2012 winter headline

7/30/2019 2012 Winter Headline

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BRITISH COLUMBIAS VOICE FOR THE BRAIN INJURY COMMUNITY Winter 2012

Happy Birthday,

Frdric Ct!Story Page 12

THE BIG BANKPRINCE GEORGE BRAIN

INJURED GROUPStory Page 22


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"The efforts of your highly competent legal

team resulted in my seriously injured brain

damaged son being looked after and

nancially secured for the rest of his life.

We are most grateful. I particularly

appreciate Mr. Simpson coming to

Korea to help set up the care

for my son"

- J. HWA

Brain Injury

Paraplegia

Quadriplegia

Spinal Cord Injury

BERNIE SIMPSON, C.M.Member Order of Canada

Recipient of the Queens Jubilee Medal

Eloisa De Lorenzo Awarded in Washington, D.C.on behalf of Brain Injury Survivors

Reduced legal fees on brain injury, paraplegia and quadriplegia cases

WE HANDLE ALL OF THE EXPENSESFREE Consultation. If no recovery, no legal frees or expenses.

Helping brain injury victims and their families

for over 40 years.

E. ANTHONY THOMASExtensive experience in motor vehiclecases for 20 years

www.simpsonthomas.com

Surrey/Delta Office

7253 120th Street,Delta, BC

Ph: 604-591-8885

VancouverOffice

808 Nelson Street, Suite 1512,Vancouver, BC

Ph: 604-689-8888

TOLL FREE: Throughout BC 1-800-668-3788

(24 hrs Emergency Service)

LOW LEGAL FEESWith over 40 years experience handling exclusively motor vehicle injury claims

ICBC claims only


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SudokuThe rules of Sudoku are simple. Place a digit

from 1 to 9 in each empty cell so every row, every

column, and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on page 21

headline 3

Message from the EditorJanelle Breese Biagioni

Greetings!

8 5 1 9

6 4

9 2 7 4

4 1 27

3 6 5

4 5 7 9

8 6

2 9 4 1

community therapistsBuilding skills. Empowering people.TM

604-681-9293, Ext 153#207-5740 Cambie St. Vancouver, BC V5Z 3A6

www.communitytherapists.com

Community Integration

Driver Rehabilitation

Vocational Rehabilitation

OTs, PTs, SLPs, RAs

GVRD, Fraser Valley,

Van. Island, Sea-to-Sky

At the time of writing this greeting, hundreds of

thousands of people are struggling to cope withthe aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. More than 110individuals in approximately 9 states lost their livesas a result of this super storm. The ripple effect oftheir deaths will be felt far and wide as families andfriends learn of their fate. Many survivors of Sandyhave lost their possessions in piles of rubble, otherswere ooded and without power. The devastationphysically, spiritually, emotionally and nancially isof magnitude proportions. As the holidays approach,

take time to send a prayer to those affected by this

major disaster and wish them comfort and peaceduring this difcult time.

In this issue, we feature Fred Ct, a young manwho is making tremendous strides in his recovery.Prince George Brain Injury Group is keeping busyand submitted an article on a unique initiative in theirorganization to assist their members with banking.We have all the usual tidbits too and appreciate thesupport we have received this year from all of youin submitting your articles, poems and notications.Moreover, we are extremely grateful to our adver-tisers your support is the backbone of Headline.Thank you!

In closing, Santa and I wish you all a joyous andcozy holiday season. Take time to live, love, laugh,and to make memories!

See you all in 2013.Holiday hugs, Mrs. Claus


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headlineis published quarterly by

Mike Rossiter

5851 Kittiwake Drive

Richmond, BC V7E 3P1

Editor

Janelle Breese Biagioni

2031 Gourman Pl

Victoria, BC V9B 6A9

Email: [email protected]

HEADLINE welcomes letters and relevant

articles for publication, and reserves the right to

edit any accepted submissions for clarity and length. A

signature, address, and telephone number are required.

Please contact Janelle Breese Biagioni

for copy deadlines.

Mike Rossiter and HEADLINE editors take no

responsibility for, nor do they necessarily agree

with, the opinions contained in articles, letters

or advertising.

Contact Janelle Breese Biagioni

at 250-592-4460 for information.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS?We would like to keep our

mailing list up-to-date!

If you have moved or would like to

be on the mailing list, please

contact Mary Lou at: 604-274-5478

or email her at: mlr @t el us .n et(Please putHEADLINEin subject line of email)

40981507

Government Resources

Regional Health Authoritys ABI Coordinators:Fraser Health - Aquired Brain injury Program-604-520-4175Interior Health Authority-250-870-4664,Contact Name: Deborah PrestonAcquired Brain Injury Program, Northern Health

Call 250-565-7393Vancouver Coastal Health Authority-604-714-4159Vancouver Island Health Authority- 250- 370-8699,Contact Name: Judith ArmstrongEnquiry BC-to locate Provincial Government Departments Lower Mainland 604-660-2421 Outside Lower Mainland 1-800-663-7867 Victoria 250-387-6121Ministry of Advanced Education, Training and Technology:Open Learning Information: In and Outside Lower Mainland 1-800-663-1633Student Loan Information: Lower Mainland 604-660-2610 Outside Lower Mainland 1-800-561-1818- select 1 then 5

Public Guardian & Trustee of British Columbia: 700-808 West Hastings St. Vancouver, BC V6B 3L3Victims Info Line: 1-800-563-0808Adult and Youth Addiction Services: Lower Mainland 604-660-9382 Outside Lower Mainland 1-800-663-1441

Community Resources

BC Coalition of People with DisabilitiesAdvocacy Access Program for assistance with provincial and

federal disability benefitsLower Mainland 604-872-1278Outside Lower Mainland 1-888-663-1278

Bus Pass for Persons with Disabilities and SeniorsLower Mainland 604-682-0391Outside Lower Mainland 1-888-661-1566

Tim Readman, Executive DirectorStroke Recovery Association of BCPhone: 604-688-3603 Toll Free: 1-888-313-3377www.strokerecoverybc.ca

Cerebral Palsy Association of BCLower Mainland Voice and TTY 604-515-9455

Outside Lower Mainland 1-800-663-0004Community Brain Injury Program for Children & Youth in BCToll Free 1-877-451-5511http://www.centreforability.bc.ca/?page=14

Epilepsy BCLower Mainland 604-875 6704Outside Lower Mainland 1-866-374-5377Victoria 250-475-6677

Information Services Vancouver604-875-6381


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Pac ifi c Coas t Brai n Inj ury Co nfe rencewww.pcbic.org

BC Br ain Injury Ass oc iat ionwww. bcbraininjuryassociat ion.com

Campbell River Head Injury Support Societywww.crhead.ca

Fras er Val ley Br ai n Injury As so ci ati onwww.fvbia.org

Br ain Trus t Ca na dawww.braintrustcanada.comwww.protectyourhead.com

Na na imo Br ai n Injury Soc ietywww.nbis.ca.

Powell River Br ain Injury Societywww.braininjurysociety.ca

Prince Geo rge Br ai n Injured Grou p Soci et ywww.pgbig.ca

Brai n Injury Re so urce swww.braininjuryresources.org

Ontario Brain Injury Associationwww.obia.on.ca

Brai n Injur y Ass oc iat ion US Awww.biausa.org

Sou th Oka na ga n Similkam een BI Soci etywww.sosbis.com

Victoria Brain Injury Societywww.vbis.ca

The Perspective Networkwww.tbi.org

The TBI Chat Roomwww.tbichat.org

G.F. Strong Rehabwww.gfstrong.com

BC Epl ileps y Soc ietywww.bcepilepsy.com

Head way Ce ntr eHow e Sou nd Re hab ilitat ion Servi ce s Society

www.howesound.netNo rthe rn Brai n Injury As so ci ati on

www.nbia.cawww.thinkfirst .ca

www.brainstreams.ca

Headline is a proud supporter of

Learn Connect Find

I N T E R N E T

Resources

Captain Trevor Greene and his wife, Debbie, are

celebrating two unique accomplishments this year.The rst was last summer when Trevor, Debbie and

their daughter Grace, welcomed into their family a

beautiful baby boy named, Noah. The second oc-

curred in November, when Trevor was awarded the

Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal at Gov-

ernment House in Victoria, BC.

The commemorative medal was

created to mark the 2012 cele-

brations of the 60th anniversary

of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth

IIs accession to the Throne as

Queen of Canada. The pres-

tigious medal is a unique way

for Canadians to honour Her

Majesty and acknowledge her

sixty years of service to our

country. The medal was also

designed to honour 60,000

Canadians for their signicant

contribution and achievements.

Captain Greene was serving inAfghanistan when an insurgent

struck him in the back of the

head with an axe. His tremen-

dous and inspirational journey

through rehabilitation and

recovery is documented in

March Forth, a book written by

him and his wife.


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Suite 400 - 601 West BroadwayVancouver, BC V5Z 4C2

toll free 1.800.590.SALT

t. 604.871.4306

health

Group Homes Support Home Sharing Rehabilitation

www.saltgrasshealth.com

Cheshire Homes Society of British Columbia

Acceptance, Empowerment,Independence, Opportunity

Providing Transit ional, Slower Stream andApartment Based Rehabilitation Programs forAcquired Brain Injury since 1984.Cheshire Homes Society o BC,Head Ofce #202 625 5th AvenueNew Westminster, BC, V3M 1X4Phone: (604) 540-0686www.cheshirehomes.ca a member of the Leonard Cheshire Disability Global Alliance

It would be wonderful if someone could explain toour readers how this is possible: The income sup-port program for persons with disabilities differsgreatly for those living in British Columbia. Why?

On February 10, 2012, the Government of Canada

sent out a news release stating they will double thethreshold for employment exemptions from $400 -$800 per month for single Assured Income for theSeverely Handicapped (AISH) clients. In October,the BC Government increased the earnings exemp-tion for persons with disabilities from $500 to $800per person. So in this respect, BC appears to beon par; however, looking at the monthly benetspayable, the backgrounder with the news releaseshared the following table and the BC rates seem todiffer vastly:

Provincial Income Support Programsfor Persons with Disabilities

Maximum Monthly Benefit for Persons with Disabilities

Alberta (AISH) $1,588 effective April 1, 2012

Ontario DisabilitySupport Program (ODSP)$1,064 February 2012

British Columbia Employment & Assistancefor Person with Disabilities(BCEA) $906 February 2012

In researching the Government of British Columbiaswebsite, specically the Ministry of Social Develop-

ment, it is impossible to nd the base rate payable

to the individual. It does conrm the increase to the

earnings exemption and it also provides a 2007

table disclosing the shelter rate per person as be-

ing $375 per month. This is also the current rate

in 2012, yet the average one bedroom apartment

in the greater Vancouver area exceeds $1,000 per

month. It doesnt take much of a mathematician to

see that the monthly benet of $906 is/can be totally

consumed by the rent without factoring in utilities or

food.

It is a great incentive to allow individuals to work and

earn up to $800 per month in addition to their basepension. And if they have the capacity to work even

part time, then they should.

But what if the person is not able to work?

Many survivors are not able to return to work ever

in any capacity. Should they be penalized? If they

are restricted to living on $906 per month, it feels

that way. In British Columbia, many survivors of

brain injury have no other nancial support than that

of PWD pension.

The next provincial election is slated for May 13,

2013. It would be a good time for those seeking

election to take up this cause on behalf of their

constituents. With 8,000 14,000 newly acquired

brain injuries occurring each year in British Colum-

bia (added to those with existing injuries) the chance

of voters in any city or town being affected by this is

high.

The Despairing Difference in Income Support Programs

RaincoastCommunity Rehabilitation

Services wher e you live, work and play

2392 Kingsway tel: 604.444.3770

Vancouver, BC fax: 604.444.3729

V5R 5G9 toll free: 1.800.535.9988

[email protected] www.raincoastrehab.ca


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30 years of experience

helping brain injuredvictims and their families.

Murphy Battista LLPT: 604.683.9621Toll-free 1.888.683.9621Fax 604.683.5084E: [email protected] - 650 West GeorgiaStreetBox 11547, Vancouver Cen-

Joe Murphy, Q.C. Joe Battista, Q.C. J. Scott StanleyDerek Mah Steve Gibson Brian BrookeIrina Kordic Kevin Gourlay Angela Price-StephensAlex Sayn-Wittgenstein

Are YOU ready for December? No, Im not talking about carols,decorations and Christmas. Im talking about the end of theyear when its time to make sure you have all you stuff readyto prepare your income tax returns. Already youre saying toyourself that you dont need to think about that yet but it really istime to start preparing.

In addition to the usual - getting your T-4s for wages and otherincome - there are some areas to consider if you have a severeand prolonged disability that affects your daily living or if you arecaregiver for someone who does.

First and foremost, does this disability affect ones daily livingin the area of feeding, dressing, speaking, bowel and bladderfunctions, or performing the mental functions that are necessaryfor everyday life? If this fits your situation then you may qualifyfor a disability tax credit. You think that you dont have enoughincome to bother? Perhaps you are right, but you might be ableto transfer this tax credit to someone else.

If you require an assistant to enable you to perform your dailyactivities and pay for that help you must have a doctor confirmthis need in writing and you must get a receipt from the assist-ant (with their social insurance number noted on it for CRA ref-erence). The cost of this assistance is a tax deductible expensefor you.

In addition, every person should keep ALL their receipts formedical expenses prescriptions, physiotherapy, massage by aregistered massage therapist, hearing aids and batteries, coun-selling and everything else of a medical nature. If your doctor

prescribes a medication that is available over the counter askthat he write it out on a prescription form and attach your receiptto that form for consideration. Many of the deductions must bepaid to a professional who normally offers such services andpayments to a relative are not eligible. In almost all cases, to beeligible for a deduction, there must be an accompanying note/

letter from a doctor clearly outlining the necessity of the serviceor device. These receipts do not have to be claimed on a Janu-ary through December basis but can be for the 12 month periodthat gives you the most benefit (so long as it ends in the currentcalendar year).

Finally, a caregiver might be eligible for a caregiver deduction,which is an amount for a relative of yours, or your spouse orcommon-law partners, who is dependent on you because of aphysical or mental infirmity.

This is only a summarized overview of things to consider. Theimportant thing to remember is to be prepared have yourdocuments collected so you dont miss anything and have proof

for every deduction as well as doctors confirmation of your im-pairment. When it comes time to actually filing your Income TaxReturn, please have someone experienced in filing for personswith infirmities help you so as to ensure you get the maximumdeductions allowable. This does not usually include the kiosk inthe mall or grocery store tax preparers.

If you have any questions, please dont hesitate to email me [email protected].

ITS TIME TO GET READY!!By Shirley Johnson


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Greg Goldberg, a contractor in the Cridge BrainInjury Services program, was appalled to learn thata large number of teenagers and adults simply re-fuse to wear a helmet while riding their bikes. Gregstates, I was even more appalled to be informedthat the prime reason causing fear amongst riders to

wear a helmet was prepare yourself for shockdreaded helmet hair.

Gregs shock and dismay with this all too commonreason for not wearing a helmet is further fueled byhis personal experience. Greg knows rsthand thechallenges and struggle to regain life after being in-volved in a horric car crash while driving to work in1998. Although Gregs injury was not bicycle related,the decits and impact a brain injury had on his lifemirrors hundreds, if not thousands, of people livingwith an acquired brain injury. Each year between

8,000 and 14,000 British Columbians acquire abrain injury resulting from an external blow to thehead (e.g. concussion, bike crash, car crash, andfalls) vascular injuries, anoxia, metabolic disease,brain tumors, brain atrophy, and poisoning.

Following an extensive rehabilitation, Greg learnedto adapt to his limitations and to be proactive inmanaging and structuring his life so he can enjoy itto the fullest. One way that Greg was able to re-lease the tension and stress of what happened wasto keep a journal. Keeping a journal was such a

release and outlet that I decided to write a ctionalbook based on my real life experience, states Greg.Gregs book The Organ of Intelligenceis a darkcomedy telling the story of Reuban Cohen, a braininjury survivor.

The bike helmet laws in British Columbia are cur-rently under attack. Riders are reluctant to weara helmet for short trips and feel inconveniencedby carrying one around with them. Greg believesas a society we must come with creative ways toconvince bike riders that wearing a helmet is safe,

fashionable and should be a common practice.

In reaction to this unfortunately growing, danger-ous habit, Greg inspired a partnership between TheCridge Centre for the Family and British ColumbiaBrain Injury Association to design a unique stickerwith a slogan that will certainly imprint itself on thetarget audiences subconscious. The campaignsgoal is to spur bike riders and sports enthusiasts tobecome more safety conscious in regards to headprotection.

We strongly believe that advocating for such aworthy cause will help prevent bike riders fromsuffering a life-altering disability. This campaign willbuild head injury protection awareness and help Brit-ish Columbians to be safe.

To learn more about this campaign email Greg [email protected]. Be sure to visit the followingwebsites: www.tbitalks.com, www.cridge.org, andwww.braininjuryassociation.com.

Helmet Hair or Long Term Care?

TakeaBreak

U B S A N T A R W J B L A N K E T E U K NG I R N O I T A R O C E D M E K X E E V VE S F R I E N D S M T F C C N N S R O Q SC Z D Y L O Q N D S C Q A C A B H T C U TA C D R V M R S M A F W F Z C R W E O U NL S M E B E C O T S V C O K Y U E H O U EP Y M F T C I O T O O I O U D D B E K V SE A I L W L N X U W C S D V N O T O I N ER D L E J H N Q R R C K D O A L S E N P RI I K C L H A C K M C J I C C P N T G B P

F L Y T Y L M L E O S X S N Q H O A Q W H

U O A I L R O S Y B A I B N G S W L V I SC H D O L E N E J F M L J Y K L B O E Y NS Y H N S L G I V D T G W Z U E A C E T OG U A K Y I E K Q P S V T Y R I L O S I WF K K W Y X P O U G I V I N G G L H D R MA K K W O T T O F C R G C J O H T C P A AM M U A F N P C P O H J Y H M J D T F H NI U N Q U V S U Q L C P A V U O H O H C JL J A R H S H E C D K L I G H T S H Y H AY U H G Z U S P I R I T A P Z D T C V D W

Find the following hidden words:

blanket food Santacandy cane friends sleighcharity giving snowChristmas Hanukkah snowballcinnamon holidays snowmancold hot chocolate spiritcookies lights stockingcooking milk treedecoration presents turkeyfamily reflectionfireplace Rudolph


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Brain injury is devastating. Lives are turned upside down.

We offer not just a house, but homes for people at all levels of abilities,a foundation to build relationships and be connected to the community.

Our transitional and residential rehab programs are developed and guidedby rehab professionals, designed for each individuals unique needs

and implemented on a daily basis.

CONNECTs mission is simple...to make lives better.

In Langley call In Lake Country callJanette Jackman Christy McKeating

604-534-0705 [email protected] [email protected]

Please visit our website at www.connectcommunities.ca


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A team of experienced professionals sensitive to

the needs of both the survivor and the family.

We travel to you

Suite 600-175 Second Avenue, Kamloops, BC V2C 5W1

T: 250.372.1221 TF: 1.800.558.1933E: [email protected]

www.hmzlaw.com

David Marr Q.C. Tara Decker Kevin Cowan Corey Lencovic Joseph Zak

We care about your future

Every year, families search for the perfect holidayactivity that provides fun and isnt expensive. Whatbetter way to bring your family, friends andneighbours together than with an even-ing of singing Christmas carols. It isfun and inexpensive and a greatway to kick start the holidays! Hereare some ideas to help you getstarted:

Invite your family, friends andneighbours to join in the fun.Be sure to have at least oneadult for every two children.

You will need a set of songsfor each caroler. You can gatherthe songs from your local newspapers, or nd the words on theinternet, print, and place in a sturdy folder foreach person. The folders can be made and

decorated ahead of time. Although glowing candles will set the festivetone, for safety reasons, only adults should carrycandles. Be sure to use the dripless tapers toprevent burns. Children should carry ashlights.

Dress in warm layers of clothes, includingwaterproof boots, warm hats, gloves and scarves.It wont be much fun if you are cold!

Ask everyone to bring a Santa hat to wear, orto purchase glittery stars from the dollar store and

make a wreath to wear on their head. Finish the night off by gathering in a

warm house for hot cocoa and snacks. Ask everyone to bring their favorite

treat to share.Here are a couple of favorites to getyou startedWe Wish You a Merry Christmas

We wish you a Merry Christmas;


We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy

New Year.

Good tidings to you and your kin;

Good tidings for Christmas and a Happy New

Year.

Oh, bring us a ggy pudding;

Oh, bring us a ggy pudding;

Oh, bring us a ggy pudding and a cup of good cheer.

We wont go until we get some;

We wont go until we get some;

We wont go until we get some, so bring some out here.



We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Frosty the Snowman

Frosty the snowman was a jolly happy soul,

With a corncob pipe and a button noseAnd two eyes made out of coal.

Frosty the snowman is a fairy tale, they say,

He was made of snow but the children

Know how he came to life one day.

There must have been some magic in that

Old silk hat they found.

For when they placed it on his head

He began to dance around.

O, Frosty the snowman

Was alive as he could be,

And the children say he could laughAnd play just the same as you and me.

Thumpety thump thump,


Look at Frosty go.



Over the hills of snow.


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Headline is also available in PDF format.If you would like a copy sentto your email address contactMary Lou by email at: [email protected] add Headline to the subject line

It wasnt until a camping trip to Sombrio beach thissummer that I truly could articulate the magic of

community. My friend and I set up camp beside twoother tents. Not a cloud in the sky, we were ab-sorbing the rare perfection of summer heat by thesurf. We opened our space to two people adjacent,each a solo camper. Slowly we warmed up to oneanother, sitting closer and closer. Eventually webecame heavily invested in the other, unknowingly,we created a community.

My mother, from a young age, lled my head withfear and worry. Although I resisted, it was impos-sible for this not to sit heavy in my brain. It took meyears to acknowledge times when I experienced

anxiety in situations my mother excessively worriedabout. She never camped, and every time I wouldinform her of a trip, a cacophony of whines followed:how dangerous the cougars, bears, spiders, andpoisonous plants could be. In her world, death isbehind every shrub, every doorstep. Its a miracleshe can leave the house.

On previous camping trips, there were moments Icaught myself being my mother. Scrutinizing eachsound, feeling that twang of anxiety at the thought ofimpending danger. Despite loving the outdoors, andgenerally not being fearful of the wildlife, my mind

would always be on alert; every brush of wind in theleaves would stir me, I rarely rested well. Crummysleeps would never keep me from camping, and Inever investigated why I couldnt snore the nightaway like a well-fed cat.

My counselor once asked me to question when I amcoming from a place of fear, or a place of love. She

said this like love is the antidote to fear. That reallysat with me. Our four-person Sombrio commun-ity was built on love; we shared life stories, werevulnerable, we hugged, we cooked meals together,and sat as pinholes under the stars, each a slightlydifferent viewpoint on life. That was the most restfulsleep I had ever had camping; perhaps ever. WhenI questioned that, something clicked. Because we allconnected in that way, it was like being at home. Wehad each others backs. I was protected and loved.

Being a Support Worker the concept of communityis fundamental. What impact do day-to-day social

interactions have? How does being transparent tostrangers, so they can see through the other per-spective, change the way we care for and treat oneanother? Community is saying, We are one. Thelatter perspective creates a space of love and com-passion. Generally, as people we want to do nicethings for those we care about. When we do nicethings, we are sharing resources. When everyone isfed, housed, loved and supported, fear is dispelledand we all succeed.

Communityby Larissa Szlavik


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Personal Injury ICBC

Medical Negligence

Bill Morley

Tenacity Persistence Determination

Free home and

hospital visits

[email protected]

Vancouver Calgary Toronto Montreal

Quebec New York London Johannesburg

604 631 3127

Free initial consultation

Percentage feesavailable

Focused on your needs

Frdric Ct was born December 5, 1992. He cameinto this world a bouncing 8.5 lbs. with bright eyesand seemingly to smile at the world. His addictivesmile has always been a strong indicator that he wasgame to try anything. Fred celebrates his twentiethbirthday this year. He and his family will not onlyrejoice the beautiful person he is, but they will alsocelebrate his courage, determination and commitmentto overcoming the challenges that he has endured forthe past two years.

Two years ago, Fred was studying at KwantlenPolytechnic University in Richmond. He was work-ing part-time in Richmond Mall and enjoyed datinghis girlfriend, Charlotte and hanging with his bestfriend, Ryan Cuthbert. He spoke three languages(French, English & Spanish), and played MidgetAAA Baseball and was known for his base running.In fact, he ran so fast he was nicknamed Gazelle.In all respects, Fred was just a regular guy, living aregular life. However, on December 30, 2010, whileengaging in what one would think is a harmlessarm wrestling match with a buddy, Fred and hisfamily learned he had been born with Arteriovenous

Malformation (AVM), a serious condition. AVM is anabnormal connection between veins and arteriesthat forms before birth. Less than 1% of people areborn with this condition. Friend and hero, StevenThaker took charge and called 9-1-1. Fred andall who love him are forever grateful for his quickresponse.

Freds parents, Elisabeth and Jean Pierre (JP) andyounger brother, Sbastien, were at home whenthey got the fateful call around 12:30 a.m. Theirson was only a few blocks away at a house party.

They assumed Fred was calling for a ride home.Instead they were told to get to Vancouver GeneralHospital right away. The family learned that Fredheard a kind of popping in his head and then said,I have the worst headache ever take me to thehospital. Fred underwent a ve hour surgery. Thisis when the doctor explained to the family aboutAVM.

On New Years Eve, Fred underwent a secondemergency surgery to remove the ap bones

Happy Birthday, Fred Ct!


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on the left and right sides of his head to release

the pressure that was building. Fred remained in acoma in ICU for three weeks. From VGH, Fred wasmoved to Ponoka, Alberta, for brain injury rehabilita-tion. He remained there from June 2011 through toDecember 2011. During his stay in Ponoka, JP andElisabeth took turns traveling from their home in thelower mainland to Alberta. While one parent waswith Fred, the other was with 14-year-old Sbastien.

Once Fred completed his rehabilitation in Ponoka,he relocated to Connect Lake Country, which pro-vides both transitional rehabilitation services and

residential services. Freds family and friends con-tinue to visit with him and be involved with his recov-ery every step of the way. For example,Sbastian, who has always had a good relationshipwith his older brother, downloads music for him andwhen the family Skype with Fred, Sbastien playshis guitar for him. Charlotte is now studying at Con-cordia University in Montreal; however, she remainsin contact with Fred too. They will remain friendsforever, explains Elisabeth.

Fred continues to work very hard at his rehabilita-

tion. Patti Flaherty, Executive Director, shared thesethoughts, Fred is simply amazing. He is fun, easygoing and full of curiosity. He reminds us that withlots of time, focused support and continual hope,people can make unexpectedly great results. Fredepitomizes positivity despite numerous and on-going challenges he strives forward. He has a fear-less spirit and is open to taking smart risks and to beinvolved in whatever opportunities are open to him.This fearless free spirit helps him to master thingsthat most would not have thought would ever bein his reach. It has been a privilege to be a part ofFreds journey toward redesigning his life since hisinjury. He has taught the folks at CONNECT LakeCountry so much.

Elisabeth has kept all of Freds family and friendsup-to-date with his journey by creating a group onFacebook. Amongst the two years of postings, read-ers will come across the following list, which wasposted on March 18, 2011. People were asked toread this before visiting with Fred. It could becomethe creed for survivors of brain injury:

21 THINGS I NEED THE MOST!1: I am not stupid, I am wounded. Please respect me.

2: Come close; speak slowly, and enunciate clearly.

3: Repeat yourself-assume I know nothing and start from thebeginning over and over.

4: Be as patient with me the 20th time you teach me

something, as you were the first time.5: Approach me with an open heart and slow your energy

down, take your time.

6: Be aware of what your body language and facialexpressions are communicating to me.

7: Make eye contact with me. I am in here-come find me,encourage.

8: Please dont raise your voice-Im not deaf, Im wounded.

9: Touch me appropriately and connect with me.

10: Honor the healing power of sleep.

11: Protect my energy, nervous visitors!!!!!!

12: Ask me questions with specific answers. Allow me time tohunt for an answer.

13: Do not assess my cognitive ability by how fast I can think.

14: Handle me gently, as you would handle a newborn.

15: Speak to me directly, not about me to others.

16: Cheer me on. Expect me to recover completely, even ittakes 20 years!

17: Trust that my brain can always continue to learn.

18: Please dont finish my sentences for me or fill in words I

cant find. I need to work my brain.19: I may want you to think I understand more than I really do.

20: Remember that in the absence of some functions, I havegained other abilities.

21: Love me for who I am today. Dont hold me to being theperson I was before.

To learn more about Fred, join his group at https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/182113418479365/. To learn aboutConnect Lake Country, where Fred currently resides, visit www.

connectcommunities.ca.

Photos include left to right Freds Mother,

Elisabeth, youngerbrother, Sbastien, CarlyMoore, (Connect staff), Jean Pierre (JP), Freds

dad and far right Tez Lemvohee, (physical

coach). Cover photo with Fred includes Leanne

Carter from Connect.


14/24

headline 14

Columbia Speech &Language Services Inc.Improving Communication Throughout Your Life.T: 604.875.9100 E: [email protected]

columbiaspeech.com

After brain in jury, trouble with speaking, listening, reading, writing orwith social communication is common. We are here to help.

Assessment and treatment of speech, language and swallowingdisorders in eight languages, for children and adults

Sessions at home, at school or at your worksite in locationsthroughout the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley or at our offices

Family education and caregiver training Expert witness assessments and reports

Communication devices and alternative communication methods

Troubleexpressing

yourself?

We can help!

For survivors of Brain Injury, their family, friends& caregiversby survivors of Brain Injury, theirfamily, friends & caregivers, B.R.A.I.N. has strivedto meet the needs of its members since its concep-tion in 1999. We began as a small support group in

New Westminster, initiated by the B.C. Brain InjuryAssociation. Over the years we have evolved to alarge network of members with representatives inall areas of the Province. As we are neither a busi-ness nor a Non-prot Society, we manage to providea variety of services by dedicating many volunteerhours and invaluable support from our communitypartners including the ICBC Facilitated Family Sup-port Program.

In the past, we provided a support & recreationalprogram for Children of Survivors of Brain Injury,a Mentorship Program, Pool n Pizza Nite, main-tained an ofce at G.F. Strong Rehab Centre inwhich we provided outreach services, a supportgroup specically for male & female survivors, adiscussion group for family members, produced amusical CD of original songs written and performedby Survivors and other programs which followed theneeds of our membership.

We currently provide facilitated support groups forsurvivors, family members, friends and caregivers inNew Westminster, Surrey, Richmond and Burnaby

as well as a monthly education & discussion meet-ing in which a service provider in the eld of BrainInjury presents to the group on a given topic of inter-est. We also provide a monthly psycho-social basedgathering which we have coined as Friday FrappeFrenzy where interested members are invited toa local coffee shop to socialize and meet others.Recently, we developed a recreational group wherewe coordinate a monthly outing. This new group hasrecently enjoyed adaptive kayaking, mini-golf anda museum tour and carousel ride. We continue tohost annual Summer Pot-luck BBQs and an annual

BRAIN RESOURCE, ADVOCACY & INFORMATION NETWORK

(B.R.A.I.N.)by Tina Suter, Member Services Coordinator


15/24

headline 15

LET OUR EXPERIENCE

WORK FOR YOU

Free Initial Consultation,

Home and Hospital Visits

No fees until you collect

Steve Heringa Brad Garside

Call us now

604.683.1211or toll free 1.800.669.8599

Emai l : [email protected]

www.PElawyers.com

I.C.B.C. CLAIMS

BRAIN INJURY

SPINAL INJURY

DISABILITY INSURANCE

PAINE EDMONDS L.L.P.

PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS

Christmas Party where we also solicit donations forfood hampers to distribute to our most needy mem-bers.

As always, we continue to provide outreach, ad-vocacy and resources for our many members. Allservices are provided free of charge and at all times,energy and supports are given voluntarily. Guid-ance is gratefully provided by long time associateDavid Doig from David H. Doig & Associates and

our B.R.A.I.N. Storm Education & InformationNite meetings are gratefully co-sponsored by HoweSound Rehab Services Societys Headway Centers.Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association has been kindenough to administer any funds provided throughICBC and also offered us discounts in order toattend their invaluable community education work-shops.

It is our fellow service providers and communitiesworking together that create successful outcomesfor our many members. As B.R.A.I.N. is solely aself- help, volunteer entity, it is important to take

this opportunity to thank each and every one for theirdedication and belief in assisting fellow Survivors.

Recently an award was received for outstandingservice provision; it must be noted that services arerewarding to provide when one has members whoare dedicated to recovery, optimistic and courage-ous.

Thanks to Headline for their ongoing support andmany years of providing a voice for the ProvincialBrain Injury community. And, as B.R.A.I.N. enters its14th year we will continue to strive to provide sup-port and understanding to our Brain Injury Survivors,

their families, friends and caregivers.We can be contacted via telephone at: 604-540-9234, e-mail: [email protected] or our Face bookpage (Brain Resource, Advocacy & InformationNetwork).


16/24

headline 16

ACQUIRED BRAIN INJURY (ABI)?. . . with an ABI, a One-Day Functional Capacity Evaluationis not enough to determine ability to return to work . . .

INTRODUCING THE 3-DAY ABI WORK CAPACITY ASSESSMENT...a longer assessment allows for a comprehensive evaluation of themultiple symptoms associated with Acquired Brain Injury....

The 3-DAY ABI WORK CAPACITY ASSESSMENT WILL GATHER OBJECTIVEINFORMATION REGARDING:

Physical ability to perform work tasksCognitive skills to complete work demandsBehavioural skills to participate in work relationships

Call us for more information

OT CONSULTING/TREATMENT SERVICES LTD.

210 - 3438 Lougheed Highway,Vancouver, BC V5M 2A4T: 604.215.3660 F: 604.215.3669E: [email protected]

Roundabouts are becoming increasinglypopular throughout the world as an ef-fective type of intersection meant toreduce trafc crashes and trafcnoise. The rules for pedestrians,

cyclists and drivers seem to befairly simple; however, thereis often some doubt on whatthe protocol for entering andexiting a trafc circle is. Thisshould help.

The following information arti-cle is available on TransportCanadas website and alsoas a downloadable brochure athttp://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafe-

ty/tp-tp14787-menu-179.htm.What is a roundabout?

A roundabout is an intersection where trafcows in a counter clockwise circle around a centreisland.

How Do I Use a Roundabout? -

Drivers

1. Approach

Reduce your speed.

Watch for signs thatmay help you ndyour exit.

Watch for peopleusing the crosswalk,and be ready tostop.

2.Yield

Yield to trafcalready in

roundaboutthat comes

from yourimmediate left

as before you enter.

3.Enter

Enter the roundabout to your right (a counter clock-wise direction) when there is a gap in trafc and youfeel it is safe to do so.

Continue until you reach your exit.

4. Exit

Never come to a full stop in a roundabout unlesstrafc conditions require it.

Use your right turn signal to let other road usersknow where you plan to exit.

Exit at a slow speed.

As you exit, watch for people using the crosswalk,and be ready to stop.

Do You Know How to Use a Roundabout?


17/24

headline 17

email : [email protected]

Suite 1450

1188 W Georgia Street

Vancouver BC V6E 4A2

Free initial consultation

Serving clients worldwide

who have been injured in BC

Flexible appointment times &

locations convenient for you

Handle all legal expenses

Tel: 604.687.8874

Fax: 604.687.8134

Toll Free: 877.687.8844

Regaining Your Quality Of Life is our goal. We work together

with your rehabilitation team to ensure that you receive the

best possible rehabilitation while at the same time securing full,

lifetime compensation for you and your family.

Our experienced team offers specialized expertise with a human

touch. Give us a call and then decide.

traumatic brain and spinal cord injury

specializedexpertise with a human touch

If you miss your exit, keep going around the round -about until you reach it again.

Pedestrians - Cyclists

Cross at marked cross-walks only. You will ndthem before each roadreaches the roundabout.

Use the sidewalk andsplitter island to wait for agap in trafc that allowsyou time to cross.

Cross one direction oftrafc at a time.

Never cross through the centre island.

Ride your bicycle through the roundabout as amotor vehicle.

Or

Walk your bike across the crosswalk as a pedes-trian.

Why Do They Exist?

To improve road safety

Certain types of collisions that occur in normal inter-sections such as right-angle and head-on collisions

often cause serious injury because trafc is movingquickly. Roundabouts provide a safer way to directtrafc than intersections with stop signs or trafclights. Why? Because:

Trafc moves more slowly through the intersection.

There are no left turns in front of oncomingvehicles.

To keep trafc movingRoundabouts can direct more trafc in less timethan normal intersections. How? Since roundaboutsdo not have stop signs or trafc lights, trafc movesslowly around the circle. This means fewer stopsand delays for drivers.

To reduce noise and air pollution

Roundabouts improve the quality of life for peopleliving nearby. How?

Slow moving trafc makes less noise than trafc

that must stop and start, speed up and brake.

Vehicles dont idle at stop signs or trafc lights. Thismeans drivers use less gas and fewer idling carsmeans less exhaust fumes in the air.

Source: http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/tp-

tp14787-menu-179.htm Retrieved August 15


18/24

headline 18

ReflectionsBy Janelle Breese Biagioni

Theres nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child.Erma Bombeck (1927-1996), American author and humorist

Erma Bombeck was my favorite humorist. She took everydayscenarios and lightened them up with a sprinkling of giggles andgood cheer. It didnt matter the situation, she could make it funny.Behind it all was a willingness to serve in this lifetime by helpingothers to not take life too seriously.

There is no other time of year when the stress odometer is off thecharts and we lose our ability to just chill than Christmas. I loveChristmas and openly admit to being over the top with decoratingand entertaining. But I do it because it is true to my spirit it iswho I am. I dont care if its perfect I care if its memorable.

My greatest joy at Christmas comes from the activities and inter-actions with my grandchildren. I have already been reminded thatwe need to make the reindeer food soon so Rudolph will knowwhere to stop. Every year we plan out a day to make gingerbreadhouses and to make the nuts and bolts together. It is these thingsthe little ones remember. I highly doubt that either could tell youwhat they got under the tree from me last year, but they certainlycan list off the things we do as a yearly tradition.

I pay far more attention to turning my house into a scene remin-iscent of a snow globe rather than trying to make the popularpurchase for those on my list. Shopping isnt my passion; how-

ever, seeking out the best gift for the ones I love gives me greatjoy. But the gift I choose for them is always what I want to givethem its what makes me think of them or exudes who theyare. It doesnt necessarily fall under the top brand names and theyare not all expensive. My chosen gifts are what feel right for thatperson.

I do sympathize with kids though, because they are bombarded24/7 with television commercials telling them what they need toget to be the most popular kid at school. They desperately want thelatest video game or hot outft because that is what the market -ing gurus tell them they need. On the other hand, kids want theholidays to be memorable too. After it is all said and done, they

are looking for the connection, closeness, love and joy that we areall looking for.

While children may be the ones to hold the excitement of Christ-mas in their hearts, it is us, the adults who drive the memory train.Take a look at your family traditions and really celebrate them thisyear. Revise them if you need to or start new ones it is never toolate.

Do your best to make this year a magical adventure!


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headline 19

Colour Theory~ Demian Ryeeld Ford

Seven years ago, I was hit by a car and suffered abrain injury. I spent eight days in a coma. When Iwoke up, I had to re-learn not only how to walk andtalk again, but how to function in many aspects ofmy life. This re-learning has never stopped. To thisday, I sometimes nd myself bafed as to how tobehave naturally in social situations. Most of myfriends tell me this is a normal part of being hu-man. I just dont remember ever feeling like thisbefore the accident, I dont remember ever feelingit this strongly.

After a three month stay in the hospital, I beganvisiting the Victoria Brain Injury Society (VBIS) aspart of the slow process of bridging back into mylife again. This was an incredibly raw and power-ful time for me. Through VBIS, I took a course inpeer counselling, and began volunteering my timehelping other people with brain injuries to bridgeback into their lives too. Unexpectedly, playingthis supportive role for others helped me to healmyself. My past experiences were mirrored backto me; I felt I could see and be seen in a way thatwas deeply meaningful. I began developing an

understanding of the importance of support: anunderstanding of my peers being integral to myhealing process.

Many doctors, nurses, care aid workers, occupa-tional and physical therapists helped me recoverafter the accident. I look back and see many ofthese learned and compassionate people likegentle blind people who received diplomas in col-our theory. Their understanding, although preciseand dedicated with practical applications, was notcomplete.

The community of people in my peer group reectmy experience to me in a language I can under-stand and reshape myself with. Inside this under-standing Im made more aware of my brain injuryand the new person I have become through it. Ihave learned the importance of grieving the loss ofmy old self and to celebrate the parts of my spiritthat have grown stronger. Within this community, Ihave found safety, a place for sudden laughter, ortears. I can be myself here. I dont always encoun-ter that kind of permission in the wider community.

The healing brain can have intense neuroplasticity,able to reshape and rebuild itself in ways we are onlybeginning to understand. While the initial intensitydoes gradually slow as healing progresses, it doesnot stop. Seven years after my brain injury, I am stillpassing remarkable milestones.

In my experience, this miraculous process is en-

hanced when people heal within a community thatunderstands their special needs. However, whenhealing within a community that doesnt understandthose needs, many people recovering from braininjury will experience social disconnection andisolation, with accompanying emotional trauma. Apersons reforming brain can normalize the lack ofempathy they receive, as a successful strategy forliving within a community that fails to include them.Then the clarity needed to envision their own suc-cess, may grow more opaque.

There is a truth about disability: when that disabilityis truly understood and included by our communities,it ceases to be a disability.

Next fall, I graduate from college; it will have takenme four years to complete a two year diploma. Next,Im entering a Social Work program in university. Ilook forward to working with people with brain injur-ies, to help them understand a culture that has onlyjust begun to understand them. I am so grateful that Ihave the opportunity to pay some of my gifts back.

Kristy Westendorp Photography


20/24

headline 20

Here are two recipes to enjoy:

Buttermilk BiscuitsThe Canadian Living Test Kitchen

These buttermilk biscuits are soft, buttery and sureto start your day off right. Theyre also a great make-ahead dough to keep in the freezer for an easyweekend brunch.

Ingredients 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour (625mL) 2 tbsp granulated sugar (30 mL) 2-1/2 tsp baking powder (10 mL) 1/2 tsp baking soda (2 mL) 1/2 tsp salt (2 mL)

1/2 cup cold butter, cubed1(125 mL) cup buttermilk 1 (250 mL) 1 egg

PreparationLine rimless baking sheet with parchment paper, or grease; setaside.

In bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda andsalt. Using pastry blender or 2 knives, cut in butter until in

coarse crumbs. In small bowl, whisk buttermilk with egg; add toflour mixture and stir with fork to make soft dough.With lightly floured hands, press dough into ball. On lightly

floured surface, knead gently 10 times. Pat into 3/4-inch (2 cm)thick round. Using 2-1/2-inch (6 cm) floured round cutter, cut out

rounds. Place on prepared baking sheet.Bake in centre of 400F (200C) oven until golden, 12 to 15 min-utes. (Make-ahead: Let cool. Store in airtight container for up to1 day or wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze in airtight

container for up to 2 weeks.)Source: http://www.canadianliving.com/food/baking_and_desserts/buttermilk_biscuits.php

Homemade Turkey SoupTaste of HomeIngredients 1 leftover turkey carcass (from a10- to 12-pound turkey) 2 quarts water 1 medium onion, halved 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 Spice Islands Bay Leaves 1 cup chopped carrots

1 cup uncooked long grain rice 1/3 cup chopped celery 1/4 cup chopped onion 1 can (10-3/4 ounces)condensed cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup,undiluted

Directions Place the turkey carcass in a stockpot; add the water, onion,salt and bay leaves. Slowly bring to a boil over low heat; coverand simmer for 2 hours.

Remove carcass; cool. Strain broth and skim off fat. Discard

onion and bay leaves. Return broth to the pan. Add thecarrots, rice, celery and chopped onion; cover and simmeruntil rice and vegetables are tender.

Remove turkey from bones; discard bones and cut turkeyinto bite-size pieces. Add turkey and cream soup to broth; heatthrough. Yield: 8-10 servings (about 2 quarts).Prep: 30 min. Cook: 2 hours 35 min.Yield: 8-10 Servings

Source: http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Homemade-Turkey-Soup

A Tummy Warming Meal of Soup and Biscuits

For more information, contact:Barri Marlatt or

Lorenzo Oss-Cech

Personal Injury & Insurance Law

Youre in Good Hands.Our oal is to assist our clients by obtainin

fundin for all of their immediate needs

in order to maimize their otential for

recovery, while we roceed toward

obtainin settlement or judment that

allows a sustainable and encourain

new future.

#1-505 Fisgard Street

Victoria, BC V8W 1R3

250.360.2500

www.hom-law.com

There is something about cold weather that beckons a delicious pot of homemade soup and biscuits for din-ner. Given it is the holiday season there will be plenty of leftover turkey and vegetables to turn into a yummysoup. Add biscuits, a small salad and fresh fruit and your dinner is ready!


21/24

headline 21

HeadsUpWHATS HAPPENING

AROUND THE PROVINCE

BRAINTRUST CANADABrainTrust Canada will host the 2013 Okanagan Conference onBrain Injury, June 13 -14th at the University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus. For more information on the conferenceand programs offered by BrainTrust Canada, please call (250)762-3233 or visit www.braintrustcanada.com.

BULKLEY VALLEY BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION (BVBIA)BVBIA offers case management services, and assistance withaccessing rehabilitation programs, one-on-one emotional sup-port, family support, and social and recreational activities. For

more information, call 250-877-7723.

CAMPBELL RIVER HEAD INJURY SUPPORT SOCIETY(CRHISS)CRHISS provides education, advocacy, support, and fellowship.For more information, call 250-287-4323.

COMOX VALLEY HEAD INJURY SOCIETY (CVHIS)CVHIS welcomes Cathy Stotts as the new Executive Director.CVHIS hosts a weekly drop in luncheon for a nominal cost tosurvivors and their families. For more information, call 250-334-9225 or visit, www.cvheadinjury.com.

FRASER VALLEY BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION (FVBIA)FVBIA is hosting its Fifth Annual Pathway to Hope Gala onSaturday, March 30, 2013 at Northview Golf and Country Club.For more information call 604-557-1913 or (toll free) 1-866-557-1913 or email [email protected].

HOWE SOUND REHABILTATION SERVICES SOCIETYHowe Sound Rehabilitation Services Society is hosting theSea to Sky Aphasia Camp from September 14 16, 2012. Toreceive more information on updates regarding details about the

camp call 604-936-9944 or email [email protected]

KAMLOOPS BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION (KBIA)KBIA offers many services and programs, including casecoordination and life skills support. For more information, call at250-372-1799.

NANAIMO BRAIN INJURY SOCIETY (NBIS)

NBIS offers rehabilitation and case management services, dis-ability benefits assistance, and workshops focusing on issuesranging from trauma recovery to life skills strategies and angermanagement. For more information, call 250-753-5600 or visittheir website at www.nbid.ca.

POWELL RIVER BRAIN INJURY SOCIETY (PRBIS)PRBIS www.braininjurysociety.ca provides support andservices for persons with acquired brain injury, spouses, familymembers and caregivers included. For more information, call604-485-6065 or toll free 1-866-499-6065.

NORTH OKANAGAN-SHUSWAP BRAIN INJURY SOCIETY(NOSBIS)Please take note: Our email addresses have changed to:[email protected] and [email protected]. Please makethe necessary changes in your address books. Contact us forinformation on programs and services.

SOUTH OKANAGAN SIMILKAMEEN BRAIN INJURYSOCIETY (SOSBIS)SOSBIS provides the following services: Case Management,Psychosocial Recreation, Peer Support Cognitive Enhance-

ment, Family Support, Stroke Recovery Support, Education,Personal Support, Womens Support and Prevention and Edu-cation. For more information, visit www.sosbis.com

TRI-CITIES BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUPAs months have gone by, Tri-Cities Brain Injury Support Groupcontinues to have its meetings every 1st Thursday of eachmonth from 2 - 4 pm. At our meetings, friends get together anddiscuss interesting topics and do fun activities. We meet at theCoquitlam Public Library - Poirier Branch on 575 Poirier Street.For more information, please contact Sandi Caverly at 604-

916-5027 or [email protected] or Martin Granger at [email protected]. New members are welcome!

VICTORIA BRAIN INJURY SOCIETY (VBIS)VBIS offers individual and group programs to survivors and theirsupport system. Programs offered include: Peer Support, ABI101, Coping Skills, Personal Enhancement, Creative Arts, aFamily Support Group and Education & Awareness seminars tocommunity groups. For more information call 250-598-9339 orvisit www.vbis.ca.

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cheques to pay their bills as part of their moneymanagement program. Other survivors are alsowelcome to use this service for paying bills too. Asurvivor can deposit the exact amount needed to

pay a bill and we will send a client account chequeto the supplier. Well also keep records of pay-ments made in the survivors le for later reference.It works exactly the same if the survivor needs tomake a purchase over the internet; for example or-dering a birth certicate on-line is way faster & lessexpensive than doing the same thing by mail. Bypaying the exact amount needed in advance BIG willuse the BIG Visa account to place the order.

5.Loans: No matter how carefully you manage yourmoney there are times when a short term loan canmake a huge difference in a persons life. When an

emergency hits survivors are welcome to borrowup to $20 from the BIG loan fund. Its not much butwhen youre on a limited income you dont want toget too far behind anyway. The total available in ourmicro-loan kitty is only $100 but that $100 cyclesaround and around, working for the people whoneed it, over and over and over again. In the 10 +years its been in existence that $100 has boughthundreds of jugs of milk, enough cold medicationto scare off a plague, gas to get at least as far asVancouver and back andthousands upon thousandsof cell phone minutes. Mostimportantly, that $100 hasbought relief and peace ofmind, over & over again!

headline 22

Two weeks between paydays can seem like aneternity for many a wage earner. When it is so hardfor folks with a job to survive with only 2 paydaysa month why is it that we expect the folks with the

smallest monthly income to make it for 4 or some-times 5 weeks between paydays?

WELCOME TO THE BIG BANK!!!PG BIG has teamed up with our bank to help surviv-ors manage their limited nances.

1.Cheque cashing: If you dont have an accountbanks charge a fee to cash a cheque, usually in the$5 range, if theyll cash it at all! Not so with our localCIBC. With one piece ID and a Survivor ID Card,which almost all 300 members of PG BIG carry, ourmembers can cash government or PG BIG chequeswithout charge.

2.Account fees: Fees can be pretty hefty and manysurvivors just cant afford them. For the BIG ClientAccount our bank forgives most fees and BIG paysthe few that remain. Survivors who use the servicepay nothing.

3.Money Management: Survivors who are workingwith their case manager on a money managementplan (& those who have progressed beyond this)have access to BIGs Client Account. The survivordeposits cash or government cheque & receivestheir money back in the form of cheques which they

cash at our bank, at no charge of course. Most folkstake a larger sum once a month and then a weeklypayment. Many begin to accrue a few dollars assavings for emergencies or treats.

In the past few months Ive borrowed money tobuy formula and diapers for my 9 month old son.Now Ive learned how to manage my money &stock up and prepare for him all the time. Its stilltough but I dont know how I could have managedwithout the loan fund in those first months.

The BIG bank helped me to learn how to save money. I

would spend it if I didnt have the BIG Bank. Id cheat onmyself. Now Ive saved money and can go on a trip for

my birthday

Prince George Brain Injured GroupTHE BIG BANK

4.Bill paying: Few suppliers accept cash pay-ments on bills anymore. Your cablevision or hydrobill must be paid by cheque or Visa pretty tough ifyou dont have a chequing account or a credit card.BIG survivors who participate as regular depositorsto the Client Account have access to Client account

In 2011 survivors deposited and withdrew more than$70,000 through our Client Account! We spend agood deal of staff time managing the account butstaff and survivors alike (including those who dontuse the account!) believe that this is one of the mostimportant services we provide.

Rehabilitation and the rebuilding of a life after braininjury is as much about regaining control of the or-dinary things in life as it is about understanding thenew me and developing memory aids!


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headline 23

Abbotsford Carol Paetkau 604-557-1913 TF 1-866-557-1913

Acquired Brain Injury Society of the Yukon Anne-Marie Yahn 867-668-5283

Alberni Valley Head Injury Society/Port Alberni Linda Kenny 250-724-6772

Barriere/Merritt Terry-Lynne Stone 250-372-1799

British Columbia Brain Injury Association Deborah St. Jean 604-465-1783

Brain Trust Canada Laurie Denton 250-762-3233

Brain Trust Canada - Vernon Contact Marcie McLeod 250-307-6064

Bulkley Valley Brain Injury Association Joan LeClair 250-877-7723

Burnaby Chinese Brain Injury Support Group Angela Kan 604-877-8606

Campbell River Head Injury Support Society Shelley Howard 250-287-4323

Caribou Brain Injury Society Stacy Turcotte 250-392-7772

Chilliwack FVBIA 604-557-1913 TF 1-866-557-1913

Comox Valley Head Injury Society Cathy Stotts 250-334-9225

East Kootenay Brain Injury Association Karen Stermer 250-417-6220

Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association Carol Paetkau 604-557-1913 TF 1-866-557-1913

Golden East Kootenay Brain Injury Association Debbie Gudjonson 250-344-5674

Kamloops Brain Injury Association Terry-Lynn Stone 250-372-1799

KBIA - Barriere/Merrit Contact Terry-Lynn Stone 250-372-1799

Langley/Aldergrove Brain Injury Support Group FVBIA 604-557-1913 TF 1-866-557-1913

Maple Ridge Support Group Ian Moore 604-944-9030

Mission FVBIA 604-557-1913 TF 1-866-557-1913

Nanaimo Brain Injury Society Mark Busby 250-753-5600

New Westminster Headway Gabrielle Pape 604.520.0130

B.R.A.I.N. (Brain Resource, Advocacy & Information Network) Tina Suter 604-540-9234

North Okanagan Shuswap Brain Injury Society (Salmon Arm/Shuswap) Robyn Coatta 250-833-1140

Northern Brain Injury Association Carmen Jose 1-866-979-4673

Peace Country Society for Acquired Brain Injury Linda Proctor 250-782-7519

Powell River Brain Injury Society Deborah Dee 1-866-499-6065

Prince George Brain Injured Group Society Alison Hagreen 250-564-2447 TF 1-866-564-2447

Sechelt/Sunshine Coast Brain Injury Support Group Susan Goddard 604-885-8524

Semiahmoo House Society Acquired Brain Injury Services Office 604-592-1006 Local 230

South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society Dave Head 250-490-0613

Terrace Brain Injury Support Group NBIA 1-866-979-4673

TriCities Support Group Sandy Caverly 604-916-5027

Vancouver Headway Leah Pentilla 604.732.4446

Vancouver Survivors Support Group Lillian Wong 604-873-2385

Victoria Brain Injury Society Helen Lang 250-598-9339

West Coast Support Network Wanda McAvoy 250-726-7459

West Kootenay Brain Injury Association Kelly Johnson 250-304-1259

*Please email name and phone number changes to [email protected] to ensure this list is kept as up-to-date as possible.

BC BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATIONS &*This list updated Winter Issue, 2012. SupportGroups


24/24

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RETURN UNDELIVERABLE

CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO

5851 Kittiwake Drive

Richmond, BC V7E 3P1

Home.An experiencedbrain injury lawyercan make it happen.

Winning complex brain injury

cases for more than 30 years,

Webster & Associates is a leader

in the eld of traumatic brain injury

law. We help our clients and theirfamilies reach their personal and

nancial goals.

Call us. We can help.

Webster & Associates

Vancouver/Richmond: 604 713 8030

Victoria: 250 589 8030

Toll Free: 1 877 873 0699

email: [email protected]

BRAININJURYLAW. CA

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