277-8094
250-652-3016
250-832-6213
604-885-8524
604-885-3059
250-833-0369
250-490-0613
604-942-2334
778-340-5803
250-368-9306
604-916-5027
604-946-2731
604-873-2385
604-789-7772
604-351-8785
778-397-4030
604-733-4545
604-713-1850
604-837-7184
604-789-7772
604-221-5553
PAGE 21
Resource
Contact Number
Vanderhoof Stroke Recovery Branch
Vernon Stroke Recovery Branch
Victoria Brain Injury Society
Victoria Stroke Recovery Branch
West Coast Support Network
West Kootenay Brain Injury Association
White Rock Stroke Recovery Branch
West Kootenay Brain Injury Association
White Rock Stroke Recovery Branch
250-441-0086
250-542-2555
250-598-9339
250-383-2623
250-726-7459
250-304-1259
604-541-1290
250-304-1259
604-541-1290
SOME GOOD NEWS FOR CAMPBELL RIVER HEAD INJURY SUPPORT SOCIETY!
Campbell River Head Injury Support Society is pleased to announce they are in their new facility!
Their new address is 591- 9th Ave, Campbell River, BC, V9W 4B5. Both the phone and fax numbers are
the same at 250 287-4323, as are the email at: [email protected] and the web site: www.crhead.ca.
The new facility was 3 years in the planning and fundraising and nearly 8 months in the renovation
stage but is now finished and up and running. The biggest change is the addition of 4 suites for head
injury survivors on site. The suites were full when CRHISS moved in and now has a wait list. The survivors have access to programming 7 days a week and this has allowed us to increase our programming
for other head injury survivors as well.
The main portion of the building, a converted convenience store, is comprised of reception area, a huge
meeting room programming space, offices, and a large kitchen. CRHISS has an area for a respite suite
for head injury survivors as well. Having built their own space has allowed CRHISS to increase the accessibility and functionality of all spaces, making the building very user friendly for all head injury survivors and providing a showcase for the public in general. The new location also includes a large lot,
much of which will be converted to a wheelchair accessible garden as soon as the weather cooperates.
This will not only give our residents and others valuable experience with gardening but will provide produce for our programs and for the local Food Bank.
The move has provided an added benefit that we had not anticipated – increased visibility! They are
located on a very visible corner, at a site that was a convenience store for more than 50 years and they
have a bright orange roof (that is another story). All of these combined created a very visible, easy to
find location. This has increased our “walk-ins” and has created more interest in head injury in the community—which is wonderful!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO CAMPBELL RIVER HEAD INJURY SUPPORT SOCIETY!!
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE 22
VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1
BCBIA would like to
Our Generous Supporters
thank all our generous
supporters – the money
they contribute will
assist us to continue to
provide support for survivors of brain injury,
their families and caregivers.
We make a
living by
what we
get, but we
make a life
by what
we give .
Winston
Churchill
Holness Law Group
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE
23
BCBIA MEMBERSHIP/DONOR FORM
Join Us…The Spirit of Hope for Brain Injury Survivors and Their Families
Please indicate: [ ] New Member [ ] Renewal [ ] *Gift Membership [ ] Donation
Name____________________________________________ Ph. _______________________
Address________________________________ Contact: _____________________________
City___________________________________ Province: ____ Postal Code:______________
Email:______________________________________________________________________
*Gift Membership from:________________________________________________________
Annual Membership Status: *Membership Fiscal Year Applied:
[ ]
Individual
$ 10.00
_________
[ ]
Single Family
$ 25.00
_________
[ ]
Professional
$ 50.00
_________
[ ]
Association – Non-Profit
$100.00
_________
[ ]
Corporate – Business
$150.00
_________
[ ]
Diamond – Executive
$200.00
_________
[ ]
Survivor
Complementary Membership
Optional „Step-Up‟ Donation/Support:
[ ]
November 1 – October 31st
Method:
VISA
[ ]
MasterCard
[ ]
*Cheque
[ ]
*CQ‟s Payable to BCBIA Please
[ ] I/we wish to sponsor a special project(s). Call me.
I wish to step-up and include/give a Donation to keep it going. $________ [ ] 1 Monthly Auto Payment
[ ] I hereby consent to Pre-Authorized Annual *Membership Status Renewal (Saves us the cost of postage and paper
each year)
[ ]
Please send me information on how I may go about leaving a legacy in my will to help your work continue for BI s.
______________________________________________ Name on Card :__________________________________________
Member Signature
and/or
Card Authorizing Signature
(Pint Clearly)
Credit Card #______________ ______________ ______________ ______________
CV #_______
Exp. Date:_____/20___
Resource Info Line/Office 604-465-1783
Office TF 877-858-1788
FAX 888-429-0656
FAX COMPLETED FORM or MAIL To: BCBIA, Box 143 - 11948 207 Street, Maple Ridge, BC
V2X 1X7
VOLUME
1
ISSUE
1
PAGE 24
Our Objectives:
To promote increased resources and
service delivery in our province.
To reduce the number of new brain injuries through education
B.C. Brain Injury Association
To improve understanding and effects of
#143-11948 207 Street
Maple Ridge,
BC V2X-1X7
brain injury and concussion.
Phone: (604) 465-1783
Toll Free: 877-858-1788
Toll Free Fax: 888-429-0656
E-mail:
and networking.
To provide education through print media, news media, public presentation s
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK!
[email protected]
Advertising Rates & Sizes
BCBIA
Special thanks!
Standard Business Card $50.00
Quarter Page $125.00
Half Page $175. 00
Full Page $300.00
The B.C. Brain Injury Association would like to thank Tracey Oates at Mutt Mugs
Photography for giving her time and amazing skill with a camera and her passion for dogs and to Corby Lee at Three Dog Bakery for volunteering his bakery ,
his time and his dedication for our Pet Photos with Santa Fundraiser. We would
also like to thank Santa Paws for making an appearance and for making the
Dog’s Christmas very YAPPY!
Mutt Mugs
Photography
GRAY
MATTERS!
PAGE
25
The Gray Matters! Newsletter is published four times a year by the British Columbia Association for Brain Injury
and is available online in PDF format. We welcome articles, graphics, creative writing and more for publication.
The editors reserve the right to edit for clarity and length and/or withhold material from publication. We’re glad
to see Gray Matters material republished with credit to Gray Matters, BCBIA and the edition date.
Gray Matters! Newsletter
BCBIA
#143-11948 207 Street
Maple Ridge, BC V2X-1X7
Ph.: (604) 465-1783
TF: 877-858-1788
Fax 888- 429-0656
www.BCBrainInjuryAssociation.com
[email protected]
Follow us on Face book.
Editorial Statement: The views and opinions expressed within the pages of Gray Matters! are not necessarily
those held by the total membership or Board of Directors. The material presented herein is meant to be thought
provoking and to promote dialogue. Gray Matters! is a forum to share information within the community of people with brain injuries, their families, friends and with government and the general public. It is also an opportunity for people with brain injuries to display creative talent.
Disclaimer: Any firm or company advertising in the Gray Matters! Newsletter is for our readers’ benefit and does
not constitute an endorsement by BCBIA.