We've been with Heads Together since Chelsea was 6 and she's now 18. Throughout the years it's been the one constant for us to be fully understood, get advice, rest, and a break. It's the only place Chelsea is fully accepted, and she doesn't have to try to be something more than herself, also it educates us on all things brain injury related so we can give her a better life. #Give5ToChangeLives #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
On the weekend, our Families Program had the world's shortest camp! We travelled through the Star Wars universe, making droids & getting to know the local aliens. Can't wait for next time! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
When I first had my brain injury, more than 20 years ago, my biggest challenge was feeling alone, but the Heads Together family camps gave me a sense of relief and understanding. Without Heads Together I would be a very misunderstood, lonely, and unheard woman. I have met so many beautiful people through this community and I feel like I'm home when I'm with these people who make me feel appreciated. Thats what the community of Heads Together does for me. I think people need to support Heads Together because I know that without it, I would be a very different person. The community of Heads Together lifts me up, congratulates me on my achievements, and helps me back up when I've been knocked down in life. I wouldn't be where I am, at university with a good job and a great support circle, without Heads Together. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #Give5ToChangeLives
We have kicked off our newest Heading Out event ... Tuesday Night Trivia! Running once a month, virtually for our Young Adults to catch up with each other and join in for some Trivia fun! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
To kick of the 5th May, we've got 5 ways to give to make sure Heads Together keeps changing lives. Give $'s via our website, every bit counts. Give us your change for good, register on MyCharityChange.com.au and download the app. Give time and volunteer. Give voice to lived experience - follow and share our posts. Give us a hand by hosting your own Give 5 event. Over the next month we will be sharing amazing stories of change and how you can join us to be part of that change. #give5tochangelives #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
The anniversary date of my son Miles’ brain injury is also the date when my whole family was involved in a car accident, and it’s always been a strange and mixed day for me. It happens to fall a few days before Christmas and for many years it did stir up a lot of difficult memories. But as part of the process of healing and coping with what happened, a psychologist recommended that maybe we were best to acknowledge the day and look at how far we have come since it happened. Something about this concept really resonated with me, viewing what happened with a more positive spin on it. So as a family, especially for the first few years, we really took the time to “celebrate” the day and reflect on our journey since the previous year. We even went back to the site of the accident in the early years and my husband, and I answered honestly and openly any questions that the kids had about it. It was challenging but very beneficial to open the dialogue about it. Last year was the 10 year anniversary of the accident, and interestingly it was a year where our whole family collectively felt less of a pull to acknowledge or reflect because there has been so much change and closure in recent years. It's not to say that any of us have forgotten (that will never happen) or that I’m any less grateful for where we are or what we’ve achieved. I guess it just feels like a more natural shift in how well we are doing and that we are more focused on looking forward to what’s next in our lives. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
To me, the anniversary of the car accident in 2013 is a time to reflect on how far I’ve come since I got my brain injury. I think this was an extremely important thing to do and was a really effective way to boost my motivation. We used to celebrate it every year by visiting the exact place it happened and talking about what we accomplished in the time after the accident. This was a really good thing to do, and I’m glad that as a family we did it. I would think about all of the things I originally couldn’t do right after I got my ABI (Acquired Brain Injury) that I learnt to do. I would mentally praise myself and think about how much more flexible my mind was becoming. However, now I think that I should move past that phase. This is because I feel like I’ve advanced to the point that I should put the past behind me. Sometimes I want to think about it, but I don’t feel like I need to anymore. I’ve learned from both the times I used to follow this tradition and from me reaching my next milestone. I appreciate my growth and all of those who help me, and I now feel the freedom to choose new paths for myself. Not following this tradition anymore gives me a feeling of more freedom. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Our team warmly invites educators and allied health staff to register and /or share this Professional Learning Development opportunity with staff supporting students with Brain Injury in your networks. Monash Children's Hospital, The Victorian Paediatric Rehabilitation Service and Heads Together are very pleased to present their combined education session for teachers and educators of our patients with brain injury. The program for 2024 will include one ONLINE session on Tuesday 14th May from 9am- 2:45pm AEST. If you missed any sessions in previous years, please feel free to sign up this year for the day program. Please find attached the registration form for the 2024 Educator Day Program as well as information about our speakers. Click on the link below to register: https://monashhealth.webex.com/weblink/register/r96da53b9be4d973fddc347a3e95f8858 We look forward to seeing you on the 14th May 2024. The ABI Teaching Series team #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
It's worth checking if you are eligible as it allows you to travel for free on metropolitan trains, trams and buses, V/Line trains and coaches, regional town buses. Pictured is one of our community members Miles who uses the access travel pass to get around independently! Have a chat to your allied health professional or head over to ptv.vic.gov.au and search access travel pass to find out more!! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
I don't specifically celebrate my brain injury anniversary day, because to be honest, I look at every day as a huge accomplishment. Everyday gives me the chance to look back and see how far I’ve come and reflect on the fact that each day is special to me after having my stroke because I learnt how precious life is. I take every opportunity to reflect on how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown as a person in my maturity and responsibility towards life. Never taking for granted being told by a family member how proud of me they are. It’s moments like these that I find heart-warming. My anniversary was more than 30 years ago, when I was just 2 years old, so I don't really think of the anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate accomplishments because I do that every day. I choose to surround myself with people that I see as being important to me, regardless of the date. Close friends and family who I know I can talk to or sit with whenever I want, and they will understand. One positive lesson that I've learnt from living with a brain injury would be to take every day as a challenge and to acknowledge the fact that it’s worth pushing myself to get to where I need to be and to not give up until I have reached that goal. I push myself to this point because I love the sense of accomplishment and pride that I get from achieving goals. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Hangin' at the MUPPITS Volunteer Expo Last night our Founder, Kate Heine, and Families/Teens Program Coordinator, Issy Penny attended the Monash University Paediatric Promotion, Training and Interest Society, otherwise known as MUPPITS. We presented to over a 100 medical students and had a great time talking about why they should all volunteer at Heads Together!! We're so grateful to Monash Uni for giving us the opportunity to recruit some future Dr's and raise awareness of childhood brain injury! @monashpaedsoc #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Officer Nick Wilt is not just our honorary chair; he's a beacon of hope and a fierce advocate for brain injury awareness. Through his story, we're reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the critical importance of our cause. @lmpd.ky ⠀ Join Officer Wilt and the BIAK community as we strive for a future where every brain injury is met with unwavering support and understanding. 💬❤️ ⠀ Let's ride, walk, and roll for brain health. Sign up today! 🔗 p2p.onecause.com/biak24 📞 502-493-0609 ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ #officerwilt #braininjuryadvocacy #beaconofhope #biak2024 #standwithsurvivors #resilience #humanspirit #communitysupport #brainhealthawareness #jointhefight #leadwithhope #survivoradvocacy #togetherwecan #inspirechange #raiseawareness #supportthecause #advocateforhealth #unityinaction #storiesofhope #strengthinstories #awarenesscampaign #championforchange #voiceforthevoiceless #togetherstronger #marchingforward
Officer Nick Wilt is not just our honorary chair; he's a beacon of hope and a fierce advocate for brain injury awareness. Through his story, we're reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the critical importance of our cause. @lmpd.ky ⠀ Join Officer Wilt and the BIAK community as we strive for a future where every brain injury is met with unwavering support and understanding. 💬❤️ ⠀ Let's ride, walk, and roll for brain health. Sign up today! 🔗 p2p.onecause.com/biak24 📞 502-493-0609 ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ #officerwilt #braininjuryadvocacy #beaconofhope #biak2024 #standwithsurvivors #resilience #humanspirit #communitysupport #brainhealthawareness #jointhefight #leadwithhope #survivoradvocacy #togetherwecan #inspirechange #raiseawareness #supportthecause #advocateforhealth #unityinaction #storiesofhope #strengthinstories #awarenesscampaign #championforchange #voiceforthevoiceless #togetherstronger #marchingforward
It took me decades to learn that I am not just a person with a disability, I’m a survivor. I have always felt the burden of blame, even though my accident was out of my control, but I’m also very proud of everything I’ve accomplished since. I have chosen to live my life moving forward, with the attitude of “I’ve made it this far, what can stop me now”. It’s been 21 years now, so when the anniversary of my accident comes around, I only tell a few people who are very close to me. Personally though, I do take the opportunity to reflect on my life positively and take pride in how far I have come. I know now that there are things I will not regain from before my accident, or goals that are no longer possible to achieve. It is my job to be aware of these things, so I can remain focused on what I am striving towards now instead of dwelling on what could have been. I see it not as a negative but as a challenge for tomorrow. I have recognized that the anniversary is not a mark of what happened but a mark of how far I have come! I recognize my need to try harder in things that are challenging for me, not to say that I can't, but as something to work for. I am achieving, I am content and happy, I am a survivor. I hope I can inspire others. I’m so grateful to have recovered to this point where I can now reflect. I have regained use of my left side, sight, hearing and ability to imagine. I look on my life with positivity and reflect on what I can do instead of what I can't. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
For the longest time, I didn't really know how to feel about this day, because to be honest with you I didn't really know who or what I identified as, what kind of relationship I had with who I was pre brain injury or any real concrete answers as to why it happened. Quite a confusing time for me a few years. Filled with conflicting feelings and emotions. and i really on started to use this day as a point or reference for this changing point in my life when I became old enough to understand the concept of what an anniversary represented. Now i know who I am as a person an individual and as a young adult living with a brain injury. i know that my brain injury is only one aspect of the many facets that make up me. I don't look at this day with the level of dread that I once did. I kind of look at it like a day of reflection. Almost like a second birthday. Reflecting on what I have achieved and overcome what I want to work towards. It's also a time to give a nod to the Hailey that was. And all the ways in which I believe that I would have made her proud. It is also a time when I practice a bit more self-care and give myself more time a space to feel the things that i need to feel and to recover from this. i seek to surrounding myself with positive people that i know will understand or offer support and comfort. i tend to become a bit more selfish in making myself a priority at this time and making sure that i am mentally okay as this day can bring up a lot of feelings for me. One really important lesions i have learnt over the years is that it is really hard help anyone else if you are not in a good place yourself. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
This week our Founder, Kate and our Young Adults Dynamic Duo, Kayla and Hailey met with the Information, Linkages and Capacity Building Community Grants Team. They have been our key funding partners for young adults since 2019 and as our 4year project comes to a close we took the opportunity to share some of the amazing outcomes that we've achieved over that time. Over the next week, we will share some of those key achievements as well as Hailey's amazing Leadership Journey which she presented to the team. After 4years, one of the most important learnings is just how huge the need is for specialist, peer driven support for young adults with brain injuries. Did you know that of the 432,649 active NDIS participants, only 3.2% have acquired brain injuries, and of that 3.2% only 11% are under the age of 25. That's only 1523 people despite the fact that over 700,000 Australians have brain injuries with two thirds acquiring the injury by age 25! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
My Brain Injury Anniversary - For so many people with acquired brain injuries, the idea of a birthday or anniversary can have a very different meaning because one of the things that's unique about this complex condition is that there is life before and after. For some this is a specific day, for others it might be a specific milestone, and depending on the age of the young person it might be more of an anniversary for the family than the young person. So this month, we are asking our community to share their perspective on brain injury anniversaries and how they mark these milestones, because just like brain injury, there is no one way of doing things. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
As Brain Injury Awareness Month draws to a close, it’s crucial to recognize that brain injuries go beyond their acute impact; brain injury is a public health issue with broad societal impacts and implications. Comprehensive care for brain injury survivors has positive long-term effects for both brain injury survivors and for society as a whole. While Brain Injury Awareness Month is a vital platform to raise awareness about brain injury, brain injuries affect survivors and their loved ones year-round. Continued support, advocacy, and care for brain injury is crucial for improving outcomes. The Brain Injury Association of America offers valuable resources for survivors and caregivers that can be accessed at any point. Furthermore, we encourage you to stay involved by joining a brain injury support community, sharing your story, or in another way that is meaningful to you. Thank you for your support of brain injury survivors, this month and beyond❤️ #tbi #abi #braininjuryawareness #braininjuryawarenessmonth #braininjury #stroke #braininjurysupport #strokesurvivor #aneurysmsurvivor #concussionawareness #concussiontreatment #braininjurywarrior #braininjuryadvocacy #disabilityawareness #invisibleinjury
Our office will be closed over the public holiday period. Please have a lovely break, and if you are travelling, please stay safe. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, dedicated to educating the public about the spectrum of TBIs, how they can be prevented, and the impact brain injuries have on those living with them and their families. On this #ThrowbackThursday, we’re sharing Spencer Lucas’s Advocate article on traumatic brain injuries from 2013. Spencer asserts that there’s no such thing as a “mild” traumatic brain injury and highlights some of the critical science used in evaluating brain injuries and the evidence you need at trial to demonstrate their impact on a client’s life. Read the full article at the link in our bio. . . . . #BrainInjuryAwarenessMonth #TBIAwareness #NoMildTBI #TraumaticBrainInjury #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #PublicEducation #TBIPrevention #BrainHealth #Neuroscience #LegalExpertise #TrialEvidence #ImpactOnLives #FamilySupport #HealthAwareness #PSRLaw #SpencerLucas #AdvocateForHealth #JusticeForInjured #LegalInsights #InjuryLaw #BrainInjuryRecovery #AwarenessCampaign #ThrowbackThursday #ReadMore #LinkInBio #EducateAndEmpower #SupportSurvivors
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 11, 2024, as BIAK hosts the annual Run, Walk, & Roll for brain health!📅 ⠀ This day is not just about raising awareness; it's about community, strength, and support for those affected by brain injuries and tumors. With every step, we come closer to understanding, prevention, and care. Whether you're a survivor, a loved one, or a supporter, your presence makes a difference.🌟 ⠀ Let's stride together towards a future where every brain is protected and cherished. Sign up now!⤵️ 🔗 p2p.onecause.com/biak24 📞 502-493-0609 ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ #brainhealth #braininjuryawareness #runwalkroll #biak2024 #healingjourney #communitysupport #braintumorsupport #survivorstrength #hopeandhealing #braininjuryprevention #kentuckyevents #brainawareness #supportnetwork #braininjuryrecovery #neurowellness #mentalhealthmatters #healthandsafety #awarenesscampaign #jointhemovement #braininjuryadvocacy #nonprofitevent #protectyourbrain #togetherwecan
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 11, 2024, as BIAK hosts the annual Run, Walk, & Roll for brain health!📅 ⠀ This day is not just about raising awareness; it's about community, strength, and support for those affected by brain injuries and tumors. With every step, we come closer to understanding, prevention, and care. Whether you're a survivor, a loved one, or a supporter, your presence makes a difference.🌟 ⠀ Let's stride together towards a future where every brain is protected and cherished. Sign up now!⤵️ 🔗 p2p.onecause.com/biak24 📞 502-493-0609 ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ #brainhealth #braininjuryawareness #runwalkroll #biak2024 #healingjourney #communitysupport #braintumorsupport #survivorstrength #hopeandhealing #braininjuryprevention #kentuckyevents #brainawareness #supportnetwork #braininjuryrecovery #neurowellness #mentalhealthmatters #healthandsafety #awarenesscampaign #jointhemovement #braininjuryadvocacy #nonprofitevent #protectyourbrain #togetherwecan
We’re so excited to be partnering with VPRS (Victorian Paediatric Rehabilitation Service) and Monash Children’s Hospital School for the 3rd year running in the ABI Teacher Education series. After some great feedback last year, we have all agreed that we need more time to talk about brain injury, how it impacts young people in their education and how we can all support each other to create positive education experiences. This will be a one day workshop, and Heads Together is really proud to be bringing the Lived Experience perspective. So please Share the registration flier with anyone you think might be interested, they can register via the QR code. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Thanks for following our Brain Injury Myth Buster series this week, we hope its opened some eyes and minds as to the impact that common misconceptions can have on the young people living with brain injury. We often discuss in our community that one of the biggest barriers to building a life of meaning, fun, connection and equity is our society as a whole. The frustration, shame and anxiety that young people experience on a daily basis as they navigate the world and the people in it is often like a heavy backpack that just slows you down and makes everything feel harder. We all have a brain, and I guarantee that no two function the same way, so lets not make assumptions based on what we see, or don't see. Instead, lets follow the wise advice of Audrey who shared yesterday, and ask more questions. Respectfully, curiously and kindly because brain injury can happen to anyone of us, anytime. The more we understand, the more we make the world a better place for everyone, no matter what life brings. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #BAW24
The myth I will be untangling is that if you can walk and talk like everyone else you must not have a brain injury? This misconception was made clear to me when I was reading my English speech, and one of my schoolteachers said that you only find brain injuries in people that are injured in sports like football. I explained to my teacher that if she had asked more questions about the topic, she might have a better understanding that a variety of people can have brain injuries in a variety of ways, and that my brain injury actually came from a tumour. The invisibility of some brain injuries means that we often excuse ignorance. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #BAW24
The myth that I’m tackling today is that “people with brain injuries and disabilities can't live independently and need help with every aspect of life.” I think most people have the misconception that because of my disability, I’m not independent and that I need constant care. I think that this misconception is important to bust, as I found growing up that it really put doubt in my mind. It put me off goals that I was trying to reach and made me question everything that I was trying to achieve. Even though I don’t let this affect me today, it made me think that I can't do things and question if I should even try. This is not something that I want anyone else to have to experience. I think that if the general public understood that people with disabilities can live independently, in whatever way works for them, that it would make people living with a brain injury or other disability feel more comfortable. It would make daily life so much easier and less exhausting, not having to repeat yourself constantly when out in the community. I think it would make me feel like I didn’t always need to prove myself and would help with my anxiety when I’m out in the community. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #BAW24
The misconception that I’m busting today is that my initial diagnosis is not the be all and end all, as mine was extremely negative. My family and friends were told by the doctors and physios that I would never walk again, would be incontinent for life and likely require care in a home or facility for the rest of my life. This was debilitating, depressing, and soul-crushing but thankfully, wrong. I am now qualified as a Chartered Accountant and working full-time hours four days a week with a state government department. Doctors are not always right; you can achieve amazing things and must keep fighting for it! I think If it was more widely understood that the outcomes of brain injury can be very different from the initial predictions, it would be an enormous relief. Suffering blindness on my left side as well as having memory issues means I occasionally bump into people or must backtrack at the supermarket. Occasionally I receive rude comments from other shoppers who can’t fathom why I’m returning to the deli for example or having to tick off a shopping list as I move through the store. Initially, I avoided shopping for the next month or so due to self-consciousness. Empathy and understanding are in short supply in our world today and this is a real problem. We are all doing our best to live our lives, appreciate the difficulties others may face and be kind and empathetic to all. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #BAW24
The myth that I’m busting today is really more of a misconception, it’s that people think I’m less capable than I am!! and think I'm a different person because of my stroke. This affects me because people are less inclined to socialize with me due to their preconceived ideas of what I'm capable of, or what kind of person I am. I find it really annoying that people just jump in and help me because of what they think I'm capable of. It really works against me and my current goal of being independent. It's hard to do this when everyone jumps in and doesn't respect what I'm trying to achieve. I think all misconceptions about brain injury are important to debunk but I find this one Super annoying and unfair that I get treated differently before people get to know me and make assumptions based on face value. If this misconception was properly understood I think I would be able to achieve my goal of becoming independent much easier. I would get treated fairly instead of having people treat me like a stroke survivor all the time. I think it would be nice to be viewed as a friend and not have people treat me like a flower or feel like everyone's walking on glass around me. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #BAW24
What better way to celebrate Brain Awareness Week than busting some common myths and misconceptions about brain injury that our community face on a daily basis. Understanding is respect, respect is equality, equality is opportunity, so spread the word and share these myth busters with all of your followers over the next few days #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #BAW24
Legal jargon can confuse even the best of us. Imagine grappling with it while recovering from a brain injury. Understand how a professional brain injury lawyer can lift some of that weight in our latest blog👇 ➡️ https://braininjuryhelpcenter.org/brain-injury-after-an-accident-why-legal-help-matters/ (Link in bio) We're here to fight for you, not just answer questions. Get a FREE consultation: ☎️ (866) 576-0936 #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #BrainInjury #FightForJustice #TBISurvivor #BrainInjurySupport #RecoveryJourney
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. Let's raise awareness and support one another. #togetherstronger #biamonth #braininjuryawareness #marchingforbrains #invisiblestruggles #biawarenessmonth #braininjurysupport #mindmatters #breakthestigma #healingbrains #empowersurvivors #braininjuryadvocacy #meditalksummit2022
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. Let's raise awareness and support one another. 💙🤝 #TogetherStronger #BIAmonth #BrainInjuryAwareness #MarchingForBrains #InvisibleStruggles #BIAwarenessMonth #BrainInjurySupport #MindMatters #BreakTheStigma #HealingBrains #EmpowerSurvivors #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #meditalksummit2022
Inclusion is not something you think much about until you’re excluded. Over the past decade, advocating (sometimes stamping my feet) for my son's inclusion following his brain injury has been a constant endeavour. Thankfully, my incredible team of female colleagues at Heads Together has stood by me, sharing their expertise, cheering me on and often stamping their feet in support when needed. Regardless of life's challenges or personal struggles, our team embraces individuals for who they are, flaws and all – all the time. It’s just something we do. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #inspireinclusion
I am one of the lucky few in the world who “LOVES” my job and workplace. That’s because at Heads Together, we actually live and breathe by our values. Flexibility is key to inclusion in my book. And at work, the whole team is so accepting of my flexibilities, especially when it comes to working around family commitments. This team knows better than most the juggle of all the appointments and commitments required for a parent or carer of a child with a brain injury. They are generous and understanding of the mental load I carry. I feel blessed to be included, in every sense, by this team. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #inspireinclusion
On Wednesday, 3/6/24, BIA-MA NeuroResource Facilitators, Krishna Morrow and Amanda Manley represented the brain injury community at the Chelmsford High School Wellness Fair. This event had over 1,000 students (grades 9-12) and staff in attendance! #braininjuryawarenessmonth #braininjuryawareness #mybraininjuryjourney #braininjuryadvocacy
What an amazing week we have had in Washington DC, and a triumphant Brain Injury Awareness Day on Capitol Hill. #braininjuryawarenessmonth #mybraininjuryjourney #braininjuryadvocacy
#ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #inspireinclusion
When I joined Heads Together, over 2 years ago now, it was the first time I experienced inclusion as something that is embedded in every part of our daily operations and interactions. It's not strategies that are 'done' to or for people or to support their work, it's how we work. My great hope is that we can work with other organisations to support them to build this in their own environments and lives so it becomes the norm and not something unique or special as it is right now. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #inspireinclusion
PA representing at Capitol Hill!💙🧠🇺🇸 This is some of our group who have made the trip to Washington D.C. to advocate for brain injury! Today was day one with @bia_usa as we prepare for advocacy, and tomorrow we will be going for meetings with members of Senate and Congress to lobby for very important legislation that affects brain injury survivors, including reauthorization and funding for the TBI Act & supporting TBI Model Systems funding. It has also been amazing to connect with people from across the USA who are here for a common cause! So thankful for these advocates and we are looking forward to going up to the Hill tomorrow! #BIAPA #BIAPAstrong #braininjuryawareness #braininjuryadvocacy
BIASC joins the Brain Injury Association of America, NASHIA, USBIA and other members of the brain injury community for Brain Injury Awareness Day on March 5-6, 2024 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC to help win reauthorization for the Traumatic Brain Injury Act. #TraumaticBrainInjuryAct #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #BrainInjuryAwareness #BrainInjuryAwarenessMonth Image Description: text from the body of this post with a blue illustrated graphic of the Capitol Building in Washington DC. BIASC logo is at the bottom right. @bia_usa
𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 Brain injuries manifest in diverse forms, each characterized by unique causes, symptoms, and repercussions. 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗖 𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗡 𝗜𝗡𝗝𝗨𝗥𝗬 (TBI), typically stemming from external forces like accidents or sports mishaps, spans a spectrum from mild concussions to severe cases with lasting consequences. 🧠 Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) results from internal factors such as strokes, tumors, or infections. Strokes, triggered by disrupted blood flow, induce oxygen deprivation and cellular damage. Brain tumors, whether benign or malignant, impede normal function by compressing surrounding tissues. Infections like meningitis or encephalitis contribute to inflammation and subsequent damage. 🧠 Anoxic brain injury occurs when the brain is devoid of oxygen, causing cell death, often linked to drowning, suffocation, or cardiac arrest. Hypoxic brain injury is a less severe variant involving reduced, though not entirely cut off, oxygen supply. 🧠 Penetrating brain injuries involve foreign objects entering the brain, typically associated with incidents like gunshot wounds or exposure to sharp objects. These injuries have varying consequences and levels of severity, impacting cognitive function, motor skills, and emotional well-being. Effective rehabilitation and timely medical intervention are crucial in mitigating the aftermath of brain injuries, emphasizing the significance of tailored care corresponding to the specific type and severity of the injury. ☎️ 305.937.0191 🌐 www.shakedlaw.com #TraumaticBrainInjury #TBIawareness #BrainInjurySupport #HeadInjuryRecovery #BrainInjurySurvivor #PersonalInjuryLawyer #LegalHelp #InjuryClaims #CompensationRights #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #LawAndHealth #LegalGuidance #HeadTraumaJustice #KnowYourRights #InjuryLawExperts
We're so excited to see everyone on March 14th for #pierallyadvocacyday at the Kansas Capitol Rotunda! Come say hi to us, @biaksgkc, your local legislators, and many more as we advocate for brain injury services! And eat some yummy pie 🥧. Register for this FREE event at: https://biaks.org/brain-injury-association-events/topeka-day-on-the-hill/ #mybraininjuryjourney #braininjury #advocacy #braininjuryadvocacy #braininjuryservices #kansas #kansascapitol #topeka #piday #advocacyrally #mindsmatterllc #communitymatters
Tom Fatigue is annoying and can make life hard at times. Especially when I go out with friends and family, it can be very difficult to keep track of what’s going on when I’m fatigued. I have learnt to be ok with taking a break when I need it. My friends and family know when I’m fatigued and understand if I start repeating myself or asking a question more than once but at the end of the day if that’s the worst thing I do, I’m doing ok. When I have fatigue it feels like a bad hangover where I just can’t focus and everything takes way longer. The thing you have to remember is always keep going and be happy with yourself and live for you. Take breaks if you need it and be kind to yourself. Life’s not a race and we all get there in the end Gayle Fatigue has been one of the things Tom has really had to learn to deal with over the years. In the early days after Tom’s accident his fatigue lasted most of the day, so he had to really push through a lot of the time. The doctors explained that he might have 5 good minutes a day, so we made the most of those 5 minutes! Slowly he became less confused and fatigued. As a Mum, I would always try to plan Toms’ days, so he had enough down time in between things he had to do. Tom has never been able to sleep during the day, so finds it best to watch tv and in particular a show he knows (Simpsons!) so he doesn’t have to concentrate. When Tom is extremely fatigued he just seems to shut down and his vision is way worse, so taking a break is very important. Tom’s attitude is so positive about all his challenges, we think he’s pretty bloody amazing! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Brain Injury Awareness Month starts TODAY, March 1, 2024! We have a lot of really great, informative, and empowering events lined up for brain injury survivors, caregivers, professionals, and advocates. We hope you can join us for some of our upcoming events; especially our Walk, Run, and Roll for Brain Injury Awareness! Check out the calendar of events on our website home page www.biaofsc.com Image Description: blue background that says March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. There are black outlined butterflies all around the page, with a large colorful butterfly in the center of the page. The BIASC logo is in the bottom left corner. Text in the bottom right corner says "check our website for a calendar of March events". #BrainInjuryAwareness #BrainInjuryAwarenessMonth #BrainInjury #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #ButterflyProject #Metamorphosis #SouthCarolina
Together we advocate! Kicking off Brain Injury Awareness Month with photos from last month's Brain Injury Advocacy Day at the capital. Several On With Life persons served and staff members attended, and a few persons served even had the opportunity to share their stories with their local representatives! . . . . #togetherweadvocate #braininjury #braininjuryadvocacy #braininjuryawareness #braininjuryawarenessmonth #hillday #neurorehabilitation #onwithlife #raisethebar #weempowerhope #leadwiththeheart
Brain Injury Awareness Month starts TOMORROW, March 1, 2024! We have a lot of really great, informative, and empowering events lined up for brain injury survivors, caregivers, professionals, and advocates. We hope you can join us for some of our upcoming events; especially our Walk, Run, and Roll for Brain Injury Awareness! Check out the calendar of events on our website home page www.biaofsc.com Image Description: blue background that says March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. There are black outlined butterflies all around the page, with a large colorful butterfly in the center of the page. The BIASC logo is in the bottom left corner. Text in the bottom right corner says "check our website for a calendar of March events". #BrainInjuryAwareness #BrainInjuryAwarenessMonth #BrainInjury #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #ButterflyProject #Metamorphosis #SouthCarolina
Heads Together Joins the Stroke Foundation Podsquad! HT Founder, Kate Heine and Lived Experience Consultant, Hailey Barber joined the Childhood Stroke Podcast series talking about inclusive education. Check out the podcast Childhood Stroke Podcast https://enableme.org.au/community/podcasts/childhood-stroke-podcast-series, and support and share with people in your lives, help us push the inclusive education snowball!! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
When wrapping up 2023, we asked the Young Adults who participate in our Heading Out program what the Heading Out team means to them in one word. We received some fantastic responses, including friendship, independence and connection. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Yesterday was the final presentation from our Grant Thornton Student Projects and they delivered some incredible projects in the areas of fundraising, sporting partnerships to support players with post concussion syndrome, as well as inclusive workplace training. After 10 weeks and almost 50 students, we are truly blown away by what these young people have provided, and have no doubt that as we begin implementing these new strategies that the impact will be felt by our entire community for many years to come. We cannot thank our partners Grant Thornton enough for giving us this game changing opportunity to focus so many passionate young minds on developing the future of Heads Together. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether #GrantThornton
Brain injuries can vary widely in severity and type, ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The treatment for brain injuries depends on the specific nature and extent of the injury, but generally involves a combination of medical interventions, rehabilitation, and supportive care. The treatment of brain injuries requires a multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, neurosurgeons, rehabilitation specialists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals working together to optimize outcomes and improve quality of life for patients affected by brain injury. Call/WhatsApp: 96521 36131 #BrainInjury #TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) #Concussion #BrainInjuryAwareness #BrainInjuryRecovery #ABI (Acquired Brain Injury) #BrainInjurySurvivor #BrainInjurySupport #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #BrainInjuryAwarenessMonth
Wow! Brain Injury Advocacy Day at the Massachusetts State House was fantastic!! » The Great Hall was filled with so many wonderful people, all there to advocate for brain injury supports and services. » In addition, I had the pleasure of meeting with the offices of Senator Rebecca Rausch and Representative Jeffrey Roy, to share my story, experience, insight while educating about and advocating for: - The Cognitive Rehabilitation Bill - The Acquired Brain Injury Advisory Board Bill - SHIP (Statewide Head Injury Program) Funding » Moments like this help remind us that indeed, your voice matters!! » This whole day was organized and run by @braininjuryma - well done!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Thank you for all your hard work every day, in addition to everything you did to make today happen! . ID: Various photos of Ali at the Massachusetts state House with various other people. Refer to alt text for individual slide context. . Hashtags: #braininjury #braininjurysurvivor #braininjuryadvocacy #braininjuryawareness #morethanmybraininjury #advocacy #disability #statehouse #massachusetts #massachusettsstatehouse #legislation #bills #cognitiverehab #advisoryboard #concussion #tbi #abi #stroke #encephilitis #braincancer #disabilityadvocacy #advocate #traumaticbraininjury #postconcussion #yourvoicematters #persistantpostconcussionsymptomps
The HT Team talking Brain Friendly Workplaces - For our first team meeting of 2024 we all joined heads to discuss what makes a brain friendly workplace, and more importantly, how can we raise awareness for employers everywhere to create more accessible and accommodating workplaces for people with brain injuries, or really any kind of brain differences. This year, we will be putting a stronger focus on spreading this knowledge, within our community and in the broader community. So stay tuned for all the hot tips, do's, dont's and everything in between as we take a deep dive into inclusive employment. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
As we kick off our 2024 Understanding Brain Injury series, we wanted to revisit the all important topic of fatigue. It’s one of the most common and impactful challenges that young people with brain injuries face, so we wanted to dive deeper into how our community manage their fatigue. In our last series we discussed how each person has a unique fatigue fingerprint, what fatigue looks and feels like. This month our amazing Lived Experience experts will talk about how they learned to manage fatigue and what “brain breaks” look like for them. We’re also asking some of the key people in their lives to share how they understand fatigue and what strategies they use to support. As always, thanks for listening and please share far and wide, understanding is key to creating a more inclusive world!! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Healer, not wheeler and dealer~ I am a human who dove into health care. My heart and passion is in supporting people be well. I am not into marketing or schemes. One of my FIRM ethical practices is that I will NEVER take a payment on initial call. I have a 3-day rule that is meant to process emotion, cognition and wise financial choices. The reality is that after sustaining brain injury can have an impact on the these things including impulsivity in decision making. Nothing shady here...just authentic passion for brain injury healing journeys~ #cognitivehealthcoach #braininjuryadvocacy #braininjuryawareness #traumaticbraininjury #aquiredbraininjury #persistentpostconcussion #postconcussion #youngstroke #healthcoach #instituteofintegrativenutrition #internationalhealthcoach #certfiedbraininjuryspecialist
ABILiTy post - ABILiTy kicked off 2024 with an awesome workshop last weekend. We caught up on everyone's summer and talked through our goals and plans for the year. Such an exciting year ahead for our team as they navigate new employment roles, study, moving out of home and lots more. Stay tuned for more inspo cos New Years resolutions come and go but ABILiTy is in it for the long haul!!! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Our next round of eager young minds from Grant Thorton kicked off their projects last week. The first group of students wrapped up late December, producing some fantastic results, so we can't wait to see what round 2 comes up with. They will be picking up the baton on last years projects, developing new and exciting fundraising ideas and strategies, and supporting development of our newest initiative, Learning from Lived Experience, which provides training and consultation to a range of organisations about building a more inclusive and equitable world for young people with brain injuries and their families. Thanks again to Grant Thorton for such an incredible opportunity to partner the business world and make a positive difference. Stay tuned for progress...... #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Finding myself after brain injury was a hard road but I am proud of the person I am today. If I could explain myself in a sentence, I’d say that I’m constantly pushing myself to be the best version I can be, always giving 110% to everything I do. Reflecting on this and the things that’ve made me who I am, I’m proud of my ever-giving attitude and my positive outlook towards everything I put my mind to. I found it really hard to adapt to life post brain injury, and my first go to response was to try and keep up with others. Living life with an ABI has its complications with everything I need to handle. I can only do so much before I need to take a break. I find this a bit stressful, but I approach this the way I do everything, with the same stubborn streak. I always used to refuse to ask for help or accept the fact that I just simply could not do things but now I know that I just have to go at my own pace to get things done. I strive towards bettering myself, so I really just want to be a better version of myself than I was yesterday. To fine tune living independently, working towards my goal of expanding my friendship circles and helping out others in the community. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Finally! Season Finale: Heads Together Impact, Episode 8: Partnerships & Giving Voice #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
We’re nearly there. Heads Together Impact, Episode 7: Project HOPE #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Episode 6: HT Teens #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Finding me after brain injury was a bit of a tricky thing, because I had my brain injury later on in my high school education. It made me feel quite self-conscious trying to relearn the things that I thought I had figured out, I felt self-conscious because all my peers appeared to be moving forward with their lives with a level of certainty that I was just not ready for at this stage in my recovery. Discussing things like university and plans after graduating high school while I was still trying to figure out the basics. I know my brain injury changed me on many levels. A lot of the attributes I hold as important today were attributes I acquired because of my experience with brain injury. My brain injury has taught me to be more open to people, to communicate better and has allowed me to understand others on a deeper level, to live in the moment, and to value people's attributes that are often shunned by the wider community. Because of these assets that my brain injury has taught me, I now make the most out of the situation that I am in. I have become really good at lifting up others that I support, offering guidance and assistance and an understanding person to talk through the challenges of education. Today I am a young man who is trying his hardest to do what I am capable of doing. To get the most out of life possible while trying to do the same for those I work with. I am working towards being someone that has their life well structured, a successful member of my workplace and society, and to become a loving husband someday soon. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Heads Together Impact, Episode 5: HT Parents #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
NOT A FAN...of this very common discharge phrase: "you'll be fine once you get home." We can do better! I appreciate the hope and kind intentions behind the phrase, yet it can set up a situation of internal questioning, slower to ask for help, and perpetuates the 'it's all in your head' medical mayhem after brain injury. Here is the reality behind that discharge phrase: -Yes, home is where we feel comfortable, there are established routines, familiar environment, etc. and things can progress with the beautiful transition. -Yet, home can also be where we expect that everything will go back to how it was before brain injury. That phrase at discharge can negatively impact asking for help. Here are better discharge phrase options: -Discharge after concussion: The significant majority of people recovery well after concussion, go slow and steady with movement and thinking. Sitting in a dark room and waiting to heal is bad advice. Please see this information about different concussions symptoms and see your doctor soon and stay in contact with them about your symptoms. -Discharge after stroke: Your brain has been through lot and requires your attention. The recovery and healing is primed at this time to do its best healing, so let’s get all the rehab on board. That being said, healing has no end date and you will continue to make progress as long as you prioritize it. SHARE THIS POST so we can get rid of the less than helpful discharge phrase and replace it with better options. COMMENT BELOW a discharge phrase you wish you heard. #cognitivehealthcoach #betterhealthcare #emergencyroomdischarge #braininjuryadvocacy #concussioneducation #peristentpostconcussionsymptoms #postconcussionsymptoms #stroke #strokesurvivor #youngstroke #lifeafterbraininjury #knowbetterdobetter #healthcarehero
Heads Together Impact, Episode 3: Cook. Chat. Eat. Young Adults #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
I had my brain injury as a young child, so my identity was entirely built around this experience. It wasn’t until early adulthood that I realised this and began taking steps to rebuild my identity. I stopped talking about myself as "having" a brain injury, but rather talked about the symptoms and side effects I live with to describe and relay my experience. I put more focus on believing in myself as my self-esteem was crushed by bullies during my school years. This led me to study nursing, my dream job. I surrounded myself with people who encouraged and supported me rather than people who doubted and belittled me. This made a huge difference to the person I am today. I’m proud of the fact that despite everything, I’ve persevered and pushed through the hard times, failures, and the doubts to get to where I am now. I couldn’t do this as a child, but as an adult, I have learned how. I’m really proud of the fact that I’m strong and have become stronger through the adversity. The things I’ve been through would’ve put alot of people on their backside, but I continue to grow and progress in life, and am reaping the rewards today. I’m a loving, caring, passionate and strong woman who loves their life and continues to excel in everything I do despite my own doubts. I’m trying to be someone who is gentle but strong, passionate yet kind, someone who’s getting better and better mentally and physically with every action and reaction I experience. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Heads Together Impact, Episode 2: Young Adults Heading Out #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Finding myself after brain injury was something that took time. As I grew older, I kind of had to grow and adapt to the changes that were presented to me at different stage, based on what was expected of my peer group developmentally. As I became more aware of who I was and what I could do, it became easier for me to adapt the way I approached these challenges. I was always trying to figure out where I slotted in, and in this new adult world, I soon figured out that I didn't fit in anywhere. I also figured out that I wasn't really being myself, I was just trying to fit in to a box. For those that understand growing up with a brain injury, you never really fit into a box, and I soon came to question why do I keep trying so hard. So, I had to do a lot of soul searching and had to acknowledge and accept what was, and ask myself the really big and hard questions like who do I want to be, how do I want people to look at me and what qualities and values do I stand for and want to embody. Most importantly what do I need to feel confident and comfortable within myself. And this is when I finally began to find the real me after brain injury. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
In honor of supporting @drbrookemills during the Miss America competition as she represents @missamericanh, we want to re-share her story of a concussion in her own words. This information was originally shared during Concussion Awareness Day on September 15, 2023. Read below: In March of 2014 I was kicked in the head 🧠💥 — all during a gym class playing team hand ball. I was knocked unconscious loosing over 5 years of memories, suffering from ongoing headaches, vertigo, nausea, mood swings and physical issues impacting any form of exercise. Now, almost 10 years later, I continue to advocate for this invisible injury because the narrative surrounding brain injuries and concussions MUST. CHANGE. Now I’m just here to tell you to take them seriously 😉 National Concussion Awareness Day website: https://nationalconcussionawarenessday.com Image Description: headshot of Brooke Mills, a young white woman with long brownish red hair. She is smiling at the camera while wearing her white coat from from Chiropractic school. She is standing outside and the background is blurred. #NationalConcussionAwarenessDay #ConcussiuonAwareness #BrainInjuryAwareness #BrainInjuryAdvocacy #ConcussionAdvocacy #MissAmerica #MissNewHampshire
Understanding who we are is at the core of growing up for all of us, it’s complicated, confusing and at times confronting, and the process is lifelong. For young people living with brain injury, this journey is a thousand times more complex, and is further challenged by the lack of understanding they face. This month's understanding brain injury series will focus on how some of the young adults in our community learned to navigate this process, and find their way to understanding themselves, and more importantly, valuing themselves and their lived experience. For our community at Heads Together, these young people are a beacon of hope for families, and much needed trailblazers for the hundreds of thousands of young Australians living with brain injury. So please share these posts to acknowledge their courage, and if you’re thinking about kicking off 2024 with a positive impact, please consider making a donation to our organisation, every dollar goes to directly supporting a family or young person to join our community, connect with peers and receive on average 100hours of free support. https://www.headstogether.org.au/donate/ #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
Get ready to binge watch... Heads Together Impact, Episode 1: Young Adults ABILiTy. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether
As we kick off the new year, we want to take a moment to reflect on our impact last year. We are so proud of our programs and what a positive difference they make to families, young adults, teens and kids. We’re just as proud of our big picture work advocating for change in health, research, education and government. 2024 is already shaping up to be a gamechanger for Heads Together, so stay tuned for more impact updates. Happy New Year!!! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforabi #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #20yearsHeadsTogether