In this issue >>>

Brain Matters Golf Tournament Christmas Celebration BCC In The Community Wishlist

Fall 2013 Issue 4

Knowing What We Do!

Addictions & Traumatic Brain Injury>>> pg. 6 Theres an APP for That!>>> pg. 5
By Carolyn Biron

Benefits of Exercise>>> pg. 10 BCC Calendar >>> pg. 12 & 13 Edson News>>> pg. 17 Golfing For A Worthy Cause >>> pg. 21 Advertise with us! >>> pg. 4 Acknowledgements>>>pg. 22

Brain Care held the belief

of brain injury prevention and has AA and AAA hockey to educate

Centre has long recently worked with youth in midget and passion that athletes, parents and coaches about public education concussion management. In 2012, this should be a key component amongst the wide range of services work saw 84 young athletes receive instruction and pre-season baseline cognitive testing such that players and

and supports offered. Public education coaches are prepared to manage a efforts include Brain Care Centres very concussion should it arise. Numerous popular Brain Basics workshop as well as tailored educational programming for businesses and local human and health service providers. It is this educational outreach that builds capacity in our communities and fosters understanding for individuals affected by brain injury. BCC also continues to work in the field research studies have documented that information and proper management of concussions at the time of injury can significantly reduce the risk of an individual experiencing prolonged symptoms. Such safe and effective management can also reduce the risk of the rare but very severe brain injury known as Second Impact Syndrome. Continued on Page... 16

Board of Directors>>>
President Past President Secretary Chief Financial Officer Treasurer Member at Large Member at Large Director Director Stephanie Boldt Lydia Kawun Tracy DesLaurier Kaitlin Cluff Ryan Barry Bruce Hirsche, Q.C. Quentin Ranson Nancy E. Cumming Frances Zinger

Brain Care Centre Staff Directory >>>

Executive Director Fund Development Director Operations Manager Office Coordinator Manager of Client Services & Contracts Service Coordiantor Intake Coordinator/ Service Coordinator Service Coordinator Service Coordinator Service Coordinator Occupational Therapist Lead Support Facilitator/Counsellor Support Facilitator/Counsellor Community Living Coordinator Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant Volunteer Coordinator Dr. Garnet Cummings Steve Boyd Louise Jensen Shamim Khanbhai Mike Ryan Nicole Savignac Madison Steele Heidi Mast Julie Hanson Mitchell Tokarek Stephanie Silva Teresa LaRocque-Walker Lisa Baranieski Jean Roy Larissa St.Arnaud Janine Tremblay Ext 30 Ext 15 Ext 12 Ext 10 Ext 24 Ext 16 Ext. 14 Ext 22 Ext 29 Ext 13 Ext 28 Ext 23 Ext 19 Ext 26 Ext 25 Ext 33 Ext 11
(780)712-3241 (780)712-9789

gcummings@braincarecentre.com steve@braincarecentre.com admin@braincarecentre.com Shamim@braincarecentre.com mike@braincarecentre.com nicole@braincarecentre.com madison@braincarecentre.com heidi@braincarecentre.com julie@braincarecentre.com mitchell@braincarecentre.com stephanie@braincarecentre.com teresa@braincarecentre.com lisa@braincarecentre.com jean@braincarecentre.com larissa@braincarecentre.com Janine@braincarecentre.com events@braincarecentre.com tannis@braincarecentre.com laura@braincarecentre.com

Community Engagement CoordinatorSignature Events Andrea Carroll Papirny Service/Support Coordinator. CAPCC - Edson Service Coordinator - Edson Tannis Arsenault Laura See

#229 Royal Alex Place

10106 111 Ave Edmonton AB T5G 0B4

Phone: 780-477-7575 Toll Free: 1-800-425-5552 Fax: 780-474-4415

Mailing address Box 30105 Edson, AB T7E 1Y2

Street address 524-50 Street Edson, AB

Phone: 780-712-7560 Toll free: 1-866-712-7560 Fax: 780-712-7567

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Message from BCCs Executive Director

It has been really busy at Brain Care Centre this summer. The Kick-off Breakfast and the Annual General Meeting were in June. Both were a huge success. This was followed by the inaugural Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament held at Lewis Estates Golf Course in Edmonton. I must congratulate the BCC staff and all the volunteers for their wonderful work on this new event. The field was sold out and it certainly was a fun event! Right after the golf tournament, BCC moved into Gala mode. The Defying Limitations Gala will be at the Ramada Edmonton Hotel and Conference Centre on November 9, 2013. The staff is working hard to acquire silent and live auction items as well as sell the event out. This years Gala will honor Stephen and Lynn Mandel as Honorary Patrons. BCC Board has hired Mr. Stephen Boyd as the Fund Development Director. Stephen has a wealth of knowledge in the fund development area having worked at the Royal Alexandra Foundation for about 13 years. Welcome aboard Steve! Finally, after the Gala, I will be completing a research paper on housing and acquired brain injury. This is follow up to a grant received from Homeward Trust. In closing, on behalf of the Brain Care Centre staff and the Board, I wish you a very merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

Dr. Garnet Cummings Executive Director

Brain Care Centre would like inform our public that our former domain abihelp.org has not been renewed by our society. It appears that another entity has registered the domain and its intent could be malicious. (BCCs anti-virus software identified it as a malicious website). All e-mails addressed to @abihelp.org will not be received by BCC, are not being returned as undeliverable to the sender and may be spammed. All e-mail to Brain Care Centre should be addressed to admin@braincarecentre.com or the appropriate staff member (see staff directory on page 3).

Advertising Space
Business Card 1/4 Page 1/3 Page Half Page Full Page (0.125) (0.25) (0.33) (0.5) (1)

Cost Per Issue

Cost Per Year (4 Issues)

Distribution of this publication is anticipated to be a minimum of 1100 copies per issue. The distribution area reaches from Edmonton and surrounding areas to Jasper and surrounding areas. Cognosco is not only printed, but is hosted on our website (www.braincarecentre.com) and posted on our social media sites.

$100 $200 $270 $400 $800

$300 $600 $810 $1,200 $2,400

Welcome! >>>
Steve Boyd
Steve joined the staff of the Brain Care Centre on October 1st as Director of Fund Development. He will work with Centre staff in expanding our fundraising activities to support and expand the Centres Programs to assist clients with acquired brain injury. Steve brings a long history of Larissa St. Arnaud, BPE fundraising and legal experience to the Heidi Mast, BA Centre. Most recently, he spent 13 Heidi joined the Brain Care Centre Larissa has been a part of the Brain years as Vice President of the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation and team in June 2013 as a Service Care Centre team as a Director Corporate Relations at the Coordinator and is an active Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant Stollery Childrens Hospital Foundation. member in the public education since April 2013. She has been Prior to that he spent 8 years at TELUS program. Her previous work with supporting our clients in the youth and knowledge of social Occupational Therapy and the doing legal and regulatory work. Steve services has certainly been an asset Assistive Device Training Programs, is married with three adult children and to our agency! as well as managing the sport has considerable family history with concussion public education. acquired brain injury.

There is an APP for That!!! >>>

By Jean Roy, Assistive Technology Coordinator

Journaling APPs

ICT Ad goes here!

Journaling is a great way to record our emotions, personal dreams, and desires. However, not all of us express ourselves through words! Thankfully in todays digital world we are given several other options to journal. Journaling apps allow us to express ourselves through audio notes, photos, characters and type. Journal apps can range from free to $9.99. To find the right journaling apps for you check out http://mac.appstorm.net.

Addiction and Traumatic Brain Injury >>>

By A.J. Wells, Online Volunteer Since addiction and substance abuse both have a psychological aspect, the relationship between brain injury and addiction have been studied in great detail. The results of these studies are complex and show that the relationship can work in both directions. However, the question of whether brain injury can cause addiction and substance abuse has not been answered; some evidence points in that direction, but it is not substantial enough to be certain. Results are inconclusive as to whether traumatic brain injury can cause addiction in patients who were previously not addicted. At the same time, it is very clear that addiction and substance abuse can cause brain injury, which is what most of the related studies focus on. Bijork and Grant and Jorge et al. in 1998 and 2005, as well as many others, have noted that the impaired judgement caused by substance abuse can lead to head injuries due to falls, vehicle crashes, or other accidents. Strangely enough, the nature of these studies make it difficult to decide if brain injury also causes addiction. Studies of brain injury effects on cognition screen out patients with substance abuse disorders, regardless of how the patients developed that disorder. This means that such a link cannot be studied. Some studies do suggest a causal link between brain injury and addiction with no prior substance abuse. A survey in 2004 by Fann et al. found that brain injury survivors with no evidence of substance abuse a year prior to their accident had a 4:5 odds ratio of substance abuse in the year following the injury. This dropped to a 1:4 ratio following two to three years post injury. Other studies, including Reynold's 2006 study, have shown that Those subjects who developed mood disorders following a traumatic brain injury were judged to have the most severe mental disturbances and the most difficulty returning to a normal life. These patients had problems with behavioral and emotional control, However, Rogers and Read asserted in social coordination, insight and 2007 that these correlations were not problem-solving. These issues may strong enough to support the idea that make one vulnerable to substance substance abuse was caused by brain abuse, but there may not be a direct injury. Instead, the substance abuse correlation between brain injury and was related to previous psychological substance abuse. After stating this, patterns found in the subjects and not Jorge et al. recommended that any to brain injury. therapeutic programs take into account these mental disturbances in At the same time, it is order to give patients the best chance very clear that addiction at life. and substance abuse can cause brain injury, which is That is indeed a good piece of advice. what most of the related In order to understand the studies focus on. psychological factors behind addiction, brain injuries might impair a patient's judgement, making it more difficult to picture the adverse consequences of drug use or to inhibit the need for the immediate gratification that drugs and alcohol could provide. doctors must consider all contributing factors. This will lead to better future Several studies of the links between care for those suffering from brain brain injury and addiction involve recent U.S. combat veterans. A 1992 Works Cited: study showed that two thousand of Please note, that some studies were cited from two million American soldiers had within these articles, and were not separate artibeen diagnosed with a traumatic brain cles themselves. injury. According to Ommaya in 1996, Bijork, James M. and Steven J. Grant. "Does those with a mild TBI were 2.6 times Traumatic Brain Injury Increase Risk more likely to be discharged for drug for Substance Abuse?," Journal of Neurotrauma 26, no. 7 [2009]: 1077or alcohol-related infractions, while 1082, doi: 10.1089/neu.2008.0849 those with moderate injuries were 5.4 times more likely to have those issues. Patients with focal lesions in the Jorge, Ricardo E., MD, Ricardo E. Jorge, MD; frontal and temporal lobes of the brain Sergio E. Starkstein, MD, PhD; Stephan Arndt, PhD; David Moser, also had a greater chance of relapsing PhD; Benedicto Crespo-Facorro, MD; if they had previously tried to quit an Robert G. Robinson, MD. "Alcohol addiction. Misuse and Mood Disorders FollowMood disorders and alcohol abuse were also frequently linked in these studies. Alcohol abuse can produce brain changes that exacerbate mood disorders and lead to further drinking. Bijork and Grant asserted that it is also possible that brain injury could be responsible for these mood disorders and could contribute to alcohol abuse.
ing Traumatic Brain Injury." Archives of General Psychiatry 62 [2005]: 742749, (reprinted), www.archgenpsychiatry.com

Turner, Aaron P. PhD; Charles H. Bombardier, PhD; Carl T. Rimmele, PhD. "A Typology of Alcohol Use Patterns Among Persons With Recent Traumatic Brain Injury or Spinal Cord Injury: Implications for Treatment Matching." Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 84 [2003]: 358-364

Brain Care Centre In The Community >>> Laurel Awards Nomination>>>

On September 9, 2013, staff members attended the Laurel Awards luncheon put on by Duncan & Craig LLP in honour of the innovation and creativity of not-for-profit organizations in the Edmonton Area. Brain Care Centres Assistive Device Training Program was nominated for one of three prestigious awards. It was an honour to have been nominated with such an amazing group of non-profits in Edmonton.

BCC & FC Edmonton >>>

FC Edmonton played the Fort Lauderdale Strikers on September 15, 2013 and BCC was front and centre for the action. Our dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to sell 50/50 tickets throughout the game and were able to raise over $1400 (the biggest 50/50 FC Edmonton has recorded!!!). The proceeds from the 50/50 will be going towards BCCs mobile technology initiative started by Sue Johnstone and Jill Hamm. To date they have raised $3,849 and are well on their way to their goal of $10,000. To learn more or to donate, please visit http://
sueandjill.eventbrite.ca/

Run For Brain Research>>>

Brain Care Centre staff were excited to be involved in the first annual Run for Brain Research to increase awareness for the Centre for Neuroscience at the University of Alberta on Saturday, September 28th. Ashley Brosda, Service Coordinator, and Lisa Baranieski, Counsellor, handed out Brain Care Centre resources and met with potential volunteers interested in supporting our agency. Heidi Mast, Service Coordinator, took part by running the 10km course option great work, Heidi! A current Brain Care Centre office volunteer also participated by running the 5km course option and did a fantastic job as well. You will be sure to see a Brain Care Centre presence next year in order to support such worthwhile research and have a bit of fun! For more information on the Centre for Neuroscience visit www.neuroscience.ualberta.ca/

Read-In Week >>>

Brain Care Centre staff Jean Roy (Community Living Program) and Teresa LaRocque-Walker (Support Program Lead) had an exciting time at the Hillview Elementary School on October 9th as part of Read In Week. Grade Four students were treated to a reading of the book Daddys Different by G. Forest, which tells the story of a little boy whose father acquires a brain injury. The little boy in the story, Jack, is very puzzled by the changes in his father and doesnt understand why his daddy is so different. Forest uses the analogy of animals to help children understand how this invisible injury can create changes in a parent. The author explores how Jacks daddy was before his injury (i.e. strong as an elephant) and how his daddy behaved after his injury (i.e. forgetful as a squirrel). The overarching message of the story is that no matter how much a parent may change, ultimately, Jacks daddys heart still beats the same, an idea that calms and soothes Jack. The Grade Fours were very engaged, listened intently and then shared the various animal analogies after the story was over. A reminder to be safe and wear your helmet was a final parting message to these delightful Grade Four students!

SOBEYS SPETEMBER 14, 2013 The BRAIN CARE CENTRE BBQ

THANKS TO: MELISSA, GRACE, THELMA, JOHNNY, JANE, SOBEYS Namao Centre, and all the FAMILY and FRIENDS who enjoyed the hot dogs and burgers.

SERVICE COORDINATOR FORUM >>>

By Mike Ryan, Manager
OCT 17-OCT 18th, Executive Royal Hotel Calgary AB Head Injury Resource Services). I had the

The annual ABII (Alberta Brain Injury Initiative) Service Coordinators Forum was held on Oct 17 and 18th in Calgary. SABIS (Southern Alberta Brain Injury Society) hosted the event. ABII is funded by the Ministry of Human Services and brings together Service Coordinators within the Alberta Brain Injury Network (ABIN). Typically, the Service Coordinator and Administrator (Manager-Funder) meetings serve as the foundation of the forum. In addition to these meetings, presentations from brain injury service providers and related professionals take place. Moreover, the networking aspect of the annual forum affords coordinators the opportunity to establish contacts, thus facilitating the possibility of information sharing and collaborative project development.

distinct pleasure of co-presenting with our stalwart Provisional Psychologist, Lisa Baranieski. Lisas expertise in the areas of Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy did not go unnoticed by any in attendance.

the attendees with Personal Growth Questions Ideas, which will be a useful tool for other agencies looking to start up personal growth and mentorship programs. Indeed, BCC is looking at starting its own mentorship program; therefore, we will definitely be picking Joes brain in the near future! The final Presentation of the forum was entitled OHH Behave! The presenter was Deb Sibley from Alberta Health Services Behavior Rehabilitation Outreach team. Deb started the presentation by speaking about how perceptions and values impact behaviors and thus affect interactions with others -including clients. From there she transitioned into the identification of internal (e.g. brain injury) and external factors (e.g. change in living situation, presence of real or imagined threats) that drive behavior. She emphasized the point that behaviors do serve a purpose (i.e., the client is trying to communicate something). Deb concluded her presentation by focusing on the need to explore the root causes of behavior, set limits, discover coping strategies and find effective communication and behavioral intervention techniques. After a pleasant lunch at the hotel and the completion of Forum Evaluations, we were on the road again to Edmonton. The Forum is all over for another year! Thanks once again to Dennis Cooney and his wonderful team at SABIS for hosting the event!

Ours was the first presentation on Day 1 of the Forum. After we finished, we were able to sit back, relax and enjoy the privilege of soaking in information from the ensuing speakers. The next presenter was Valerie Bunz, a Social Worker with Alberta Health Services in the Calgary region. She gave a presentation on Brain Injury Family Interventions (BIFI). This service is the brain child of Dr. Jeffery Kreutzer and was designed to promote coping strategies for families experiencing maladaptive behaviors and emotions post brain injury. The BIFI was designed to meet six goals: Overall, I would rate the 2013 Forum as a 1) Provision of information regarding success, largely due to the fact that a clear symptoms/challenges post-brain injury outcome was achieved at the service 2) Help family members understand how coordinator meeting: the establishment of a the injury has affected the family as a committee comprised of 1 coordinator from whole each agency for the express purpose of 3) Teach problem solving strategies to sharing resources and addressing gaps, achieve personal and family goals whether these pertain to service delivery or 4) Teach coping strategies to facilitate staff development/retention. Significant emotional recovery issues that are identified at this committee 5) Instill hope by identifying progress, level will be brought to managers, who will personal strengths and helping families then bring them forth during meetings with access resources contract specialists from the Ministry. 6) Teaching Family members effective communication skills to develop In the administrators meeting, the managers support systems. Coordinator feedback met with Human Services Representative indicated that they would love to have Blair Addams. Nothing set in stone emerged such a program in the rest of Alberta. from this meeting; however the following were primary discussion points: In the afternoon of Day 1, the 1)The results from the formative assessment aforementioned Service Coordinator and of Human Services Initiatives is presently Administrators meeting took place. The day being reviewed at the ministerial level; concluded with an enjoyable wine and 2) Contract templates may change; cheese gathering from 4-6pm, in which all 3) Contracts will possibly be re-established the attendees were allowed to take their on a yearly basis professional eye glasses off and chat 4) Staff retention and development is of informally. paramount concern. On Day 2, the first presentation was entitled While Brain Care Centre did not host this Finding Purpose after Brain Injury. This is event, we nevertheless gave a presentation a new program that SABIS has developed. on Brain Injury and Addictions, specifically Joe Schreiber, the manager of SABIS, gave referencing the Substance Use and Brain the presentation. Furthermore, Joe had two Injury (SUBI) model, which has been put into of his clients, who have been successful effect at BCC and owes its origins to a participants in the program, come up and collaborative initiative between the Ontario talk about their experiences. This gave the Ministry of Health and CHIRS (Community presentation added impact. Joe provided

Brain Basics
Tuesday November 26, 2013

6:30 - 9 pm Glenrose Hospital

Registration is mandatory!
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Benefits of Exercise >>>

By Samiya Fatima, Online Volunteer Brain injury affects thousands of high that it is reaching epidemic proportions. The brain is the most complex, remarkable organ of the human body and is responsible for all our actions and senses. A traumatic brain injury can change the life of an individual in many ways, causing cognitive effects, physical impairments, personality changes, interpersonal difficulty and can have social and economic consequences. The recovery process can take anywhere from a few months to several years to a lifetime, requiring many changes in ones daily living activities. Moderate levels of exercise can help improve brain function. Exercise, unique and non-invasive, helps regulate hormones and chemicals and restore plasticity. Not only is exercise beneficial for neurological disorder, it also helps control various other ailments such as high blood pressure, diabetes and cellular inflammation. Low to moderate exercise is beneficial to any individual, however, it is recommended that you consult with a doctor before starting an Canadians every year, the number is so exercise program. There are various forms of exercise an individual could do to improve their health. Exercises such as walking, running or swimming increase the heart rate, which in turn increase the blood flow to the brain, transporting valuable nutrients and oxygen. A combination of flexibility, strength, and cardio exercises should be practiced. TBI have a better recovery profile. That being said, it is never too late to start exercising! There have been instances where patients diagnosed with severe TBI faced lasting consequences such as being unable to walk unaided for the rest of their life, were able to do activities like driving and boating after a few weeks! Doctors say that short or less strenuous exercise is better than none; start exercising to gain better health. The benefits of exercising are many so get started on your path to

That being said, it is never too late to start exercising!

Previous studies have shown that people with TBI who exercised had complaints and symptoms, such as sleep problems, irritability, forgetfulness and being disorganized. They felt less depressed and were more involved in the community. Physical exercise has been shown to decrease the incidence of obesity which is associated with a sedentary lifestyle post TBI. Research also shows that people who were physically fit before

fewer physical, emotional and cognitive improved recovery.

References:
http://biac-aclc.ca/what-is-it/ http://icahn.mssm.edu/static_files/ MSSM/Files/Research/Centers/ Traumatic%20Brain%20Injury% 20Central/CR2.pdf http://www.noninvasiveicp.com/ sites/default/files/straipsniams/ node_203/ physical_exercise_ob_TBI.pdf

Our summer/fall walking group was a success! Participating Brain Care Centre clients came out 3 times each week (rain or shine) to complete a 1 km walk. As a collective group, our clients walked enough ground to have completed the Vancouver Marathon!

Photo credit: Julie Hansen

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(Edmonton)

November 2013
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

YAG : Young Adult Group SUBI: Brain Injury and Addictions Group UBI: Understanding Brain Injury 4
Mens Group 1:30-3:00 PM

7
YAG 7-9pm Caregivers Support Group 7-9pm

8 Womens Group
10-11:30 AM Budget Boosters check in (optional) 1:30-3:00 PM

11 Remembrance

12
Assertiveness Training 1:30-3:00 PM

13
Club Connect 1:30-3:00 PM

14
Assertiveness Training 1:303:00 PM YAG 7-9pm

15

Day OFFICE CLOSED

18
Mens Group 1:30-3:00 PM

19
Assertiveness Training 1:30-3:00 PM

20

21
Assertiveness Training 1:303:00 PM YAG 7-9pm Caregivers Support Group 7-9pm

22 Womens Group
10-11:30 AM Budget Boosters 1:30- 3:00 PM

25

16
Assertiveness Training 1:30-3:00 PM

27
Club Connect 1:30-3:00 PM

28
Assertiveness Training 1:303:00 PM YAG 7-9pm

29

December 2013
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

5 Christmas Celebration 5-9pm

Mens Group 1:30-3:00 PM

9 10 11

Womens Group 10-11:30 AM

Club Connect 1:30-3:00 PM

12 YAG 7-9pm

13

Budget Boosters check in (optional) 1:30-3:00 PM

19

16

17

18

Mens Group 1:30-3:00 PM

YAG 7-9pm

20 Last day before Holidays BCC Office Closed for PD

Brain Care Centre will be closed from December 23rd to January 2nd. We will reopen Friday January 3rd, 2014. Happy Holidays! :)
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January 2014
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

YAG : Young Adult Group SUBI: Brain Injury and Addictions Group UBI: Understanding Brain Injury 6 7

New Years Day! Brain Care Centre Closed

1

2 Brain Care Centre 3

Closed
9
YAG 7-9pm Caregivers Support Group 7-9pm

BCC Reopens!

8
Club Connect 1:30-3:00 PM

10
Womens Group 10-11:30 AM Budget Boosters check in (optional) 1:30-3:00 PM

13
Mens Group 1:30-3:00 PM

14

15

16
YAG 7-9pm

17

20

21
Memory & Attention 1:30-3pm

22

23

24

Memory & Attention 1:30- Womens Group 3pm 10-11:30 AM YAG 7-9pm Caregivers Support Budget Boosters Group 7-9pm 1:30- 3:00 PM

27
Mens Group 1:30-3:00 PM

28

29
Club Connect 1:30-3:00 PM

30
YAG 7-9pm

February 2014
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

4
Self Esteem 1:30-3pm

6
Self Esteem 1:30-3pm YAG 7-9pm

7
Budget Boosters check in (optional) 1:30-3:00 PM

10
Mens Group 1:30-3:00 PM

11
Self Esteem 1:30-3pm

12
Club Connect 1:30-3:00 PM

13
Self Esteem 1:30-3pm YAG 7-9pm Caregivers Support Group 7-9pm

14
Womens Group 10-11:30 AM

17 Family Day

18
Self Esteem 1:30-3pm

19

20
Self Esteem 1:30-3pm YAG 7-9pm

21
Budget Boosters 1:30- 3:00 PM

Office Closed!
24
Mens Group 1:30-3:00 PM

25

26
Club Connect 1:30-3:00 PM

27
YAG 7-9pm Caregivers Support Group 7-9pm

28
Womens Group 10-11:30 AM

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BCC Services >>>

Service Coordination: Service Coordination offers case management and assists the client with goal setting then finding and implementing resources and services to help the client achieve their goals. Some common goal areas include: areas and interventions are client centred and based on the wants or needs of the client and as such, clients must be active participants in the occupational therapy process. Intervention plans are created within the context of an individuals daily life. The focus is on enabling optimal levels of participation in their own home and community and fostering increased levels of independence with their daily tasks. This is achieved through skill building as well as through adaptation of the environment or the activity. Referrals to occupational therapy can be made through a Brain Care Centre Service Coordinator. Information & Education: Brain Care Centre offers comprehensive, up-to-date information related to the effect of brain injury on individuals, families and the community. Please contact the office for information on how to arrange an education session. Brain Basics: An Evening of Education and Understanding is a course offered once per month to parents, spouses, caregivers, siblings, friends of people affected by brain injury, community members, volunteers and professionals who would like to learn more about brain injury and its effects. The session runs Tuesday evenings. Please contact Brain Care Centres Office Coordinator for information and registration. Life Skill Classes Understanding Brain Injury (UBI): This class is one of Brain Care Centres most popular sessions! Any and all are welcome! Learn about all of the possible changes one might experience after an acquired brain injury. Participants will gain understanding and insight, will feel connected to a larger community of survivors and will have goals for where their journey will take them. a boost? Do you find it hard to pay attention or concentrate? This two day workshop provides practical suggestions for how to manage changes in memory and attention span after brain injury or stroke. Open to new and returning clients. Assertiveness Training: Assertiveness is often linked with self-esteem. It is a skill which can be practiced and grown! Being assertive means you can confidently communicate your thoughts, opinions, and beliefs without being perceived as aggressive by others. You will learn that it is not okay for others to ignore you, to deny your rights to be heard or to have a different point of view. This group is a great chance to learn new communication skills! Anger, Frustration and Impulsivity: Anger is a useful emotion when used well. It can get you moving and give you the energy to protect yourself or your values and to stand up for something. Used inappropriately, it can lead to aggression and saying things in the heat of the moment that are later regretted. Its impossible to avoid people or things that anger or irritate you - but you can learn to control how you react to them. This group teaches you how to positively express yourself when feeling frustrated and angry and you will be given the chance to practice these skills in a safe environment. Electronic Devices Assistance Community Living Program The Assistive Devices Training program offers clients one-on-one training on various electronic devices, such as, computers, cell phones and electronic tablets. These devices can assist with memory, communication, organizational skills and help to decrease social isolation. Through individual modified computer programs and apps clients can become more independent at home and within their community. Identity Theft: This course educates individuals on the importance of keeping your identity safe and avoiding scams. Internet Safety: This course assists individuals with safe internet procedures such as password length and protection, not sharing personal information and so much more. Memory & Attention: Does your memory need
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access emotional support increase community involvement/ participation optimize level of independence learn about brain injury and effects electronic compensation strategies optimize personal support network cognitive rehabilitation life skill return develop personal wellness plan perceptual rehabilitation return to productive activity

Support Facilitation: To further enhance and support an ISP, Brain Care Centre offers a Support Facilitation program. This service includes one-on-one counselling sessions designed to assist individuals, couples and families with discovering and utilizing resources and strategies for maximizing wellness after brain injury. This process may include a review of intake information, identifying personal strengths and needs for support, goal setting, and information about brain injury, introduction to coping strategies and educational resources, and/or referral to community resources. For those needing additional support in building new skills in the community, Service Coordinators can refer individuals to the Supports for Community Living Service (SCLS). Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy (OT) supports BCC service plans by enabling clients and families to manage cognitive and physical changes after brain injury. Occupational therapists have the skills to assess the cognitive and physical aspects of daily functional activities (i.e.: meal preparation, transportation management, managing appointments and schedules etc.). Typical goal areas for occupational therapy services include activities and tasks related to self-care, productivity and/or leisure. All goal

Self-Esteem: This course uses proven cognitive techniques to help individuals learn how to control the self-critical inner voice and build up a healthy sense of self-worth. You will leave this four session course with useful skills that can easily be applied to your day to day life and strategies to use when you face situations in which your sense of self-worth is challenged.

connected with others experiencing similar management systems as well as new systems Groups Womens Group: This psychosocial support challenges. This group meets on a bi-weekly as needed. group is for women living with acquired basis. brain injury. Areas of focus include information on the brain and brain injury, health and wellness, coping, and accessing supports. This group provides a safe environment in which group members can explore the many successes and challenges that are inherent in life with a brain injury. Through peer support, group members have the opportunity to normalize their experiences and learn from others experiences. Mens Group: A support group for males Substance Use and Brain Injury Group (SUBI): This support group for is for individuals struggling with addiction and brain injury. SUBI is a safe place for clients to recognize their symptoms that are common to brain injury and substance use, e.g. short-term memory loss, diminished judgment and mood disturbances. By sharing life experiences group members learn to recognize triggers and behavior, develop strategies for coping, build healthy relationships and access community with brain injuries to interact with peers and resources. This group runs weekly at Brain discuss strategies for overcoming trials and Care Centre. tribulations in their daily lives. Mens Group focuses on peer connection and building healthy communication strategies and encourages the understanding of brain injury in relation to various topics. Group members are encouraged to share their experiences, which facilitates discussion and understanding of brain injury among group members. Young Adult Groups (YAG): This group provides support for adults between the ages of 18-30 with a brain injury who encounter personal, social, and/or emotional challenges in their lives. Young Adult Group focuses on building social networks, community involvement, education on brain injury and various topics associated with promoting wellness. Opportunities for sharing, identifying and developing coping strategies and natural peer supports are explored during the course of each session. Care Givers Group: This group is designed for familial caregivers who are providing support to someone who has sustained a brain injury. Peer support is encouraged to assist caregivers in developing a stronger sense of their ability to cope and feel Budget Boosters: Do you have difficulty keeping track of your money? Is it hard to keep your bills straight? Do your spending habits reflect your priorities and values? Is your spending intentional and mindful? Do you hate budgeting, but like having money? help people make better financial decisions with confidence and find peace with money. This monthly group will provide financial advice, guidance and coaching and will include presentations on a variety of topics. There is also an optional mid-month drop-in space where you can come and ask one of the group facilitators about your personal financial goals. Workshops management skills have been affected by a brain injury will learn new strategies and techniques to improve their current time Dates may be subject to change. Please see the calendar for specific dates. Club CONNECT Communication Group: This twice monthly group promotes peer connection and healthy living and provides opportunities for discussion. Come and join us for a lively hour and a half of learning and discussion! Expressive Art Therapy: This group uses art, music and photography as mediums to help clients work through issues surrounding grief and loss. Stress, Worry & Anxiety: This group offers strategies to help clients develop more effective coping skills. Caregiver Skills Training Workshop: This four week interactive workshop is designed to educate caregivers on how to help their loved one to become more independent in functional activities. The methods you will learn are research-based and are widely used and trusted by professionals. This class is open to caregivers of individuals with brain injury. Active Living & Nutrition: This workshop lays the foundation for a healthy lifestyle. The workshop provides clients with information regarding eating healthy, using the Canadian Food Guide and ideas on how to be more active. Strategies can include how to shop on a budget, simple recipes and activity logs to help clients reach individual

Budget Boosters is a group that will strive to goals.

Classes and Support Groups are offered to individuals with brain injury. (Brain Basics and Caregivers Group are offered to caregivers of people living with Brain Injury.) PRE-REGISTRATION and/ or an ASSESSMENT IS REQUIRED for all groups and classes offered at Brain Care Centre.

Time Management: Participants whose time Space is limited so please register early.

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Public Education Program Cont...>>>

It was my pleasure to present on behalf of Brain Care Centre during the Brain Injury Association of Canadas National

Alberta Caregiver College is a virtual college dedicated to providing courses to enhance the knowledge and skills of caregivers to provide for their family member. Upcoming courses
The Alberta Caregiver College offers courses for caregivers (family, friends or neighbors) of brain injury and stroke survivors in the fall and spring. Courses are from 5:00 P.M. 7:00 P.M. and are held at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital at 10230-111 Avenue, Edmonton, and are available at various Telehealth sites across Alberta. The course is also available via webcast from your home please indicate on your form whether you are attending via Telehealth at one of the sites or via webcasting.

Conference Sept 25 27th 2013 in Kingston, Ontario. The conference was a wonderful opportunity to share the content of BCCs concussion program, as well as the results from our pilot year and to learn what other cities and provinces are doing to approach this growing challenge in our communities. Partners from the Neurotrauma Foundation in Ontario also presented their work on, and their approach to, this difficult concern. They agreed that quick access to medical professionals trained in concussion protocol is critical to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Teams from across the country further acknowledged that the areas for growth also include: A) More clearly defined return to school and work protocol B) A unified and consistent message C) More resources and information to assist those affected by non-sports related concussions The team at Brain Care Centre is actively working with a new group of young athletes this year to ensure they receive this very important information about safe concussion management. Visit our website for a link to these and other valuable concussion resources!

Caregivers of Survivors of Brain Injury and Stroke

Sessions Accessible via a Telehealth site or in your own home via Pilot Webcasting sessions.

There are many issues that caregivers of a brain injury or stroke survivor may have to deal with when caring for their loved one.

BCC Wishlist >>>

Topics covered
Session 1 - Tuesday, October 15, 2013 Introduction and Overview of the Caregiver College Session 2 - Tuesday, October 22, 2013 Physiological Aspects of Brain Injury and Stroke (Understanding Brain Injury/Stroke) Session 3 - Tuesday, October 29, 2013 Functional and Mobility Issues after Brain Injury/Stroke (Physical and Occupational Rehabilitation) Session 4 - Tuesday, November 5, 2013 Brain Injury - The Invisible Injury (Cognitive and Emotional Changes) Session 5 - Tuesday, November 12, 2013 Stress and Coping Following Traumatic Change and Chronic Disability (Caring for the Caregiver) Session 6 - Tuesday, November 19, 2013 Community Resources for Caregivers of Individuals with Brain Injury and Stroke (Community Resources)

K-cups for Keurig Tim Hortons Gift Cards Laptops Ipads TV for front office Digital Picture Frame LCD Projector Raisers Edge Industrial Printer Industrial Shredder Office Space Volunteers
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Edson News >>>

By Laura See, Service Coordinator, Edson Office August 6th- Brain Care Centre Edson hosted a community BBQ in front of the local Edson Sobeys store. It was a beautiful sunny day; many people attended the event and stayed to chat with staff members and volunteers about Brain Care Centre and the Services we offer. Talisman Energy generously donated the use of their BBQ and a staff member for the day and Edson Sobeys donated the food and refreshments. A huge thank-you to our sponsors and community members who came out to support us and helped make the event a success.

Get Connected!
Like us on facebook! www.facebook.com Follow us on Twitter @BrainCareCentre Check out our Website: www.braincarecentre.com

For more information on the Drayton Valley Group contact Tannis @ 1-780-712-7560 or toll free 1-866-712-7560 For more information on the Edson Group contact Laura@ 1-780-712-7560 or toll free 1-866-712-7560

Brain Care Center Edson Support Group

Location: BCC Office- Edson Meetings are held every first and third Wednesday of the month from 1pm to 3pm; the group does not meet during the summer months of July and August. The group supports individuals and families affected by a brain injury. If there are any concerns or questions please contact Laura at the Edson Brain Center Office.
November 6th December 4th No group Jan 1 February 5th Edson Support Group First and third Wednesday of each month at Brain Care Centre Edson office 524- 50 Street, Edson 1:00pm 3:00pm Drayton Valley BI Group First and Third Monday of each month at Mitchs #102 4341 50 Street, Drayton Valley 1:00pm- 3:00pm

November 20th December 18th January 15th, 2014 February 19th

Phone- 780-712-7560 Email- laura@braincarecentre.com

For more information on these groups or services provided in Edson and Drayton Valley please contact Brain Care Centre Toll Free at 1-866-712-7560.

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Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament >>>

The Inaugural Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament was a huge success, raising over $51,000 for Brain Care Centre! Brain Care Centre would like to thank everyone who participated, volunteered and sponsored our SOLD OUT golf tournament. We could not have asked for a better day! Event Highlights: Josh Classen, Emcee Thank you to Jim for the powerful story about concussion and how it can effect ones life Winning team with a 21 score! Eskimos Alumni The Beautiful landscape at the Lewis Estates Golf Course Mark your calendars! Tentative date for the 2nd Annual Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament is set for

Friday July 25, 2014! Tournament Winners!

Photo Credit: Dorsa Sobhani & Elizabeth Carlson 18

The Inaugural Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament was a Huge Success!

Thank You
to the participants and sponsors!
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Brain Care Centre would like to thank the following volunteers for their support with the Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament:

EXECUTIVE SPONSORS

Kalin Askin Barb Baer Pillay Felicia Boychuk Anne Brown Elizabeth Carlson Marieann Cummings Barb Coffil

Bear Stables

PRIZE SPONSOR

Andre Donado Cheryl Favil Isabelle Freichs Lorna Gilroy

MEDIA & PRINT SPONSORS

Gary Gutscher Brian Hatfield Hanhmi Huynh Elina Kim

HOLE SPONSORS

Connie Luu Sarah Nolette Maureen OBrien Valerie Oczowski Lauri Pethick Dianne Pollock Rick Pollock

Grant Ericksen
FOOD & BEVERAGE SPONSORS

Natasha Robb Sepideh Sabouri Glen Schmude Dorsa Sobhani Carrie Vokey Josy Wicentowich Jean Wrathal

HOLE-IN-ONE SPONSORS

www.braincarecentre.com

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http://www.gocomics.com/mikeluckovich/2013/02/03?utm_source=pinterest

Jim M., our wonderful guest speaker at the golf tournament, and his lovely wife dropped by the office this week with some adorable puppies. Needless to say the staff were happy to see them! Thanks for the visit, guys!

Become a Sponsor of BCC>>>

Partnering with Brain Care Centre will give you a chance to be a part of creating something new and
innovative. Brain Care Centre has several signature events: The Brain Care Centre breakfast that kicks off Brain Injury Awareness Month in June, The Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament, The Edson BIG Brunch, and the Defy Limitations Charity Gala & Auction. Along with our Signature Events we have several community ancillary events spread throughout the year that provide education and awareness about the issues of brain injury and what Brain Care Centre is doing to help. Brain Care Centre accepts sponsorship by means of in-kind donations or cash donations. To find out more about the opportunities to give and the recognition received please contact us today.

Help us empower others to Defy Limitations TODAY!

Corporate Platinum Sponsorship $40,000 + Gold Sponsorship $15,000$39,999 Silver Sponsorship $5,000$14,999 Bronze Sponsorship $1500$4,999 Friends of BCC $100$1499
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To find out more about event specific sponsorship for any of our signature events contact Andrea, Community Engagement Coordinator by phone 780-477-7575 Ext. 11 by email events@braincarecentre.com donate online: www.braincarecentre.com

Golfing for a Worthy Cause >>>

By Terry Tobin, Senior Development Officer, Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation Alex as the hospital embarks on the Inner City Health and Wellness Program, a pilot project aimed at providing better care for Edmontons Inner City population. The Royal The tournament attracted an Alexandra Hospital Foundation was impressive roster of 150 golfers, many pleased to act as Presenting Sponsor of whom responded to the invitation as for the tournament. a way of supporting the Brain Care The opportunity to sponsor the golf Centres worthy mission. More than tournament has helped us put the $50,000 was raised in support of the spotlight on the connection between Centres Concussion Hotline and the Inner City Health and Wellness Program brain injury and homelessness, explained Andrew Otway, President at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. and CEO of the Royal Alexandra The Hon. A. Anne McLellan P.C., O.C., of Hospital Foundation. Were pleased to Bennett Jones and past president of have a valuable ally like Brain Care the Royal Alexandra Hospital Centre as an official partner in the Inner Foundations board of directors, City Health and Wellness Program. described it as a fun day in aid of a The initiative is led by Dr. Kathryn serious cause. I think that under Dr. Garnet Cummings leadership the Brain Dong, an Emergency Department physician at the Royal Alex. During her Care Centre is doing extraordinary work, offering much needed services to residency nine years ago, Dr. Dong people who are coping with profound realized that too many patients were falling through the cracks. life changes due to a brain injury. On a sunny August afternoon, the Brain Care Centre hosted its inaugural Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament at the Lewis Estates Golf Course. Executive Director Dr. Garnet Cummings saw a natural link shared by the Brain Care Centre and the Royal I volunteered in some of Edmontons Inner City communities and realized that the medical profession needed to do more to help people dealing with any combination of addictions, mental health issues, acquired brain injury, unstable housing or poverty, says Dr. Dong. Its obvious that we will help someone coming to the Emergency Department for a broken arm, but what if they broke their arm because of an addiction or homelessness? Helping someone deal with the underlying issues that contributed to the injury will ultimately help them more than just the trauma care they receive. The Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament was a fun way to give a boost to both the Brain Care Centre and to create awareness and community support for the Inner City Health and Wellness Program. The involvement of the community will be crucial so that the Royal Alexandra Hospital, in conjunction with the Brain Care Centre and other community organizations and government agencies, can help improve health outcomes for Edmontons inner city residents.

Proud Supporter of the Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament

DANNY DION

Casino volunteers needed for Our Edson Fundraiser

Thursday & Friday- December 5 & 6th, 2013
Brain Care Centre would like to thank International Brotherhood Of Electrical Workers 1007 for their generous donation of space for our professional development training.

Apex Casino, St. Albert For more information please contact janine@braincarecentre.com
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Support to the BCC Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament was AWESOME!!
High fives extended to all those who sponsored, golfed, donated auction items and volunteered at the August 29th BCC Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament. It was a resounding success with perfect weather, golfing and brain puzzler challenges!

Brain Care Centre acknowledges the gracious ongoing support from:

Alberta Health Services; Alberta Human Services Disability Policy and Supports Division, Ministry of Culture Community Initiatives Program, ATCO Pipelines, the Canada Life Assurance Company, Crimson Phoenix Marketing Group Ltd., Harley Davidson of Edmonton - Anne Gheran, NeruoTrauma Psychology Services - Dr. Gail Matazow, Pricewaterhouse Coopers Canada Foundation, TELUS Employee Charitable Giving Program, United Way of AB Capital Region, Workers' Compensation Board, Laurie Becker, Rick Bodnar, Dr. Donald Dick, Cindy & Eric Elliott, Patricia Frank, Sean Gonzales, Chantelle Hess, K. Lynn Hyska, Petronila Jasa, Patricia Jeffery, Taunya A. St. Pierre & Joel Joseph, Scott & Tanya Karpyshyn, Donna & Victor Karpyshyn, Gerald Kreba, Marni Kuhlmann, Blair & Holly Martin, Mufty & Bill Mathewson, June & Albert McDonald, Malcolm Murray, Glen & Lorna Oleksiw, Louise Ramsey, Christel Rottach, Carla & Chris Rudderham, Penny Salmond, Chad & Sandra Wouters & Family & Susan & Neil Shaw, Claire & Felix Suyat, Donald Taylor, Richard & Reva Theuman, Helen Wright.

Donations were received

in recognition of Brain Care Centre President Stephanie Boldts volunteer contribution over the past year and in loving memory of Dorothy Astle, Lorne Lemay, Daniel Mellec and Jonathan Warren. BCCs gratitude is extended to the following incredible people who hosted 3rd party events to support Brain Care Centre:
Melissa Beddow and family/ friends who held an awareness and fundraising BBQ September 14th outside the Namao Sobeys in Edmonton. Susan Johnstone and family/ friends for organizing the 50/50 Raffle at the September 15th FC Soccer game in Edmonton. The University of Alberta student group - Brain Awareness Movement (BAM) who held their BIG BAM dinner at campus Dinwoodie Lounge on Oct 4th.

Dr. Gabor Mate June 18th Presentation:

Thanks to the MS Society, Hinton who invited BCC to join with them in bringing to Hinton inspirational speaker, Dr. Gabor Mate. His presentation When the Body Says No: Mind Body Unity and the Stress-Disease Connection was extremely well received with excellent attendance from all over central western Alberta.

Human Services - Disability Policy and Supports Division

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DEFY LIMITATIONS!

Membership Form
Please help Brain Care Centre grow as a community based organization by becoming a member.
Library Resources Voting Privileges Preferred Seating at Events And Much, Much More! Save the Stamp! Please have my BCC News delivered to me at my following e-mail address: ___________________________ Family Corporate Non-profit

Quarterly Newsletter

Name: ___________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________ City/Province/Postal Code: __________________________________________ Phone: Day: ____________ Evening: ______________ Fax: _______________ Person with Professional Caregiver

BCC provides a continuum of services to people affected by acquired brain injury including cognitive rehabilitation, education, support, service coordination, referral, advocacy and volunteer opportunities.

I would like to donate $ _______ for my BCC Membership. Membership fees are by donation and do not qualify for a charitable receipt. Payment Methods: Cash Cheque payable to Brain Care Centre Credit Card
Name on Card: _______________________________ VISA MC AMEX Card # _____________________________________ Expiry ______ /_____
mm yy

Brain Care Centre #229 Royal Alex Place 10106 111 Ave Edmonton, AB, Canada T5G 0B4 Phone: 780.477-7575 Fax: 780.474.4415 Toll Free: 1.800.425.5552 e-mail:admin@braincarecentre.com www. braincarecentre.com

If you would like to make an additional charitable contribution to further support the work of BCC, please indicate below. For contributions of $ 10 or greater, BCC will issue a charitable receipt. $35 $50 $100 Other _____

Edson Office 1.780.712.7560 Toll Free: 1.866.712.7560 Edson Fax: 1.780.712.7567 If you need more information about BCC, brain injury or stroke, please phone us.

Contributions are gratefully acknowledged in BCCs Quarterly Newsletter.

I would prefer my donation remain anonymous

I would like to learn about Brain Care Centre volunteer opportunities.

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