Annual Report 2014-15

Message
from the
President
ARBI BOARD
MEMBERS
Executive
President:
Bruce Murray: President,
Powder Mountain Energy Ltd.
Vice-President:
Donald Staus: President and
CEO, Carrick Petroleum Inc.
Jenny Saunders (middle) is another long-time ARBI volunteer pursuing a career in medicine. She starts medical
school in July, 2015. Congrats, Jenny! She’s pictured here with ARBI employees Wendy, left, and Elaine.
Historically, ARBI’s
self-image was as a small
but mighty agency; we took
great pride in knowing that
inside our modest facility
amazing things happened.
Lives were transformed and
hope restored.
Intuitively, we knew there
was more – that our impact
extended far beyond the
individual clients to the family,
care homes, the volunteers and
the health care system. This
year we highlight the ripple
effect that ARBI has on the
greater community.
For example, over 70 per
cent of our volunteers are
students, many in medically
related fields of study. We nurture these young minds with
hands-on-learning that builds
confidence and enhances
knowledge. ARBI has launched
a follow-up study to reconnect
with alumni volunteers, in part
to determine how ARBI helped
shape their careers. Project
completion should occur in
the next year.
In the meantime, we are
pleased to share one stellar
alumnus’ story with you.
We caught up with Kelli, an
2
emergency physician at the
Rockyview General Hospital.
You can read the full interview on page 12, but here is a
preview:
“My one-on-one work with
my client (at ARBI) was incredibly rewarding and I truly
felt like I was making a difference. It was a taste of what
I was working towards in my
career and kept me focused on
my goal.”
Focusing on prevention,
ARBI hosted a screening of the
multi-award winning documentary The Crash Reel in
April, 2014. Kevin Pearce, the
subject of the film (a former
professional snowboarder
turned traumatic brain injury
survivor and advocate) was on
hand to deliver a rousing talk
about his recovery. The audience, which included many
young snowboarders and
skiers, seemed mesmerized
by Kevin’s remarkable journey
and his upbeat attitude.
The client stories featured in
this report reflect the breadth
and depth of the ripple effect. Respected novelist John
Lathrop recounts his amazing
life and recovery from a stroke
he suffered during open-heart
surgery. Despite John’s ongoing
challenges, he is a happy and
fulfilled man.
John had a profound and
lasting influence on his rehab
team, too, prompting the question, who is coaching whom?
Read his story in his own
words on page 9.
We are making waves in the
community through ongoing
client advocacy and sharing
our knowledge at conferences
and in working groups.
ARBI knows that our work
results in cost savings to the
health care system, and we
have engaged respected health
economist, Dr. Herb Emery,
from the School of Public
Policy at the University of Calgary, to quantify our impact.
Stay tuned.
In the meantime, our small
but mighty agency continues
to transform lives and restore
hope.
Treasurer:
Terry Craig: Retired Financial
Executive
Secretary:
Brent Kraus: Partner, Bennett
Jones LLP
Members at Large
(listed by date of appointment)
Randy Fowler: Brain Injury
Survivor
D.M. (Bud) McDonald:
President, McDonald Oil &
Gas
Lorn Howes: Retired
Firefighter, City of Calgary
Diane Beattie: Oakmont
Custom Builders
Steve Hager: Senior
Exploration Analyst, Canadian
Discovery Ltd.
Cheryl Bourne: Retired
Financial Executive, President,
The MacNon Group Inc.
Bob Steele: Independent
Businessman and Board
Member
Doug Webb: Global QHSE
Manager, Phoenix Technology
Services
Darrell Haase: Oakmont
Custom Builders
Brandy Hunter: Director,
Measurement Operations,
CriticalControl Energy
Services
Bruce Murray is the president of
ARBI’s Board of Directors
Kimber Pipella: Lawyer,
Pipella Law
Messa
g
from t e
h
Execu e
tive
Directo
r
Our clients and their families never cease to inspire. Despite a language barrier, Gum (right) made significant gains in her functioning while at ARBI.
Bestselling author and psychiatrist, Dr. Norman Doidge,
wrote that “Nature has given us
a brain that survives in a changing world by changing itself.”
Just as the brain changes in
response to its environment,
ARBI is evolving to meet the increasing community need. This
was a year of growth, renewal
and adaptation, where challenges became opportunities. The
retirement of senior staff, an
unstable economic climate and
changing client needs stimulated development.
The changing of the guard
included the retirements of our
legendary program director,
Mary Anne Ostapovitch, and
Judy Stawnychko, our beloved
executive director. Judy continues to be my invaluable mentor;
Mary Anne has been my right
hand during the transition.
These remarkable women left
an indelible mark on ARBI
and a lasting ripple effect on
the community.
While these retirements are
bittersweet, they set the stage
for emerging leaders to help
shape our future. Ana Gollega,
our research leader, and Tanya
Brinkerhoff, our On-Site pro-
gram leader, began their tenure
as program directors April 1.
Together they bring 30 years
of ARBI experience, knowledge
and compassion to their new
roles.
With new front-line staff
and therapists, ARBI is bustling with energy and fresh
perspectives! The combination
of seasoned and young professionals means we have the right
team in place today to help
ARBI evolve to meet the needs
of tomorrow. The successions
became an opportunity to
restructure roles to better meet
clients’ needs.
Strengthening relationships
with existing donors and creating new community connections are central priorities.
Committed major donors made
multi-year pledges, augmenting
our ability to plan. The amazing
CycleTherapy gang signed on
for another three years, once
again proving the power of the
pedal! With McKinley Masters
on board as presenting sponsor,
the ARBI Charity Golf Classic
raised $173,000.
Donations came from many
sources including five-year-old
Colten – a bright spark indeed
– who collected donations
for ARBI, in lieu of accepting
birthday gifts. Incredibly, an
anonymous Family Legacy
Fund at the Calgary Foundation pledged $50,000 a year
in perpetuity based on their
belief in our work. And, Pipella
Law stepped up to sponsor this
annual report, making communications cost-effective.
The United Way of Calgary
and Area remains a core funder,
with a renewed three-year
contract. We are grateful that
our government partners, Alberta Human Services, Alberta
Health Services and Alberta
Infrastructure continue to support us in these tenuous times.
I am optimistic that our donors will remain engaged with
us through these challenging
times and know how much it
means to have them as partners.
and our ability to serve more
people are key priorities.
Ultimately, it’s about the
people we serve and how
helping them helps the greater
community.
Everyone benefits when survivors have a quality of life
and families have a strong support network.
What may not be so evident
is what our clients give back…
contributing as family members, and community volunteers. Additionally, they teach
us about the tenacity of the human spirit – how adversity can
transform into resilience. They
give us the gift of perspective,
reminding us to be grateful for
what we have and to see beyond
our own limitations.
Survivors inspire us to grow,
adapt and evolve. Together,
with our dedicated staff,
volunteers and board, we create
a positive impact in the
community.
You have to throw the stone to
get the pool to ripple
And throw it we did! Our management team and board are
stirring up the waters, deeply
engaged in strategic planning.
Robust discussions about evolving client needs, the necessity
Mary Ellen Neilson is ARBI’s
executive director
for more transitional support
3
ARBI has been such a huge part of my life and as I transition
into retirement, I am certainly experiencing mixed emotions!
I was so blessed that my career path led me to meet ARBI’s
co-founders Audrey Morrice and Alice Laine over 31 years
ago. I was overdue with our first child and remember
Message teetering down the stairs to the basement of Woodcliff
United Church to visit ARBI. I’ll never forget that
from Mary
feeling of absolute astonishment when I recognized
Anne
patients who had received rehab at the General HosOstapovitc
pital
several years prior. Many had been discharged
h
to long-term care centers with little hope for further
recovery. What I witnessed that day is imbedded in my
mind and heart forever!
Amidst the positive, happy atmosphere, caring volunteers
worked with these individuals who were now smiling, making eye contact, moving on command, some even talking and
taking steps! Audrey and Alice saw potential in each and every
person and with a lot of practice in a nurturing environment,
Mary Anne’s contributions to ARBI are timeless, just like this undated photo!
positive changes were happening. Little did they know that research would confirm many years later that those changes in the
brain occurred because of neuroplasticity! Audrey offered me a
position as a physiotherapist and I accepted wholeheartedly. My
exciting journey commenced providing rehab the ARBI way!
Since those early days ARBI has evolved and grown to become a recognized and respected rehab center. As our team of
staff and volunteers grew, ARBI managed to stay true to its core
values and philosophy providing intensive personalized rehab
in a caring, supportive atmosphere. Today, so many visitors
comment on the positive energy they feel when they enter
ARBI. The emotional healing ARBI offers is as important as the
physical healing.
I have been reflecting on the amazing people I’ve met over the
years. The clients and families who persevere despite the huge
challenges they face continue to inspire me. Their courage and
determination lifts everyone’s spirit daily. I’ll never forget the
volunteers who show up week after week to support our clients,
sharing their talents and compassion. The changes clients experience would not be possible without the volunteers’ ongoing
dedicated support. It’s been a privilege to work with such passionate and talented staff over the years. Each one brings their
own unique gift and continues to make such a huge impact on
the quality of life of our clients and families. I so appreciate the
wise and committed board members who have guided ARBI as
we’ve evolved and grown. The community partners that we’ve
worked closely with to advocate for better programs and services are invaluable.
I will truly miss all of the incredible people I’ve been privileged to work with over the years. I know that ARBI is in very
capable hands and well positioned for future growth. I am so
passionate about ARBI; it will always hold a special place in my
heart. Thank you to each and every one of you for all the fun
times and beautiful memories. Please continue to share those
famous ARBI hugs!
Mary Anne Ostapovitch has been with ARBI for over 30 years, most
recently as program director
4
Prog
r
Repoam
rt
Kelsey (left) and Dave talk in aphasia group. As well as adding a second group, other enhancements have been made to make ARBI more aphasia-friendly.
We are pleased to report on an extraordinary and impactful year. Change was in the air from small to significant adjustments.
In the 2014-15 fiscal year, we served approximately 100 people
in our On-Site, Community Integration (CIP) and Outreach
programs. Twenty-four individuals graduated from the On-Site
program; many of them continue to flourish in our CIP groups
(check out pages 14 and 15 for highlights). Our social workers
also provided support to 35 families coping with a variety of
challenges including addictions, mental health issues, legal matters, financial problems, caregiver burnout and housing needs.
Families are connected with resources and the team advocates as
needed to help families navigate the system.
Program Trends
Clients are being referred to ARBI sooner post-injury. Providing rehab earlier is a challenge for us. The good news is that the
prognosis for recovery is optimized when the appropriate rehab
is offered earlier on. On the contrary, however, many clients
are receiving less traditional therapy in hospital before arriving
at our doors, creating the need for more specialized services.
Therapies have become more clinically complex, and program
updates keep the rehab team hopping.
Therapists have been increasing their time on the floor, providing a richer experience for clients and volunteers. Relearning
how to walk on the treadmill, as an example, may require more
hands-on support for safety reasons. The volunteers benefit from
working shoulder to shoulder with therapists.
Outcome measures indicate that 78 per cent of the clients’
goals were either achieved or partially achieved. These healthy
results are due to ARBI’s flexible approach and a team strengthened by the addition of a therapy assistant (a therapist’s extra set
of hands).
Trends indicate a decreasing length of stay in the On-Site
program, resulting in expedited transitions to the community. As such, we continue to recognize that acceptance of one’s
circumstances is as important as physical healing in recovery. In
the coming year, we will bolster our transition support for clients
and their families. Stay tuned.
Giving our Clients a Voice
Aphasia is an impairment of language, affecting the ability to
speak or comprehend speech. It can also affect one’s ability to
read or write. It is important to note that while aphasia does not
affect intelligence, survivors are sometimes treated as if it does.
Imagine knowing exactly what you want to say, but you can’t get
it out.
We are continually exploring new ways to give our clients a
voice. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (a tool
used to set client-centred goals and measure performance) and
our annual client survey were made aphasia-friendly this year.
Supported communication workshops are now offered quarterly
for volunteers/new staff/students. In addition, we have added a
continued on next page...
5
...continued from previous page
second weekly Aphasia Group to help our clients practice their
communication skills with peers. Led by a speech-language
pathologist and supported by volunteers, the clients learn tools
and techniques for communication through conversation, games
and role-playing.
On the Same Wavelength
Promoting education and awareness has always been part of our
mission. A new initiative includes three continuing education
workshops offered throughout the year to staff and volunteers.
Activity-Based Rehabilitation, Behavioural and Emotional Consequences of Brain Injury and (as noted earlier) Supported Conversation for Adults with Aphasia (SCA)TM are led by our team.
Many of our volunteers are students in health related studies.
We believe these educational opportunities will help round out
their experience with acquired brain injuries and translate to a
better understanding of our client population and the challenges
that they face.
New Initiatives
The Neurogym Biofeedback trainer was incorporated into rehab
programs as a pilot project. The trainer targets muscle activity
and movements using sensors to facilitate muscle stimulation or
relaxation. Then, input from various sensors controls the action
of computer games, creating a unique and motivational activity
for clients. Targeted movements can be encouraged or discouraged by simple adjustments to software parameters.
The clients enjoyed the introduction of a new, very interactive
activity and the staff had the opportunity to implement a new
rehab methodology.
ANNUAL CLIENT
SURVEY RESULTS
79%
of clients agree
that “ARBI has
impacted my quality of life
in a positive way.”
86%
of clients agree
that “ARBI
provided challenging
programs for me.”
96%
of clients agree
that “ARBI
provided programs that
were relevant to me and
motivated me to actively
participate.”
Best Wishes
Julie Virtue, our Outreach program leader, retired this year after
15 years of service. She was often a family’s first contact with
ARBI, and more recently she played a critical role on the Intake
team. Families have spoken of the immediate feelings of trust
and reassurance they felt when first speaking with Julie.
Helen McDonald-Bohan, recreation therapist and Community
Integration Program (CIP) leader, also retired from ARBI this
year. Over 15 years, Helen grew our CIP program from its initial
team of one to the energized team that plays a critical role in
helping clients re-engage in their communities today.
Ana Gollega, left, and Tanya Brinkerhoff together act as ARBI’s
program directors
Mini
Ripples
6
Denise Pelletier (pictured right) has been turning her own experience around to help others going through
something similar. We’re fortunate to have her here as both volunteer and advocate. As well as working with our
clients in their programs, this year she’s been sharing her story on ARBI’s behalf.
“As a traumatic brain injury survivor I am passionate about helping other survivors in their healing and
rehabilitation journey,” she said. “Volunteering at ARBI allows me to do so, and I am honoured to have been
asked to be a United Way spokesperson for ARBI this year. I look forward speaking at various organizations and
raising the public’s level of awareness on the role ARBI plays in helping individuals reach their highest potential.”
Thank you, Denise!
Client
Story
Claudia is working to regain her strength and confidence to walk her own dog, Pacha, who is apparently quite large. For now, she walks with little Izabel.
After moving to Calgary
from Colombia, Claudia began
working as a chemical engineer at TransCanada Pipelines.
By age 41, she had been there
six years. Walks with her dog
Pacha, practicing yoga, reading
detective novels, dining out and
shopping were choice diversions. She was happy, independent and living a fulfilling life.
Sadly, at this young age and
in the prime of her career,
Claudia suffered a left-brain
stroke, resulting in aphasia and
verbal apraxia. Aphasia refers to
difficulties speaking and understanding language; the individual may be unable to find the
words needed to construct sentences. Imagine having a word
on the tip of your tongue all of
the time. Verbal apraxia refers
to problems forming words or
putting sounds together. On top
of that, Claudia’s right arm was
not functional due to weakness
and hypersensitivity.
Claudia received four months
of rehabilitation in hospital
following her stroke. Then, she
moved home into the care of
her mother, who had relocated
from Colombia to support her.
After some additional rehabilitation, Claudia was referred to
ARBI to work on some further
goals.
ing communication, use of
her right hand, sending emails
and building endurance as
her priorities. Pacha, her loyal
companion is now too big and
strong for Claudia to walk safely, but she hopes to get a handle
on that. Fortunately, her friend
Edgar has stepped up to care
for Pacha for now. This bright
For Claudia, being able to communicate was the
key to regaining a measure of her independence.
Upon intake to ARBI, it was
noted that her severe aphasia and verbal apraxia were
deemed significant barriers
for community integration.
Notwithstanding this past
assessment, ARBI developed
a program to help Claudia be
successful.
Claudia identified improv-
woman also wants to give back
and volunteer in the community.
Three years post-stroke
(outside of the recognized ideal
window for rehabilitation),
Claudia soldiers on. A “quick
study,” according to program
director, Tanya Brinkerhoff,
continued on next page...
7
...continued from previous page
Claudia continues to work on
her rehabilitation with intent.
Communication. For Claudia,
being able to communicate was
the key to regaining a measure
of her independence. In conversation, she does whatever
it takes to get her point across,
from gesturing to pointing to
writing notes. She searches for
the correct word, never giving
up. Her confidence has grown
significantly over time and she
is blossoming.
This was not an easy feat.
Claudia worked on her speech
in a variety of ways, following
the program developed by our
speech-language pathologist,
Heather Tomlinson.
Heather developed role-plays
that Claudia practices with her
volunteers. They include everyday scenarios such as going to
a coffee shop, talking to a bank
teller or ordering a pizza over
the phone. Key components of
the scripts are common words
and phrases that can be used in
each setting. Claudia rehearses using her cellphone and
through face-to-face conversations with volunteers. She even
ventured out to the bank with
Heather alongside as coach.
Imagine that you have the intellect to manage your finances,
which Claudia absolutely does,
but struggle to find words like
withdraw or transfer. Individuals with aphasia may be ignored
or dismissed as incompetent.
But, Claudia was prepared and
she came armed with written
notes as well. When the teller
proceeded to talk to Heather,
looking past Claudia, Heather
structured the conversation so
that the teller had no choice but
to speak to Claudia. With brave
determination, Claudia got her
point across.
Compassion.
Not only is
Mini
Ripples
8
Claudia determined to improve her communication, she
demonstrates compassion for
others. She supports her peers
in the Aphasia Group, encouraging them through small but
caring gestures like holding
the paper when someone writes
a word.
Ten months into ARBI, her
endurance has improved substantially, and she has mastered
public transit. The ability to
send short notes via email
means she can be in touch
with family in Colombia. She
has been walking dogs –albeit
appears happy and confident.
She ventured out to the Talisman Centre with the support
of our CIP team. She gestures
enthusiastically to explain that
she tried the treadmill and leg
press. When asked if she would
like to drive again, she beams
without hesitation. “Yes!” Her
team believes that this is an
achievable goal. Moreover,
they believe that Claudia may
be able to eventually return to
some form of employment.
For now, we have many moments to celebrate. The small
things that so many of us don’t
Claudia works hard using mirror box therapy.
of the small to medium sized
kind – with support from
our Community Integration
Program (CIP) team. The
hypersensitivity in her arm has
ceased and she is working to
regain function. As a volunteer
cat cuddler at the SPCA, her
communication with staff has
improved markedly.
Confidence. The ARBI team
notes that Claudia has adapted
well to her circumstances and
give a second thought to. Banking, shopping, taking public
transit, enjoying a coffee shop.
Community. Recently an
ARBI staff member bumped
into Claudia at Little Monday,
the café she’s photographed in
on this report’s cover. Claudia
was enjoying a coffee and engaged in conversation with the
proprietor, as anyone might. If
only everyone knew how much
it meant.
Equipment upgrade: We were able to replace aging technology with new computers,
upgraded software and a new server thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Alberta Lottery
Community Initiatives Fund and matching donor dollars. In addition, we acquired new rehab
equipment, making our toolkit even more comprehensive.
Originally from California, John has lived and travelled around the world.
Above, he is photographed in Saudi Arabia against a sky darkened by the
Kuwaiti oil fires in 1991. In 2012, he suffered a stroke following open heart
surgery and subsequently found himself at ARBI for rehabilitation. John
is an interesting man and a real pleasure to have around. He is also a fine
writer. The following is a piece he kindly agreed to write for this report.
What were they sick, what did
they die of?
Guy Leet, arteriosclerosis.
Henry Mortimer, coronary
thrombosis.
The above rhyme is from
Muriel Spark’s novel, “Memento Mori”, Latin for, remember,
you must die.
I didn’t die but I came close.
Survival has been a part
of my life. As a Peace Corps
volunteer in the southern Philippine island of Mindanao, I
narrowly escaped death from a
ricocheted bullet shot accidentally by the sole, and inebriated, policeman at our town
fiesta. I survived a concussion
that I got in a jeepney bouncing over boulders, through
potholes and over wooden
plank bridges.
I also survived three wars
on and off the southern coast
of Saudi Arabia, albeit as a
non-combatant. During the
Iran/Iraq war, while scuba
diving in the Gulf, we always
had a lookout in the bows
ready to spot an Iranian mine.
I was on the Gulf during the
Bush senior and Bush junior
Iraq Wars. The photograph of
me against a sky darkened by
Kuwaiti oil fires was taken at
Ras al Ghar, in 1991, immediately after the first Iraq war.
A former Californian, I came
to Calgary via the Philippines
and Saudi Arabia. What was
Calgary’s tremendous draw?
It wasn’t the Stampede. Like
99.9% of Americans, I had
never heard of it. It certainly wasn’t the weather: a city
where deep winter persists for
five months out of the year.
It was love. My first wife,
Mariann Befus, was the
manager of physical therapy at Calgary’s old General
Hospital. When the city’s then
mayor blew up that hospital,
Mariann was head-hunted by
Saudi Aramco. I met her there,
in Dhahran, and together we
moved to Calgary and married.
A former ESL and computer
instructor, in Canada I reinvented myself and wrote two
Client
books on the then
Story
new Linux computer
operating system. At
the age of forty-eight I learned
to ice skate and perfected a
semi-controlled fall.
In 2006 I lost my wife to
cancer.
In 2007, my career took a
new direction: I sold my first
novel. It was a political thriller
titled ‘The Desert Contract’.
Subsequently I travelled to
Cambodia for three reasons:
my now empty home in Calgary was too full of memories,
I wanted a complete change of
scene; my late wife had been
ARBI’s concept of
therapy was a revelation
–John
a Buddhist, and living for a
time in a Buddhist country
appealed to me; and I wanted
to obtain material for a new
novel.
I returned home the next
year having achieved my objectives. It takes at least a year
to write the first draft of a novel, then comes the inevitable
rewrite, then the submission
to a publisher and a further
rewrite. Then comes the publisher’s editorial corrections
and the proofs. The end of this
whole process was ‘The End of
the Monsoon’, also a political
thriller.
I revisited California in 2010
and during a trip down the
Central Valley and up the coast
I conceived my third novel.
A new novel, which after an
unforeseen break lasting a year
and a half I restarted with the
aid of a new editor and proof
reader: my new wife.
I first met Margaret Kósa, a
9
Client
Story
...continued from previous page
at me, and called 911. I was
rushed to the Foothills and
professional organist, through underwent a nine hour opena mutual friend, Susan Ferner, heart operation. During the
about John:
in 2010. Susan thought Marga- operation I suffered a stroke.
One of the things that John told me during the initial
ret would be interested in my
Thus, the patient survived but
assessment I did with him was that he was “strangely
clavichord.
A
clavichord,
for
legally blind and semi-parahappy” despite all that had transpired and the losses he
has experienced because of his stroke. His grace and
those without a musical history lysed on his right side.
ability to keep a sense of humour in the midst of it all
I finally clued in that Marbackground, is a keyboard
has been an inspiration to me personally.
garet was the girl for me upon
instrument of the same era as
He also gave a lot of credit to his wife Margaret, and
the harpsichord, a predecessor first recovering consciousness
this just reinforces to me how important family support
at the Foothills. I had been in a
of the modern piano. Mine is
is along the journey of stroke recovery.
–Heather, ARBI speech-language pathologist
morphine induced dream state
an exact replica of an instrufor days after my open heart
surgery. Upon first opening my
eyes I found Margaret standing
by my bedside. I couldn’t speak
yet, but bringing her hand
to my lips, kissed it. Linda
Johnson, my power of attorney,
looked on smiling and said,
“So, this one is special.”
Upon discharge from the
Foothills Hospital I was sent
to the Fanning Centre, a
Calgary-based stroke recovery facility. I stayed there for
four and a half months. With
a physical therapist, Sharon
Speers who had worked under
my first wife at the old General,
I learned how to walk with the
aid of a cane.
The day after discharge from
the Fanning, I exchanged vows
of matrimony with Margaret
Kósa. It was a busy day.
I returned to my own home,
now Margaret’s home also, and
resumed my writing career. I
struck out into a new direcJohn and Margaret at Elbow Falls, Alberta, in June 2011, about a year before they would be married.
tion, magazine article writing.
I wrote an article describing
my stay at the Fanning Centre
ment built in 1765. I built it
which was published in the
about John:
myself. Margaret recounts
November 2013 edition of AlI was most impressed with John’s ever-present sense
berta Views. I wasn’t through
that
when
I
opened
the
door
of humour, and his obvious desire to stay socially
she expected to see an elderly, with physical therapy. I was
connected and engaged in day-to-day life, despite his
life-changing injures. It was rarely about him. I could not
pigeon-breasted, hunched Brit. accepted into the short term
believe it when he and his wife offered to take care of
She found a virile five foot ten CAR program at the Peter
my 80 pound puppy when I went on vacation - as if they
Lougheed hospital, with Helen
American, not yet sixty.
didn’t have enough challenges in their lives! One of the
Frank, a physical therapist who
By
Good
Friday
2012,
I
most interesting people I have met, it was a true pleahad also worked under my first
was
half
way
through
chapter
sure working with John on his rehab. –Liz, volunteer
seven of my new novel when I wife at the old General. She
I really enjoyed working with John and learning about
suffered an aortic dissection, a referred me to ARBI.
his story - he had seemingly been everywhere and done
ARBI’s concept of therapy
kind of explosive heart attack
everything. Just when I thought I had learned everything
was
a revelation. At the Fanthat
usually
proves
fatal.
about him, he would tell another amazing tale. I took
ning, physical, occupational,
I was lucky. My family
away a sense of adventure and a willingness to try new
and speech therapy all had
doctor was living with me
things and create stories of my own. During my time
at ARBI, he made my efforts as a volunteer easy and
temporarily as my house guest. to be squeezed in to ninety
enjoyable with his sense of humour and his dedication
She came home, took one look minutes, thirty minutes for
to his rehabilitation. –Rachel, volunteer
10
each, five days a week. At
ARBI, morning sessions lasted
two and a half hours a day, five
days a week. And since speech
therapy under Heather Tomlinson was so successful (she
let me customize my therapy
by allowing me to provide my
own difficult but interesting
readings—the opening rhyme
beginning this article is an
example), speech therapy was
discontinued after six months.
This left the entire morning
session free for the other therapists.
ARBI’s therapy programme
is based on three simple ideas:
the concept of neuroplasticity
is embraced to take advantage of the results that can be
obtained by more intensive,
long-term therapy; it should be
individually designed by professionally accredited physical,
was May Mendoza a physical
therapist from the Philippines.
She kept a sharp and conscientious eye on the volunteers,
assessing, correcting and
refining their technique where
necessary.
All of my volunteers were
memorable for their youth,
their personalities, and for
their ethnic background. They
were all examples of ARBI’s
multiple ripple effects: across
ages, students and retirees, religions and classes. They were
observant Muslims, observant
Christians, secular Zen Buddhists, a few frank atheists and
several youthful agnostics.
They were all ages although all
younger than I, and all were
dedicated and caring. I hope
that, particularly among the
most youthful, I was a positive
influence, interested in their
Client
Story
Therapists have to walk a fine and sometimes
ambiguous line between what’s aggressively
possible and realistically achievable. I prefer
aggression –John
occupational, and speech therapists; then the work is handed
over to volunteers trained by
the professionals and overseen
by programme coordinators.
ARBI works largely due to
the care with which the salaried staff and the volunteers
are chosen and coordinated.
Teresa Siebold, an advocate of
neuroplasticity and an aggressive physical therapist, was
assigned to me. Therapists have
to walk a fine and sometimes
ambiguous line between what’s
aggressively possible and
realistically achievable. I prefer
aggression. Sharon Renton,
my occupational therapist was
also a veteran of the General.
My programme coordinator
lives and ambitions, non-discriminatory, and not a quitter.
I hope I managed to lead them
by example as I was led by
them through my therapies.
ARBI has contributed to my
life; I have tried to give back
in return by making editorial
contributions and by submitting articles for the fall 2014
Newsletter and for this Annual
Report. I am sure that ARBI’s
ripple effects are profound
and ongoing, through clients
and their families, volunteers
and staff. ARBI’s ripple effects
also extend through individual
donors, corporate donors
and foundations. I know that
ARBI has had a lasting effect
on me.
At top, John climbs the stairs with his volunteer (left) and ARBI physiotherapist, Teresa. At bottom, the day after discharge from the Fanning
Centre, he and Margaret are wed, October 6, 2012.
11
Volun
t
eers
process. I believe recovery is the
rehabilitation of the mind, body
and spirit. Through my experiences at ARBI, dealing with
my own sport inflicted injuries,
managing patients at work and
cheering my mom on through a
lengthy fight with cancer, I have
come to appreciate that recovery
involves seeing the world in
a positive way. It is about
choosing to live life fully
despite the twists and turns
and speed bumps along
the way. It’s about adjusting
expectations, setting new
goals, and consciously choosing
to laugh.
What kind of impact do you
think that time at ARBI can
have on volunteers’ own lives?
ARBI is a reminder that bad
things can happen to good
people; whether it’s a traumatic
brain injury or a stroke. VolunBefore becoming a physician, cessation or improved asthma
teering at ARBI was a humbling
That was 6 or 7 years ago.
Kelli volunteered at ARBI. We compliance seems to carry more Looking back, how did your
experience that reminded me
caught up with her recently to weight in the somewhat intimi- time at ARBI influence you
not to take my own physical
dating setting of the emergency and the way you practice now? abilities for granted. It taught
say hi and hear her thoughts.
department.
me the importance of a positive
ARBI was my fuel for continuing my pursuit towards
What does a day in emerg look
attitude in the recovery process.
How did you end up at ARBI?
medicine. It provided me with
like for you?
Specifically, my client taught me
ARBI was initially recommend- my first realization that I loved
Shifts vary from 6 to 8 hours in
the power of sarcasm and hued to me by a close friend and
mour while overcoming obstalongitudinal patient-centered
length. I see a variety of clinical presentations ranging from
cles. ARBI inspired my dreams
mentor while I was working
relationships. My relationship
primary care including common towards gaining admission to
with my client at ARBI extended of pursuing a career where I had
colds, rashes, lacerations, broken medical school. I had been volthe privilege of working with
beyond the walls of the ARBI
unteering with other organizabones to emergent care includpatients on a daily basis.
institute. I remember going to
ing trauma, respiratory failure,
tions but was frustrated with the the zoo with my client, his wife
strokes, heart attacks, etc.
lack of patient-centered volunYour husband, Rory, volunteers
and other families from ARBI.
teer opportunities. I often found I remember pushing my client
at ARBI now, too. He’s a teacher, but moving into medicine.
What draws you to this work?
myself in positions where I had in his wheelchair so that his
The ER has proven to be a
very little patient interaction or
wife could walk beside him and You must have had some influrewarding and exciting area of
medical exposure. For me, volhold his hand. It was at that time ence on that decision…
unteering wasn’t just about gain- I gained an appreciation that
Actually, not really. Before I
primary care. I enjoy juggling
several sick patients at once, ac- ing admission to medical school. disability or chronic disease was met Rory he was on the path
tively interpreting investigations, The years leading up to applying not just an individual’s struggle
to medicine. I think my stories
providing treatments over the
to medical school are the most
keep him inspired but truly this
but a family’s struggle. It was
course of hours and developing stressful I can remember (far
is his dream. Trust me, I’d rather
the first part of the puzzle that
dispositions by the end of a fast- more difficult than medical
us both be done school–12 years
pushed me towards Family
paced shift. In the emerg I enjoy school itself). I felt like I needed Medicine and primary care.
after high school I’m finally debt
being a part of a very visceral,
to be inspired and motivated
free and have the freedom of
multidisciplinary team–particand ARBI was the place where I You’ve seen people like our cli- vacation! I do, however, comularly during the co-ordinated
found this. My one-on-one work ents in the first moments after pletely understand the dream
effort of a resuscitation. Lastly, I with my client was incredibly
their injury, and you’ve worked and desire to pursue this career.
have come to discover that often rewarding and I truly felt like I
with them in later stages of
If someone took medicine away
the emergency department is
from me tomorrow I’d start all
was making a difference. It was their recovery. From that perspective, what are some general over again in a heartbeat. He has
an ideal location for executing
a taste of what I was working
thoughts on recovery?
teachable moments. A wellall of my support and I know he
towards in my career and kept
Recovery is not just a physical
placed suggestion for smoking
will love it!
me focused on my goal.
12
Volunteers
Volunteers sustain our programs. Last year, 182 volunteers
contributed 10,455 hours to making life better for our clients.
Less than 1 year
Cherylle Adolphus
Vikas Babbar
Nicole Bailey
Sarah Baker
Saranya Balasubramani
ConnorBatchelor
Nicoline Bihelek
Madison Bischoff
Breanna Blazejak
Christian Boivin
Jacqueline Boon
Amy Brenner
Zoe Bryan
Tuba Bukhari
Amanda Bull
Melanie Bush
Julie Byler
Diana Cabrera
Ashley Casas
Rachel Cheung
Alexa Cho
Sue-Len Chow
Michael Chrusch
Aaron Chung
Olivia Cracknell
Rachel Crooks
Chimoné Dalton
Kylie Denman
Vynie Derkson
Kaitlyn Dionne
Namgyal Dorjee
Ali El Moussaoui
Jonathan Elbaz
Hussein Esmail
Kellan Felty
Eric Fisher
Mary Flemming
Shannon Foran
Norah Gafuik
Kristie Genoway
Sheena Hazime
Jody Heggie
Laura Helm
Jency Henry
Baxter Hickey
Breanna Isted
Zabin Jadavji
Urooj Jaferi
Sartre Jean-Gilles
Nabeel Khan
Rory Killam
Anna Kim
Lindsey Kist
Kaytlyn Kolankowski
Rhianna Kurio
Leanne Langer
Katelyn Larson
Elieen Lee
Leon Lew
Stephanie Limacher
Chantal Loeppky
Hassan Majeed
Joshua Malinoski
Isabel Martinez
Betsy Mawdsley
Amber Mawson
Shauna McClelland
Laurie McDonald
Farwa Naqvi
Hilarie Ng
Ryan Nordstrom
Nadine Odermatt
Selena Osman
Jerico Palileo
Denise Pelletier
Jamie Percival
Michael Pham
Quynh Phan
Larissa Polonenko
Angela Randall
Sandra Rideout
Bonnie Roller
Camila Sanchez
Hazel Scavberg
Sana Shakeel
Linda Shi
Karamjot Sidhu
Alexandra Smith
Jacqueline Smith
Antonio Tan
Rebecca Toffolo
Emily Wasylenko
Gabriella Wong Ken
Jeff Wright
Jessica Yang
Maryam Yaqoob
Carly Yim
Rachel Yu
1-5 years
Liz Ambedian
Sarah Ames
Stephen Booth
Lindsey Boulet
Dawn Byford
Laura Byford-Richardson
Colin Chan
Ryan Chan
Wesley Chau
Janelle Christianson
Julie Cormack
Kent Duthie
Emma Fu
Alexandra Gerwing
Louise Giannoccaro
Anisa Gora
John Heath
Joel Helland
Madison Jerhoff
Thea Jochelson
Jessica Ko
Joanna Kocot
Margaret Kosa
Kelsey Mackie
Alexandra Maclean
Lexy Mahling
Faizan Malik
Stephanie Marx
Carl McDonald
Gail McPhail
Rylee Meisner
Nicole Meyer
Mara Mihaila
Wajehe Najafi
Kimberly Nguyen
Pauline Nguyen
Olivier Organowski
Arnie Ostapovitch
Baltej Parhar
Jason Parks
Margo Phillips
Michael Poscente
Neil Rasiah
Ravi Rasiah
Sydelia Rego
Kendra Reno
Jessica Schvimer
Mike Sobh
Robert Thom
Siobhan Thornton
Mai Tran
Travis Turner
Chris Venter
Brandi Wan
Melissa Wang
Sandy Welter
Logan Woods
Jack Zhang
Calgary Quest School: The
Green Room Class
6-10 years
Tanya Doerr
Steven Hamilton
Eldon Kearl
Nick Moar
Christopher Ostapovitch
Jenny Saunders
11-19 years
Roberta Gunther
Lori Hart
Lorn Howes
Ken Ng
Deborah Swerhun
Practicum placements
Georgian College of Applied
Arts and Technology
Communication Disorders
Assistant Program
Kelsey Mackie
Southern Alberta Institute of
Technology (SAIT)
Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant
Program: Observation Practicum
Jessica Herbers
Southern Alberta Institute of
Technology (SAIT)
Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant
Program
Shane Brent
University of Alberta
Masters of Science,
Physiotherapy:
Observation Placement
Steven Kennedy
Alison Rop
Jennifer Rudko
University of Alberta
Masters of Science,
Physiotherapy Lori Hales
Sandra Oxtoby
University of Calgary
Faculty of Community
Rehabilitation and Disability
Studies: Senior Internship
Joel Helland
University of Calgary
Faculty of Kinesiology
Rachel Cheung
Jessica Rizkalla
Camila Sanchez
Taylor Yuzdepski
University of Calgary
Faculty of Linguistics:
Job Shadow
Melanie Bush
Ashleigh Wassmer
Casino 2015
Christine Goett
Seema Kamal
Maureen Molloy
Maanagi Bhandari
Vera Cheng
Christopher Cilia
Fifi Cilia
Cheryl Clarke
Pat Coett
Myles Dickinson
Terry Ginther
Linda Gray
Steve Hager
Don Harman
Lorn Howes
Steve Kalil
Ann Kennedy
Bob Knipe
Martin Leese
Bruce Mahon
Cathie Mahon
Tom Molloy
Arnie Ostapovitch
Mary Anne Ostapovitch
Maura Overall
Denise Pelletier
Doris Reimer
Jen Smith
John Stawncyhko
Judy Stawncyhko
Sophie Tietz
Brendon Walker
Judy Ward
Sandy Welter
Victor Wiebe
Liana Wilson
13
Community
Integration
Program
Golf Group
The newly minted Golf Group has
been teeing off at McCall Lake
since May of this year, and gives
interested clients like Rita
(middle left) and Don (top left)
a chance to get back in the
game. There is benefit in the social
aspect as well as physical, even
providing opportunity to learn some
adaptive approaches in a supported
environment.
Don has said that he knows his
game isn’t where it was prior to his
stroke, but is seeing improvement.
He has staff video him at the driving
range so he can work on his swing
and set his own goals.
1
5
14
4
Community Kitchen
The Community Kitchen
program serves to tantalize
the entire building on a
weekly basis with tasty
smells and sights. It also,
more importantly, enables
clients to find healthy and
inexpensive recipes and to
cook independently using
adaptive equipment.
Clients like Fidel (top
right, flattening out some
perogy dough) take
pride in their regained
culinary ability. Brad (pictured
right, second from top) says
he’s proud to be able to
contribute to his family. He
samples his food during the
group but “always” saves the
food for his granddaughters.
Way to go, Brad!
Walking Group
The Walking Group is offered
year-round for clients to
increase their current
level of physical
functioning. They
walk outdoors
around town when
weather/season allows,
indoors when it doesn’t. The
group is divided in two to
allow for different abilities.
While supervised by ARBI
staff and volunteers, it is the
clients who tend to push each
other. Hugo, for example, likes
to challenge himself on the
track. He normally walks hand
in hand with his buddy and
fellow client, Cyril (pictured
together here), but is capable
of surprise. A while ago as
staff were glancing around
the track to spot Hugo, they
found him not walking, but
running with a fellow gym
patron! Twice around the
track together and smiles all
around. If you know Hugo,
you know he has a way of
making even strangers feel
like family. (Joe is pictured at
far left, bottom, with Emma,
Jenn and Erin, from left.)
5
2
Aquatics Program
Joe, pictured here with one
of ARBI’s Community Rehab
Workers, Teren, is a good
example of how the Aquatics
Program offers clients the
opportunity to increase their
level of physical functioning
with freedom of movement. A
former boogie boarder, it took
time for Joe to adjust to life
in the water after his stroke.
He didn’t feel comfortable
with staff transferring him
into the pool or holding on to
him, and wasn’t very sociable
at first. But, after the first
few sessions, his agility and
strength improved, along with
his sense of humour. One day
while Teren was portering
him out of the pool, he
leaned back and put
his arm behind his head
with a massive grin as if to
suggest he was living the life!
3
Horticulture Group:
Until we can afford to build
a proper greenhouse (wink,
wink), horticulture is a
seasonal group occurring
through spring and summer.
The goals of the group are
similar to that of Community
Kitchen, centred around
increasing client
independence and selfesteem.
It’s a bit of work to get
everything planted and
maintain it throughout the
season, but everybody loves
the harvest! Bill and Hugo are
happy to show off a handful
of fresh carrots, here.
4
15
An
AR B I
First!
Jessica is the first ARBI client to return to work. She’s made an incredible recovery to be able to do this, but to her, it’s no big deal.
“She’s my baby; I love her!” exclaims Jessica, proudly displaying
the iPhone video of her beloved cat Lola. You could say that Jessica
has a handle on her phone; she’s skillful at utilizing the various
apps including the calendar. And, as you’ll see, this resilient young
woman is capable of so much more!
Jessica wasn’t expected to make it out of the ICU after a traumatic brain injury. Today, you can hardly keep her in the house.
This young survivor is bursting with enthusiasm. She rides transit
around town using her iPhone app to check bus schedules. She
Before my injury I worked and enjoyed it, so I just
expect that I should work now. – Jessica
is pleased because today she arrived for her ARBI visit ahead of
schedule. It was in ARBI’s leisure skills program that Jessica first
rode the LRT. Now she is a pro, and the occasional misadventures
Mini
Ripples
16
aren’t enough to dampen her spirit.
Jessica has had a stellar year, and she is still glowing from her
recent solo trip to a sunny destination. Though she had some support getting to the departure gate, she handled the international
flight like the Miss Independent we have come to be so proud of.
Lost luggage, changing planes and customs were easy challenges to
overcome with confidence that seems to be growing by the day.
She enjoyed swimming, a trip to a shell factory and delighted
in the armadillos at the zoo over the ten-day visit with friends.
Postcards and beer can holders were amongst the souvenirs that
she stockpiled.
In Calgary, Jessica keeps busy working 15 hours a week as a
cashier at Bed, Bath and Beyond. Although she is the first ARBI
client to secure a paying job, she doesn’t see how remarkable this
is.
“Before my injury I worked and enjoyed it, so I just expect that I
should work now,” she said.
When not working, Jessica keeps busy swimming at Cardel
Place; she meticulously records the number of lengths and time on
her iPhone. She enjoys crafts, movies (though, not too scary) and
of course, there’s Lola.
Staff Spotlight: ARBI speech-language pathologist Heather Tomlinson (pictured right) has been serving this year
as chairperson of the newly formed Calgary Aphasia Centre steering committee. “In April 2014,” she explains,” I
was invited to give a presentation to the Stroke Recovery Association of Calgary (SRAC), outlining the need to
address the shortage of community-based aphasia groups for Calgarians living with chronic aphasia. At that time
there was only one group. A partnership was formed between SRAC and key stakeholders, and the committee
was formed in June 2014.”
To date, they have increased the number of community-based aphasia groups from one to five and have
participated in several community fairs and fundraisers to raise awareness about aphasia and the Aphasia Centre’s plans.
Moving forward they hope to further develop plans and programs: “It is our hope to one day have a building of our own that would
serve as an administrative hub, and where we could also offer family caregiver education and serve as a center of excellence in
Western Canada regarding services for people living with aphasia,” Heather says.
On
playing
safely
“Living life to the fullest is the dream of
so many, and the Gartner family is no
different. We enjoy the outdoors, being
active and occasionally, of course, the
adrenaline rush of throwing ourselves
down steep and icy slopes!
Competing and coaching is who we
are, we live it each day, in play, and in
work. We have suffered some of our
own injuries and have seen horrific, life
changing accidents to teammates and
friends. It is through these experiences,
and Kerrin’s own brain injury in 2001,
that our priority of prevention and safety
took shape. This hasn’t stopped us from
playing, and playing hard! But now, we
also play safely!” – Max Gartner, renowned
alpine coach and Kerrin Lee-Gartner, Olympic
Gold Medalist
On
staying
active
poststroke
“The most valuable part of my stroke
recovery was to continue to be
physically active, to work my body to
get it functioning again. The mental
health benefits of being active were also
very important to keep depression from
setting in.” – Ross Gilker, CycleTherapy
Photo courtesy Audrey Rudolf
Commu
nit
Voices y
for Bra
in
Health
Kevin Pearce retired from professional snowboarding after a traumatic
brain injury. He now puts his energy into advocacy with Love Your Brain.
On
staying
healthy
posttraumatic
brain
injury
leader
Ten
foods to
optimize
brain
health
Presented by:
Water is necessary for hydration and for all
bodily processes; it also helps keep the brain
sharp and alert.
Oily fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, herring,
sardines, anchovies, etc.) are a great source of
Omega-3s (healthy fats) which are essential for
optimal brain function. Omega-3s also have
powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
“I have simply changed the lifestyle I am
living by doing everything possible to
heal my brain. I truly believe your brain
can continue to heal if you love it and
do the right things and stay away from
bad things (i.e., get plenty of rest, eat
healthy foods, don’t drink alcohol or do
any drugs and most importantly work
to eliminate any negative thoughts that
you have). I have been doing a lot of
meditation and yoga which has been
really healing as well.” – Kevin Pearce,
2014 National Geographic Adventurer of the
Year Honoree
protect the brain against oxidative stress and
may reduce the effect of age related conditions.
Whole grains (brown rice, oats, quinoa,
buckwheat, amaranth, etc.) are high in fibre,
which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and
provides glucose to the brain to function.
Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, Swiss
chard, arugula, etc.) are high in magnesium,
which helps to relax smooth muscle tissue and
increase blood flow throughout the body and
brain.
Nuts and seeds (walnuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, filberts, almonds,
cashews, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, flax seed,
chia seeds, hemp hearts, etc.) are Eggs are rich in choline, a nutrient that helps
to improve memory function.
high in Vitamin E, a common
antioxidant which helps protect
the brain against oxidative stress. Beans are full of slow-releasing carbohydrates
which are essential for the brain to function.
They are also loaded with fibre, protein and
Avocados are a great source
minerals to keep the body functioning well.
of monounsaturated fats that help
with healthy blood flow and circulation
Dark chocolate is a good source of antioxithroughout the body.
dants and caffeine, which produces endorphins
and can help improve mood.
Berries are rich in antioxidants which help
Sources: http://www.webmd.com/diet/eat-smart-healthier-brain ; http://my.clevelandclinic.org/ccf/media/files/Neurological_Institute/Cleveland-Clinic-Food-for-Brain-Health-Michael-Roizen.pdf
17
Hosting Sponsor:
ARBI Charity Golf Classic
Platinum Sponsors:
Gold Sponsors:
Presented by McKinley Masters
It started with a tour and then things just ignited. When
Diane Beattie and Darrell Haase, the co-chairs of the ARBI
Charity Golf Classic, brought Mark and Colleen Kwasnicki of
McKinley Masters for a tour, it was instant chemistry.
The goal was to invite them to be the title sponsors of ARBI’s
tournament – however no sales pitch was
required. Mark and Colleen were clearly
moved after meeting our inspiring clients.
As if this wasn’t enough, on the tour Mark
bumped into his old friend and neighbour
Michael. Mark (l) and Michael (r) have
spent countless hours in hockey rinks
together cheering on their kids.
Michael had suffered a stroke in 2010, and
he eventually came to ARBI for rehab. For Mark,
this six degrees of separation moment touched his heart.
McKinley Masters stepped up as title sponsor and more,
providing sweat equity and connecting us with potential
sponsors. The end game was a resounding success, with
$173,000 raised for ARBI!
Silver Sponsors:
Gerry Albert, Kelly Moi,
Glen & Trish Gurr
Intercontinental
Consolidated
TM
S
“WinSport was honoured to partner with ARBI for the
screening of The Crash Reel. It was an amazing opportunity
for two community and like-minded organizations to team
up to bring the issue of brain injuries to the forefront in
the minds of the public and the media. While WinSport is
committed to improving safety in all sports and reducing the
risks of sport-related brain injuries, the organization takes
comfort knowing that ARBI is there to help those who are
affected by brain injuries, including stroke survivors. We
look forward to the opportunity to work with ARBI again on
future projects.” – Barry Heck, WinSport President and CEO
Kevin Pearce and Kerrin Lee-Gartner on stage at The Ride of a Lifetime.
The Ride of a Lifetime
Kevin Pearce on brain injury and the Olympic spirit
From Olympic hopeful to traumatic brain injury (TBI)
survivor to TBI advocate. ARBI was honoured to host Kevin
Pearce for a private screening of the Oscar short-listed
documentary The Crash Reel at WinSport.
This event raised $25,000 for ARBI, and equally important,
engaged young people in the conversation about preventing
brain injuries in sports.
18
“We are so proud and honoured to partner with ARBI! Their
focus on brain injury prevention combined with their dayto-day hands on work, dedication and commitment improve
the lives of so many. ARBI truly is a difference maker!” –
Max Gartner, renowned alpine coach, and Kerrin Lee-Gartner, 1992
Olympic Gold Medalist
Presenting Sponsor:
Gold Medal Sponsors:
Media Sponsors:
ARBI gets a makeover
Throughout last year, it became apparent that ARBI was
bursting at the seams. Increased referrals, a changing clientele
and a reconfigured staff team meant we needed a creative solution
immediately. Enter Diane Beattie and Darrell Haase, ARBI board
members and owners of Oakmont Custom Builders. Together
they drew up the plans and co-ordinated the renos by recruiting
several companies to provide over 100 hours of free labour
and materials. The results: a new occupational therapy room, a
completely renovated speech lab and maximized office space.
Thanks to the following companies for their generous
participation:
Carlos Gollega, Clemco Contracting, Dynamic Drywall,
Les McLellan Electrical, MacDonald Construction, Martins
Finishing, New Interiors, Nu-Way Flooring, Recycling Worx
Solution, Stampede Plumbing, Vispol Painting
Project Coordinator:
Oakmont
Custom Builders
Nipper and Teka catching some afternoon light at home in Bearspaw.
Nipper Guest
Bearspaw Benevolent Foundation
Support comes from many places in many ways creating a
positive ripple effect at ARBI and in the community.
Luda, centre, walks with physiotherapist Teresa, right, and her volunteer.
CycleTherapy Tour
for ARBI 2014
Cyclists collected pledges and then rode the grueling
100-km ride from Banff to Lake Louise and back, raising funds
for ARBI. In addition, ARBI graduate Mike Stawnychko raised
an incredible $1,170 through a virtual ride. All told, this event
raised over $45,000 for ARBI, which translates to 600 hours of
intensive rehabilitation for survivors and a new treadmill.
“I had $10K to place so I asked Dermot Baldwin for
suggestions and he spoke highly of ARBI. Although ARBI
was outside the scope of the foundation, after my wife
Eleanor and I toured the facility, we were sold. We were
inspired and we could see the patience and skills of the
staff and volunteers.
ARBI always finds a way to help survivors – they never
give up. ARBI has taught me the value of hugs. Our small
foundation has contributed $198,000 since 2003, and we
will continue to be there for ARBI. ARBI does the work of
heroes.”
19
Donors
Thank you to all of our 2014-15 donors and core funders for providing
an opportunity for our clients to get back into the community.
We are pleased to list all
donations and in-kind gifts
over $100.
Monarch $50,000+
Anonymous Family Legacy
Fund at the Calgary
Foundation
ARBI Charity Classic
presented by McKinley
Masters
Lori Hart in memory of Casey
Hart
Swallowtail $25,000 –
$49,999
Bob and Pat Steele
Bearspaw Benevolent
Foundation
CycleTherapy Tour 2014
Maunders McNeil Foundation
The Calgary Foundation –
Community Grant
Totem Charitable Foundation
Ulysses $10,000 – $24,999
Bob and Michele Michaleski
Kinsmen Club of Stampede
City
TAQA North Ltd.
The Arthur J. E. Child
Foundation
The Ed Stelmach Community
Foundation
The TAO Foundation
Tirpak Charitable Foundation
Van Wielingen Family Fund at
The Calgary Foundation
Duskywing $5,000 - $9,999
Bruce and Kim Murray via
United Way Donor Choice
George Fink
Kiwanis Calgary Metro Club
Sigrid Lewicki
Ted and Enid Jansen Fund at
The Calgary Foundation
United Way of Calgary and
Area (Capacity Grant)
Watson Family Foundation at
The Calgary Foundation
Skipper $1,000 – $4,999
About Staffing
Alberta Association of
Insurance Adjusters
Andrea Henry
ATCO Power Canada Ltd.
ATCO Power Employees
Bernard Bigornia via United
Way Donor Choice
Beth Trawick
Beverly and Richard Dale
BowMont All Season Service
20
for Seniors (BASS) Society
Brent W. Kraus
Cameron Grace and Janis
McGregor Grace via United
Way Donor Choice
CCA Truck Driver Training Ltd.
Cheryl Bourne
Computershare
Cosmopolitan International
Club of Calgary
Country Hills Toyota
D. Craig Natland
D’Arcy and Jo-Anne Dumont
Darrell Haase
Diane Beattie
Georgina Reardon and Alain
Claireaux
Gift Funds Canada – The Gale
Family Charitable Foundation
James Gray
Jeph and Julie Virtue
Jerome and Joan Schafer
John, Judy, and Mike
Stawnychko
Jon Johnson via United Way
Donor Choice
Keelan Developments Ltd.
Kenneth and Sandra Welter
Laureen Darr
Leontine Atkins
Leslie Stelmach via United Way
Donor Choice
Mary Anne and Arnie
Ostapovitch
Mary Ellen Neilson via United
Way Donor Choice
Mathew and Catherine White
Penn West Exploration
Robert Blair
Robert Gilchrist and Deborah
Wheeler-Gilchrist
Rotary Club of Calgary –
Heritage Park
SNK International Ltd.
South Pointe Toyota
Steve Hager
Terry Craig
The Lough Family
The Tuscan Benevolent Society
Tim and Lindsay Hamilton
Vogel Law Firm Ltd.
Holly Blue $100 – $999
Alan Bessel
Alexander Meyer
Anne Hokea
Annie Li
Anonymous
Apache Canada Ltd.
ATCO Electric
ATCO Pipelines
Barry and Maureen Scott
Beverly Cormack
Bill and Debbie Bonner
Brian Yaworski
Bud and Dorothy McDonald
C.S. Yue Professional
Corporation
Cathy Strand
Cenovus Employee Foundation
Chris Ostapovitch
Claudia Alvear
Colin and Claudia Flanagan
Daniel and Trudi Bowman
David and Vivian Boone
Derek W. Link and Dixie Anne
Link
Diane Zimmerman
Donald and Ute Staus
Donald Olafson via United Way
Donor Choice
Donna Pidkowa
Doug and Janeen Webb
Doug and Kelli Taylor
Dr. Arlin Pachet
Dr. Julie Cormack
Ed Fogg
Elida and Darren Noren
Elizabeth Ambedian
Fred and Cheryl Pynn
Fred and Dona Wright
Gary and Margaret Starko
Gordon and Linda Hoy
Gordon Laycraft
Greg and Patti Clement
H. Robert Johnston
Henry and Janet Popoff
Ian Cathery
J. Peter Giannoccaro Prof.
Corp.
James D. Tocher Fund at The
Calgary Foundation
James P.G. Atkinson
Jane Dafoe
Jean Blayney
Jean L Miller Consulting
Jocelyn Flanagan
John A. Howard
John Scott
Joseph and Maria Tiberio
Kelly Clarke
Kimber Pipella
Lauchlan and Karen Currie
Leonid Ossipov
Linda Gale Butchart via United
Way Donor Choice
Linda Gray
LJS Investments Ltd.
Lorn and Kathleen Howes
Mark and Margaret Brodie
Mary Mahon
McCully Occupational Therapy
Consulting
McLeod Law LLP
Melissa Rojas via United Way
Donor Choice
Merlin and Gloria Brinkerhoff
Moira Botham
Monique Godin Danis
Noel and Karla Grisdale
Paul and Margaret Nazarchuk
Paul Tourigny
Peter and Rob Mix
Rae Tayler
Ralph and Carol Lane
Ralph and Joanne Lloyd
Randall Byrne
Reta Prasse
Robert and Nevine Booth
Rory Drabble
Royal Canadian Legion (Alberta
No. 1) Branch
Royal Canadian Legion Ladies
Auxiliary
Ruth Kujat
Sarah Dezall
Scott and Jane Keelan
Scott Thompson via United
Way Donor Choice
Sharal Cook
Sherry Geremia
Sidney and Ilse Pedersen
Steve and Patricia Price
Tadeusz and Margaret Lichwa
Tara Zyla
Team TELUS Cares
Trevor and Margaret Penford
Tyler Cleveland
UBS Bank (Canada)
United Way of Calgary and
Area (7 Anonymous)
Universal Rehabilitation Service
Agency
Vicki Dennis and Family via
United Way Donor Choice
W.R. and M.B. Patton
William and Fiona Peneycad
WorleyParsons We Care
Program
Ziff Energy Group
Stampede Breakfast
sponsors
Presenting sponsor:
Classic Caregivers Ltd.
Annual Christmas Open
House sponsor
Grover & Company
Memorial
and Tribute
Donations
Listed alphabetically by first name
In memory of Casey Hart
Lori Hart
In memory of Donald Kemp
Apache Canada Ltd.
Diane Fraser
In memory of Ed Pipella
John, Judy and Mike
Stawnychko
In memory of George
Douglas Cormack
Dr. Julie Cormack
In memory of Joanne
Fedderson
Alice Post
Alvin and Muriel Richards
Barbara Rupcic
David Feldbloom
Dennis and Annette Arnold
Dinesh Mahtani
Fiona Abbott
Hugh Hockton
June Cote
Kelsey Matheson-McCord
Larry and Irene Todd
Mary Anne and Arnie
Ostapovitch
Nigel and Cathy Kean
Othmar and Dale Stoesser
and Family
Sarah Kemp de Gereda
Suncor Energy Foundation
In memory of Joel and
Michael Klein
Viola Klein
In memory of Joel Klein
Shirley Lehman
In memory of Joyce Krentz
Cathy Allen
In memory of Joyce Scott
Connie Webb
John, Judy and Mike
Stawnychko
Mary Anne and Arnie
Ostapovitch
Mini
Ripples
Sharon Scott
In memory of Ken Reid
Douglas and Lavon Whiteside
Erin Faulkner
Isaac and Audrey Harms
Jeff and Lisa Johnston
John Fildes
John, Judy and Mike
Stawnychko
Ken Reid
Lauri Los
Marian O’Neill-Major
Mary Anne and Arnie
Ostapovitch
Viola Glidden
In memory of Margaret
Robertson
Twylla Rodrigo
In memory of Marianne
Kemle
Ron and Marianne Kemle
In memory of Rena Ehnis
Gary and Cheryl Mummery
In memory of Robin Colleen
Chow
John, Judy and Mike
Stawnychko
In memory Russell Chow
Aase Naylor
Art and Sai Mah
Bryan Lee
Calvin Yau
Carolyn and John Dauphinee
Cynthia Au-Yeung
Don and Darlene Tamagi
Don Haavardsrud
Douglas G. Stewart and Beryl
A. Loken Stewart
Eldon and Karen Maronda
Glenda M. Huber
Gordon C. Gray
Griffith and Lillian Hawkins
Joanne Barnett
John Drysdale
John Mayell
Julia Rogers
Keith Chan and Kim Do
Les Der
Margaret and Sandy Orsten
Mary Anne and Arnie
Ostapovitch
Mary Kennedy
Michelle Lom
Mr. and Mrs. Edward D’Antoni
Mrs. Maureen Haney and Mr.
Robert Haney
Norma E. Carroll
Pamela C. and Peter M. May
Patrick Yau
Peggy Churchward
Ronald and Barbara Greene
Sandy and Andrew Oh
Shelley and Greg Wearmouth
Sonia S. Poon
Stewart I. Patrick
Tania Au-Yeung
Thinley Topgyal
In memory of Wheslay
Martin
John, Judy and Mike
Stawnychko
TRIBUTE GIFTS
In lieu of birthday gifts for
Colten Siebold
Leslie Yee
Teresa Siebold
In appreciation of Dr.
Pachet’s presentation
Gurevitch Burnham Law
Office
Joan Brown
Gina Finch
Greg Rodin – Rodin
Law Firm
Inez Dahl
Jean L. Miller Consulting
Joan Morris
Lauren Butchart
Patty Higgins
Robert and Rebecca
Richardson
Sophie Tietz
Tom and Tara Mark
Victor Vogel LLP
In honour of Mary Anne
Ostapovitch’s birthday
Phyllis and JD MacDonald
In honour of Paul Sicotte
Anonymous
In honour of Stan Cichon
Jewish Community
Foundation of Calgary –
Fay Smolensky Schwartz
Memorial Fund
In honour of her birthday
May Mendoza
In lieu of Christmas gifts
Norma Crooks
KMSS Jeans Day donation
Heidi Sharp
Laura L. Lamb
Core Funders
In memory of Gerald Yeung
Gerald Yeung Fund at the
Calgary Foundation
In honour of Guillaume
Claireaux
Jean-Michel Jezequel
In honour of Judy
Stawnychko’s retirement
Anonymous
Dr. Stuart and
Staff Spotlight: Teresa Siebold (pictured right) keeps busy at ARBI working things like skateboarding and floor
hockey into our activity-based rehab programs. In her own time, she’s teaching other physiotherapists. This year
she received her certification as instructor with the Neuro-Developmental Treatment Association.
She explains: “I took my first postgraduate rehabilitation course in Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) in
1999. The problem solving approach to clinical assessment, and the functional, activity-based philosophy to
therapy inspired me. While I continued to take many courses, from a variety of clinical areas, I decided in 2010
to focus on becoming an NDT physiotherapy instructor. I wanted to inspire others to believe in neuroplasticity
across the spectrum of client recovery (acute care to long-term care) as well as to promote therapists to be critical
thinkers and efficient in their service delivery. After four years of some pretty intense instructor training - made a little more challenging
by being a mom of two small and busy boys – I became a certified NDT Physiotherapy Instructor. I continue to realize, however, that
my learning and professional development has only just begun!”
21
Treasurer’s Report
I am pleased to present ARBI’s audited financial statements for
the year ending March 31, 2015.
The independent auditor has reported that the statements
were properly prepared in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations and that they
present fairly ARBI’s financial position.
While ARBI reported a small operating loss, earnings before
amortization were positive. The Fund Development Committee
again had a successful year, raising 30% of ARBI’s total revenue!
In addition to this, Alberta Infrastructure’s gift in kind of the
facility (valued at $400,000), is an incredible contribution. Fee
for service revenue increased again by 25%.
ARBI faces strong challenges in trying to balance growth to
meet the increasing demand for services while compensating
staff fairly and raising enough funds to do so. People are our
largest expense and through redesign of programs and other
efficiencies the increase in this cost was contained at 5.6%.
Our continuing support from Alberta Health Services, Alberta Human Services, and the United Way of Calgary provides a
strong foundation, but ARBI must continue to look to the community for funds to sustain and grow much needed programs
and services.
Terry Craig
Treasurer
Association for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured
Statement Of Financial Position
As at March 31, 2015
2015
2014
Assets
Current
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 52,771
169,573
Short term investments
193,734
249,640
Accounts receivable
45,087
49,317
Goods and services tax recoverable
6,743
6,540
Prepaid expenses and deposits
8,461
9,329
306,796
484,399
Property and equipment
134,456
106,431
Endowment fund
46,031
42,957
$ 487,283
633,787
$ 44,210
85,036
Liabilities
Current
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Unearned revenue
37,601
–
81,811
85,036
Deferred contributions related to operations
117,083
255,656
Deferred contributions related to property and equipment
118,866
88,857
317,760
429,549
15,590
17,573
Net Assets
Invested in property and equipment
22
Endowment fund
46,031
42,957
Internally restricted fund
75,643
100,123
Unrestricted fund
32,259
43,585
169,523
204,238
$ 487,283
633,787
REVENUE 2015
EXPENSES 2015
%
12
30
15
6
19
15
3
%
71
12
17
United Way of Calgary and Area
Fundraising
Facility - gift in kind
Fee for Service
Alberta Human Services
Alberta Health Services
Other
Program Cost
Administration
Facility Costs
Statement of Operations As at March 31, 2015
2015
2014
REVENUE
General donations
Recognition of deferred contributions related to operations
$ 1,052,853
829,010
144,629
219,389
1,197,482
1,048,399
Community Integration/Volunteer Program
302,766
297,342
On Site Program
186,629
174,721
489,395
472,063
Alberta Human Services
Alberta Health Services
399,998
399,996
United Way of Calgary and Area
327,091
315,269
Fee for service
147,526
117,435
Recognition of deferred contributions related to property and equipment
55,553
65,101
Other
11,025
3,737
Interest
2,206
1,770
2,630,276
2,423,770
Expenses
Salaries and employee benefits
Program
1,840,536
1,711,664
Administrative
135,995
158,394
1,976,531
1,870,058
Program support
34,039
44,419
Consultants
17,897
2,300
51,936
46,719
Rent and facility maintenance
400,000
185,000
Amortization
61,413
74,138
461,413
259,138
125,825
151,474
Program expenditures
Facilities
Administration
Office
Professional fees and memberships
40,374
37,150
Insurance
11,986
11,627
178,185
200,251
2,668,065
Excess (deficiency) of revenue over expenses
$ (37,789)
2,376,166
47,604
23
arbi
making life better
Association for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured
Help make life better for a brain
injury survivor. Please donate today:
www.arbi.ca/give
[email protected]
3412 Spruce Drive SW
Calgary, Alberta T3C 3A4
Phone: 403-242-7116 Fax: 403-242-7478
BN# 14059 9507 RR0001
Illustrations – Julie McLaughlin, whatwouldjuliedraw.com
Layout and original photography – Josh Naud
Historical photography – Courtesy of John and Margaret Lathrop, and Lori Hart
Copy – Ana Gollega, Bruce Murray, Jane Dafoe, John Lathrop, Josh Naud, Mary Anne Ostapovitch,
Mary Ellen Neilson, Tanya Brinkerhoff and Terry Craig
Edited by – Jane Dafoe and Josh Naud
On the cover – Claudia, pictured at Little Monday. Photo by Josh Naud
This report was made possible by
24