In this issue >>>

Brain Injury Awareness Month Superhero Social Brain Matters Golf Tournament The BIG Brunch, Edson Event

Spring 2013 Issue 2

Cognosco
Knowing what we do!
Extreme Sports & BI>>> pg. 4 Depression & Wellness after Brain Injury>>> pg. 6 New Remand Centre>>> pg. 8 Profile>>> pg. 11 BCC Calendar >>> pg. 12&13 Edson News>>> pg. 17 Whats APP? >>> pg. 18 Advertise with us! >>> pg. 21 Acknowledgements>>>pg. 22
Building Capabilities after Brain Injury & Stroke In honour of those impacted by traumatic brain injury and to show our support during Brain Injury Awareness Month, the Brain Injury Interagency of Edmonton are distributing symbolic green ribbons throughout the month of June. In June, as part of our awareness campaign, we will be giving these green ribbons out for a pay what you can donation. Money raised will go to maintaining the edmontonBIAM.com website for people to access information on the brain injury interagency organizations who help those impacted by acquired brain injury. Please read on in this issue of Cognosco for more information about upcoming events and awareness campaigns happening in north western Alberta throughout the month of June. We hope you will stop in to Brain Care Centre and pick up your green ribbon. Join us in the community to show support of those impacted by brain injury and stroke. Wear your ribbon with pride!

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

BCC Gets Title Sponsor for Inaugural Golf Tournament!

Brain Care Centre is proud to announce our title sponsor for the inaugural BRAIN MATTERS Charity Golf Tournament, thank you to the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation for their contribution to the concussion program and commitment to inner city health by becoming the Title sponsor of this years tournament. The inaugural BRAIN MATTERS charity golf tournament is set to take place on Thursday, August 29 at Lewis Estates Golf Course in Edmonton. We would like to invite you to participate in the inaugural BRAIN MATTERS Charity Golf Tournament on August 29, 2013. All proceeds from the tournament will be dedicated to launching Brain Care Centres specialized concussion education and support program. Through extensive research efforts and community partnerships, BCC has developed a comprehensive program that addresses the pressing issue of mild traumatic brain injury such as concussion in our community. Through this fund raising effort to raise $30,000, BCC will be ready to expand prevention education programming for youth, offer an information line for callers affected by concuss ion and other forms of mild traumatic brain injury, and offer important support services to those experiencing prolonged and debilit ating post concussion syndrome symptoms. For more information contact Andrea, Events Coordinator at Brain Care Centre 780 -477-7575, or go to our website www.braincarecentre.com. We hope to see you on the greens in August!

Brain Care Centre Staff Directory >>>

Executive Director Operations Manager Office Coordinator Manager of Client Services & Contracts Manager of Service Coordination/Education/Research Service 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 Events Coordinator Service/Support Coordinator. CAPCC - Edson Service Coordinator - Edson Dr. Garnet Cummings Louise Jensen Shamim Khanbhai Mike Ryan Carolyn Biron Barb Baer Pillay Ashley Brosda Julie Hanson Mitchell Tokarek Madison Steele Stephanie Silva Teresa LaRocque-Walker Lisa Baranieski Jean Roy Larissa Patrick Janine Tremblay Andrea Carroll Papirny Tannis Arsenault Laura See Ext 30 Ext 12 Ext 10 Ext 24 Ext 19 Ext 16 Ext 22 Ext 29 Ext 13 Ext 14 Ext 36 Ext 23 Ext 15 Ext 26 Ext 25 Ext 33 Ext 28
(780)712- 3241 (780)712- 9789

gcummings@braincarecentre.com admin@braincarecentre.com Shamim@braincarecentre.com mike@braincarecentre.com carolyn@braincarecentre.com barb@braincarecentre.com ashley@braincarecentre.com julie@braincarecentre.com mitchell@braincarecentre.com madison@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

# 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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Extreme Sports and Brain Injury: A Growing Concern>>>

By Evan Stait, Online Volunteer The problem of brain injuries has been well documented in highly publicized cases in sports such as hockey and football. Canada has paid very close attention, and with good reason, to the ups and downs of Sidney Crosbys journey through concussion problems. We all held our breath at the thought of the great Canadian icon being forced into early retirement. We exhaled a sigh of relief upon his return, hoping that he can once again solidify a gold medal for our country in the upcoming Sochi Winter Olympics. We've also heard a great deal about the growing concerns regarding the effects of repeated impact to the head of professional football players. After all, we are now witnessing, at a scale never seen before, the long term ramifications that multiple concussions are having on a generation of retired football players and their families. to the bravado and immaturity of the sports themselves. This lack of regulation in extreme sports with regards to protocol stands in opposition to highly organized and regulated sports like hockey and football. For example, there is a protocol in place in the NHL that must be strictly adhered to when a player suffers a concussion or exhibits the symptoms of one. This kind of regulation is nonexistent in the extreme sports as it used to be in the NFL, NHL, etc. "It's because my head was not healed and I shouldn't have been snowboarding againIt was the dumbest thing Ive ever done in my life was to take that next run. " Pearce is not alone, as pointed out in a story by the Neurological Rehabilitation Institute at Brookhaven Hospital. After the Winter X Games of 2012, roughly a dozen athletes were asked about their brain injury experiences. Only three said they had endured less than four concussions. Astoundingly, this means that up to 75% of professional winter extreme sports athletes have had more than four concussions in their career. Extreme sports are fueling what doctors are referring to as the silent epidemic. As it is reported in the Knowledge Network's documentary Wipeout, extreme sports are now the leading cause of death and permanent disability in men under the age of 35. Whether you're at a local ski hill or skateboard park, you're bound to witness a lot of talented youth, but you will not see them all wearing helmets. Even though helmets are mandatory during most competitions, many of the individuals who take part in extreme sports recreationally do not wear helmets. This problem is tied up to the nature of the sports themselves. Extreme sports are defined by thrill seeking behavior. Extreme sports consist of an activity that involves attempting a maneuver, called a trick. At the level these sports are at now, whether snowboarding, skiing, or otherwise, tricks can consist of launching yourself two to three storeys in the air, spinning in rotation and flipping at the same time. The idea is to land the trick in the face of the risk, which allows the adrenaline rush and sense of euphoria due to the accomplishment. And therein lies the rub. Once the trick can be repeated multiple times, it no longer fetches the same euphoria and adrenaline surge. New, more difficult and risky maneuver must be performed to achieve this.

A harrowing tale in this regard is the case of Kevin Pearce, a once promising young professional snowboarder whose life was forever changed due to brain injury. Pearce had his career Much less awareness exists for ending injury just months before the the so called extreme sports. These Vancouver Olympics. As a half-pipe are sports such as skateboarding, dirt snowboarder, Pearce was pushing to biking, skiing, snowboarding, and a become one of the medal contenders, host of others growing in popularity. but his life changed abruptly. In a Many extreme sports are showcased practice run he suffered a hard blow to each summer and winter on the X the head, but this wasn't the injury that Games; a large contest for multiple ended Pearce's career. That injury extreme sports, hosted by the sports came less than a month later when, as network mogul, ESPN. The X Games he put it in an interview with USA have grown in popularity and have today, "It's because my head was not given a bigger stage for extreme healed and I shouldn't have been athletes to exhibit their talents. snowboarding again," he said. "That However, even with the growing was the dumbest thing I've ever done publicity for the sports themselves, the in my life was to take that next run. For celebration of the recklessness the consequences and how dangerous inherent to extreme sports acts against it was, it's a joke that I even thought growing a general awareness for the about doing that." Pearce is one of brain injuries that can result from many cases where the lack of a extreme sporting activities. There is a concussion protocol for athletes in lack of regulation, protocol, and extreme sports had devastating documentation when it comes to effects. extreme sports. Perhaps this is due

Continued on page 19...

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Message from Executive Director >>>

After acquiring a brain injury and healing from the acute phase, it is important to focus on building capabilities. In essence, this is what the Brain Care Centre does every day with every client. The BCCs mission is : To be a source of hope for those impacted by brain injury, in providing a compassionate continuum of brain care services from prevention to reintegration. The building of capabilities focuses on what the client can do and taking them beyond what they perceive are their limitations. This process is different for each client and the timing of the milestones is individual. It is my observation as the Executive Director of Brain Care Centre and my own experiences as a brain injury survivor, that no matter what the cause of the brain injury, there are key milestones that all survivors experience. The survivors progress is measured by how they deal with each challenge and whether we are willing to move to the next challenge in the journey. The staff at brain care is very experienced in tailoring services and programs to assist each client to defy limitations. This could involve cognitive retraining, group support, memory device aid training or counselling.

Dr. Garnet Cummings Executive Director

The Brain Care Centre has an exciting array of events planned for the 2013 year. One such event is the inaugural Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament. It is my great pleasure to announce that the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation has agreed to be the major sponsor of the inaugural Brain Care Centre Brain Matters Charity Golf Tournament on August 29, 2013 at the Lewis Estates Golf Course. This tournament proceeds will support the concussion program at Brain Care Centre and will bring awareness to the great work that the RAH Foundation is doing in the area of Inner City Health.

Depression and Well-being After Brain Injury>>>

By Carolyn Dallimore, Online Volunteer more relevant for severe brain injury. As many as half of all patients associate with an NFL sportsman. recovering from TBI show symptoms Maybe you're a fan, in which case you of major depressive disorder at some might call a professional football point, though less than a quarter player athletic, talented, strong, receive treatment. Major depressive competitive. The less charitable among disorder is in turn associated with us may instead say overpaid, poorer recovery, poorer cognitive overindulged, mediocre, vain. One functioning, mobility problems, person might fondly remember aggression, and anxiety. Depression cheering for their team during the big can emerge at any length of time after game, watching their hero lead the the injury, though it is in the early town to victory, and think, glorious, heroic. Another might suffer flashbacks months that a patient is most vulnerable. to the high- school jocks, Hollywood bullies, stupid and violent in equal At this point, it might be worth measure, and think, wincing, more answering a question no one is asking: brawn than brain. what is depression, anyway? Most of us think we know it's feeling sad, Whatever your personal opinion of professional athletes may be, chances obviously but the reality is a lot more complicated than that. Depression is a are you didn't think the word long term condition that usually depressed at any point. What have they involves a low mood, but the absence got to be depressed about, with their of sadness is not the absence of good health and money and legions of depression. The aforementioned NFL fans? Yet recent research has shown athletes did not show this most typical that a full quarter of former NFL sign. They did not feel especially blue athletes suffer from prolonged and did not cry often, which meant depression, a number significantly that they did not realize what they higher than you'd find in a random were experiencing and did not seek sampling of fans from the bleachers. treatment. Instead, they suffered in The culprit? Researchers speculate that silence through some less stereotypical symptoms of depression: this unexpected professional risk is constantly decreased energy, low down to the frequent mild brain motivation, and problems with sleep injuries football stars suffer from. Concussion: the word that plagues the and appetite. NFL, the NHL, and likely countless Other symptoms include feelings of other sporting organizations. These worthlessness or guilt, difficulty injuries don't appear too troubling at concentrating on tasks or first take a day off, take some conversations, restlessness, and painkillers, you'll be fine but thoughts of death. Depression is not gradually the minor damage builds. always life threatening (though there The structure of the brain is altered; are counsellors and helplines available some cells are lost, some blood flow is reduced. Researchers aren't quite clear for anyone plagued by suicidal thoughts), but it is always quality- ofyet how these changes lead to life threatening. Nobody, given the depression, but it seems certain that option, would choose to experience they do. The home of mood is in the life sad, tired, unmotivated, and brain, after all. uninterested in pleasure. It is the What is true for concussions is all the opposite of the ideal.

There are a lot of words you might

For those recovering from TBI, depressive disorders can be especially damaging. The associated lack of energy and motivation hinder recovery in all ways, physical as well as psychological. Patients with both TBI and depression also tend to have lower mobility and more pain, greater anxiety and worse social functioning, than their non- depressed counterparts. Most find it difficult to resume their pre- injury activities. It's not clear yet whether this poor functioning is caused by depression, or whether it causes depression, but the end result is the same: TBI patients with untreated depressive disorders simply do not recover as well as we might otherwise hope. Treatment is essential, and making it available early would likely have an enormously positive effect on quality of life. Apart from a career in professional sports, there are several other risk factors for developing depression following TBI. For obvious reasons, patients with a history of mood disorders are most at risk, along with those who had previously suffered anxiety disorders. Age also has some effect: the 18-30 crowd is much more likely to develop depression than those sixty years or older, for example. Longterm alcohol dependence leaves people especially vulnerable; it's possible that other types of substance abuse would have a similar effect. At the moment, researchers are unsure whether the type or location of injury makes a difference, although it does seem that the risk of depression increases regardless of the severity of the injury. Continued on page 7...
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Continued from page 6... Perhaps, after such an unhappy topic, it is best to end on a positive note. Recently, researchers have been focusing on ways to increase well -being following traumatic brain injury. Leisure activities seem to be of utmost importance, particularly those which involve social interaction; friends, teammates, and even cheerful acquaintances all make a positive contribution to well-being simply by being around. Those hobbies which the patients excelled at tended to be the most beneficial; confidence and self- reliance are fantastic mood-boosters. To feel capable is to feel good; as a side effect, these self- assured patients tended to have higher life satisfaction and marital satisfaction. It's no wonder they ranked their own well-being so highly. Such happiness should not be denied to anyone. Some might require extensive psychotherapy and antidepressants to gain a more positive outlook on life; these are useful treatments and should be seen as no different from treatment for diabetes or asthma. Others can keep in good spirits by getting out into the world, participating, contributing. The end goal is the same: happiness is attainable, however winding the path may be.

Brain Basics
Centennial Room Stanley Milner Library , Edmonton AB (main library on Churchill Square) June 12, 2013 from 12 1 pm Please RSVP to Shamim @ (780)477-7575.

How will our guys fare as Inmates at Edmontons New Remand Centre? >>>
By Louise Jensen, Operations Manager

It may not be a complete surprise for readers of BCCs

Headlines newsletter to hear that BCC provides services to inmates at the Remand Centre. The new Edmonton facility found on the northern edge of Edmonton at 18415 127th Street, is equipped to handle 1,952 inmates. Over the last four days of March, the public were invited to tour during its last days without inmates. And thousands of people wanted to see for themselves; easily double the visitors expected by Remand staff. BCCs staff, Julie Hanson, Louise Jensen and Grant MacEwan Social Work practicum student Caroline also lept at the offer to tour, attaining a rare opportunity to see where clients would be calling from as they await court proceedings. Coming out of the tour, our expectation is that when the 1400 current inmates are transferred over to the new facility, conditions will greatly improve for remanded clients. Here are the five key improvements noted: 1. Exhaustive use of technologies - closed- circuit TV 1450 video cameras in the facility. Video visits only to family/friends thus less circulation of contraband in the Centre. Visits to courts, nearly fifty of them in Alberta, via 32 closed- circuit TV rooms. 2. End of triple bunking there are 1400 inmates moving into cell space for 1,952. 3. A HUGE facility but centralized into five pods, each with four smaller units that contain 72 cells. Each unit has three stories with 12 cells per level and a central guard desk per unit, but also amenities: food distribution, tables/chairs, telephones; outdoor exercise room, video links to a visitor centre and noteworthy on line access ports. Through a port, inmates swipe their wrist bands to access personal legal files and information, as well as useful internet sites which can aid in contacting health supports, legal suggestions and the like.

4. Lots of ability for the Corrections staff to provide privileges, and remove them as well. 5. The opportunity to receive medical help by visiting the Remands very own, on site Alberta Health Services clinic where detox, x-ray and bone setting, cut/bite cleansing and stitching, or recovery from illness are possible. What happens when one of BCCs clients is charged and remanded? If their brain injury is on their AHS charts, and they exhibit behaviours which may cause them difficulty with others in the general population, they will likely be placed in the unit dedicated to those with mental health issues. This would be greatly to their benefit, according to the Remand staffer we spoke to, as there they would receive daily visits from psychologists and social workers, and their medications will be administered appropriately. It is in this sort of controlled environment where those with acquired brain injury actually manage better. With Alberta investing over half a billion dollars into this state of the art facility, we feel optimistic that the New Remand can provide better outcomes for both those staying and those working there. BCCs Julie Hanson, who leads the SUBI group, is certain that she will soon be back working her way through the maze to the right interview rooms, helping out our guys who end up there.

For more insights on the offerings of the new facility from Edmonton Journal writer Elise Stolte visit http:// www.edmontonjournal.com/news/edmonton/ Grandmothers+children+turn+Edmonton+Remand+Centre+to ur/8110664/story.html

Source: http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/edmonton/Edmonton+remand+centre+safer+corrections+staff+Justice/8122827/story.html

Profile >> Valerie Oczkowski

Valerie Oczkowski, our featured Breakfast speaker, was born and raised in Calgary with her twin and two other sisters. She grew up in a close-knit family and went to Bishop Grandin High School. During high school she joined her sisters, Judi & Joanne, working at a hard ware store, with nuts, bolts, screws and fasteners and she even learned to drive a forklift. Revelstoke never knew what hit them! She just loved it! It was apparent even back then that she had a thirst for knowledge and loved to share that knowledge with those she knew. Upon completion of her High School Diploma she joined a Modeling Agency and began modeling. Valerie also began studying Engineering and Geology at Mount Royal College. She eventually joined Fluor Canada Engineering to get a true sense of the industry; she was the only girl on the entire office floor and soon realized it just wasnt for her. Fortunately for us, Isometric Drawings were not her future. She continued modeling with Elegance Modeling and moved to Edmonton to continue her career. But Valerie maintained a passion for reading and learning about current events. Searching for a solid career that fit her personality and wanting to do something more relevant in life, she enrolled in the Radio & Television Arts Program at NAIT. Here, she found her true calling. Her television practicum was with ITV Lethbridge. After completing her practicum, she was hired by RDTV in Red Deer as the late night anchor and weather girl. Less than one year later well-known CFRN News Director Steve Halinda called and offered her a great opportunity to work on a business show on CFRN Edmonton. different people and get to the truth behind every story, but even better was the opportunity to share the news with the entire City. In 1993 CFRN promoted her to People Helper; a few years later CTV renamed the segment to what we all know now as Consumer Watch and it quickly became Valerie Oczkowskis Consumer Watch program. She assisted thousands of disgruntled Edmontonians to resolve unfortunate situations. Valerie kept up to date on product reviews and ratings and was the go- to -girl in solving almost any sticky situation. It was a perfect match; she loved helping people and consumers loved calling her for help. journalists, repay people? We tell stories. " says CTV news director Glenn Kubish. The Glenrose Hospital together with NABIS (Northern Alberta Brain Injury Society) became an important part of Valeries life. Their support and understanding was unconditional. Valerie claims at times even my family didnt understand my condition People often don't realize that families need as much education as patients do. Valerie adds this is one area that Brain Care Centre offers tremendous support. Valerie has embraced this great organization and believes people need to know more about them. Through her miraculous experience, Valerie empathizes with people with brain injuries. She states; There is a stigma and it has to be broken. We are everywhere and even though some of us appear high functioning, there is a process to recovery and we need understanding, help and empathy to get there. Brain Care Centre offers this, they are truly invaluable. She continues: we will all know someone with a brain injury or a disorder at some point in our lives, its best to prepare now and help where you can. Val has been on a long road to recovery, a path filled with challenges and uplifting circumstances. Today she shares her intensely personal story as a keynote speaker; a story which will no doubt change your perception of life and inspire you. Helping and caring for people, whether through sharing her health challenges and experiences, or offering consumer advice, remain Oczkowskis passion. We welcome her as our keynote speaker at our 22nd Annual Brain Injury Awareness Month Breakfast !
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There is a stigma and it has to be broken.

In the fall of 2006, Valerie began feeling ill; she was not herself. She'd been irrational, aloof, anti-social. There were quiet roomers beginning to surface about her behaviour. Was it because of alcohol abuse or perhaps misuse of prescription drugs? She further realized that her behaviour changes were starting to get her into trouble. Her condition was getting worse, and Val in turn was becoming more and more reclusive. Friends who were closet to Val knew she needed help, whatever the reason. In the spring of 2007, a brain scan revealed a significant physical problem. The medical tests found a Brain Tumor. With her family and dear friends at her side, Valerie began the fight that would change her life forever. After the surgery, back to her normal, cheerful self, Val did the most It was not long after that Valerie was courageous thing. "She wanted to pay back her friends, moved into the News Room. She family, neurosurgeon Dr. Max Findlay loved the new opportunity, as it and his team and How do we this, as allowed her to meet so many

Edmonton, Alberta

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(Edmonton)

May 2013
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

YAG : Young Adult Group SUBI: Brain Injury and Addictions Group

1 Mens Group 1:30-3pm 8 Club Connect 1:30-3pm 15 Mens Group 1:30-3pm

2
Self Esteem 1:30pm- 3pm Caregivers 7 -9pm SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

3 Womens Group 10-11:30am 10 Womens Group 10-11:30am 17

6 Self Esteem Workshop

Leduc Stroke and Recovery Association 7pm-8:30pm

7 Self Esteem 1:30pm3pm Caregivers Skills Training 7pm-9pm

9
Self Esteem 1:30pm- 3pm SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

13

14
Caregivers Skills Training 7pm-9pm

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YAG 7 - 9pm Caregivers 7 -9pm SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

******************************* Brain Care Centre Wellness Week **************************

20 Victoria Day

21 Stress & Worry

1:30pm-3pm Caregivers Skills Training 7pm-9pm 28 Stress & Worry 1:30pm-3pm Caregivers Skills Training 7pm-9pm

OFFICE CLOSED
27

22 Mens Group 1:30-3pm

23

24 Stress & Worry 1:30pm- Womens Group 10-11:30am 3pm

29 Club Connect 1:30-3pm

30
Stress & Worry 1:30pm3pm SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm YAG 7 - 9pm Caregivers 7 -9pm

31 BCC BIAM Breakfast 7am-8:30am Ramada Inn & Conference Centre

June 2013
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

6 Memory & Attention

1:30pm-3pm

Memory & Attention 1:30pm-3pm

Mens Group 1:30-3pm 12Club Connect 1:30-3pm Brain Basics 12-1pm @ Stanley Milner Library

SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm AABIS Artist Reception 6-8pm Nina Haggerty

7 Womens Group 10-11:30am The BIG Brunch Edson 11am-1pm

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11

13
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

14 BIAM Education
Day, Glenrose Rehab. Hospital 9am-12pm

Caregivers 7-9pm YAG 7-9pm

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18 19 Dr. Gabor Mate, Hinton Mens Group AB 7pm9pm 1:30-3pm

20
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

21 Professional Development Day

OFFICE CLOSED
24 25 26 Club Connect 1:30-3pm BCCs AGM 630- 8pm Bill Black Auditorium, GRH 27
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

28
BIAM Community Picnic, Kenilworth Community Hall 11am-2pm
12

YAG 7-9pm Caregivers 7-9pm

July 2013
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

1 Canada Day Office Closed

8

4 SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

Mens Group 1:30-3pm 9 10 Club Connect 1:30-3pm 11

SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

5 Womens Group 10-11:30am 12

YAG 7-9pm Caregivers 7-9pm

15

16

17 Mens Group 1:30-3pm 24 Mens Group 1:30-3pm

18
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

19 Womens Group 10-11:30am 26

22

23

25
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

YAG 7-9pm

29

30

31 Club Connect 1:30-3pm

YAG : Young Adult Group

SUBI: Brain Injury and Addictions Group

August2013
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

SUBI: Brain Injury and Addictions Group

1
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

2 Womens Group 10-11:30am 9

5 Civic Holiday

Office Closed
12 13

7 Mens Group 1:30-3pm 14 Club Connect 1:30-3pm 21 Mens Group 1:30-3pm 28 Club Connect 1:30-3pm

8
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

Caregivers 7-9pm

15
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

16 Womens Group 10-11:30am 23

19

20

22
SUBI 3:15 -4:30pm

26

27

29 BCC Brain Matters 30 Charity Golf Tournament 7am-2pm

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BCC Services >>>

Service Coordination: Brain Care Centre coordinates services for individuals (aged 18 or older) and families who are affected by brain injury. Our service area not only includes the greater Edmonton region but also communities west of the city including Drayton Valley, Edson, Hinton and Jasper. During the intake meeting, the Service Coordinator and the client identify areas of need in which service provision will be required. The outcome of the intake meeting is to formulate an Individual Service Plan (ISP) which serves to assist people with injury to connect with community resources and services. Some common goal areas include:
Housing Financial Education Health Vocation Cognitive strategies Physical health Adjustment support

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: Our rehabilitation professionals assist clients and families with managing cognitive changes after brain injury. Focus is on enabling participation in the community and independence in life. Therapists meet individually with participants to set goals and work on skill development and applying strategies in real-life situations. Goal areas may include using public transit, self-care skills and more. Formal assessments help staff create tailored plans with clients. These include independent living skills, cognitive ability, general ability, memory, vocational interest, social and communication skills, and performance in domestic activities. Referral to community rehabilitation services can be made through a Brain Care Centre Service Coordinator.

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: This four session course is designed to offer information to individuals with acquired brain injury who are interested in learning more about the brain, brain injury and strategies for positive living. 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.

Effective Communication: This course will discuss how brain injury can affect Social skills training communication and social skills. You will Co- existing diagnoses learn about types of communication, Advocacy effective listening, and perspective taking. Practical strategies for conflict Support Facilitation: To further enhance Information & Education: Brain Care resolution and assertiveness will be and support an ISP, Brain Care Centre Centre offers comprehensive, up- totaught and practiced in this 6-class offers a Support Facilitation program. date information related to the effect of course. This service includes one to one brain injury on individuals, families and counselling sessions designed to assist the community. Please contact the Memory & Attention: Does your individuals, couples and families with office for information on how to memory need a boost? Do you find it discovering and utilizing resources and arrange an education session. hard to pay attention or concentrate? strategies for maximizing wellness after This two day workshop provides Brain Basics: An Evening of Education brain injury. This process may include a practical suggestions for how to and Understanding is a course offered manage changes in memory and review of intake information, identifying once per month to parents, spouses, attention after brain injury or stroke. personal strengths and needs for caregivers, siblings, friends of people Open to new and returning clients. support, goal setting, and information

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Groups
Womens Group: Focuses on issues related to women, health and wellness, and provides opportunities for peer support. Members of this group will have the opportunity to explore the many successes and challenges associated with living with brain injury. Mens Group: A peer support group for adult males with acquired brain injury. This group focuses on issues related to health and wellness, changing roles, employment issues as well as the grief and loss associated with brain injury. Young Adult Groups: The Young Adult Groups (YAG) are for young adults between the ages of 18 and 30. These groups focus on support, personal growth and community inclusion. In collaboration with Networks Activity Centre, these groups include a recreational component. Brain Injury and Addictions Group (S.U.B.I.): Club CONNECT Communication Group: This group promotes peer connection, healthy living and provides opportunities for discussion. Come and join us for a lively hour and a half of learning and discussion. Snacks provided!

Electronic Devices Assistance

Community Living Program Computer training and 1-1 assistance with iPhone, iPad, and most other personal electronic devices. Group classes include Facebook, Skype, Internet Safety and Identity Theft. Please contact Jean, Community Living Coordinator at 780- 477- 7575 ext. 26 for more information. 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. Space is limited so please register early. Dates may be subject to change. Please see the calendar for specific dates.

Workshops
Time Management: Participants whose time management skills have been affected by a brain injury will learn new strategies and techniques to improve their current time management systems as well as new systems as needed. Expressive Art Therapy: This group uses art, music and photography as mediums to help clients work through issues surrounding grief and loss. Stress and Worry: This group offers strategies to help clients develop more effective coping skills.

Caregiver Skills Training This support group is for individuals living with the effects of brain injury and Workshop: This four week who are having some problems due to interactive workshop is drug or alcohol use. designed to educate caregivers Caregivers Group: on how to help their loved one This group is designed for caregivers to become more independent in who are providing support to someone functional activities. The who has sustained a brain injury. Peer methods you will learn are support is encouraged to assist researched based and widely caregivers in developing a stronger used and trusted by sense of their ability to cope and feel professionals. connected with others experiencing similar challenges.

Drayton Valley BI Group First and Third Monday of each month at Mitchs #102 4341 50 Street, Drayton Valley 1:00pm- 3:00pm Edson Support Group First and third Wednesday of each month at Brain Care Centre Edson office 524- 50 Street, Edson 1:00pm 3:00pm 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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Upcoming Events >>>

JUNE IS Brain Injury Awareness Month BIAM
Building Capabilities after Brain Injury / Stroke

Brain Care Centre presents: the 22nd Annual BIAM Kickoff Breakfast May 31, 2013 7:00am 8:30am Ramada Inn & Conference Centre 11834 Kingsway NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 3J5 Tickets: $45.00 RSVP by May 21, 2013 Guest Speaker: Valerie Oczkowski Emcee: Marni Kuhlmann, CTV News Anchor For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.braincarecentre.com Sponsored by James H. Brown & Associates Media Sponsor: CTV News BCC Edson & Reflections present: The BIG Brunch June 7, 2013 11:00am 1:00pm Edson Recreation Complex; Edson, AB Tickets: $45.00 RSVP by May 31, 2013 Guest Speaker: Dr. Garnet Cumming Emcee: Patti Shea Morning Goddess, The Eagle
Radio Edson, Hinton, Jasper and Grande Cache, Alberta

For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.braincarecentre.com Sponsored by Conoco Phillips Media Sponsor: The Eagle Edson 94.3 August 29 2013 Brain Care Centre presents: the Inaugural BRAIN MATTERS Charity Golf Tournament! August 29, 2013 8:00am2:00pm Lewis Estates Golf Course, Edmonton, AB $175.00 per person For more details on upcoming events contact Andrea, Events Coordinator at 780477- 7575 Ext 28 or via email at events@braincarecnetre.com
Stay connected via Twitter for all upcoming events! @BrainCareCentre Like us on Facebook www.edmontonBIAM.com

What Up Wednesdays
Social media is such a powerful tool to spread the word on important social issue s. In our effort to bring awareness of brain injury and stroke to our community at large we are launching a new social media campaign for Brain Injury Awareness month. Starting May 22 Brain Care Centre will be facebook) as part if our awareness posting a fact, statistic or other relevant information in 140 characters or less on twitter (and campaign for BIAM in June. What UP Wednesdays will be post s sent out to the universe every Wednesday morning with information about acquired brain injury as it relates to us here in Alberta. The idea is to have our twitter followers engage in the Wednesday tweets by retweeting or commenting on our facebook page. so more people see and hear about us. We want BIAM2013 to trend in northwestern Alberta so join us every Wednesday, follow us @BrainCareCentre and like us on facebook. Retweet and reply... start the trend for BIAM 2013!
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BCC Edson News >>>

By Tannis Arsenault, Service Coordinator
Brain Care Centre Edson is proud to announce our Event Sponsor for the inaugural BIG Brunch happening June 7, 2013 at the Eds on Recreation Complex in Edson, Alberta. Thank you to Conoco Phillips for their contribution and commitment to helping those impacted by brain injury in the Yellowhead region. This e vent presented by Brain Care Centre and Reflections in Edson, will feature keynote speaker Dr. G arne t Cummings. He will speak about his experience of surviving a near -fatal car accident and how his life has been transformed. For the past two years Dr. Cummings has served as Executive Director at Brain Care Centre. The event will also feature CFXE -FM 94. 3 The Eagle morning show host Patti She a as our special guest emcee. We hope to you see there! BCC Edson will be participating in the Dr. Duncan Murray Safety Fair on June 05 th 201 3 in Hinton, AB! The S afety Fair in Hinton has been running for approximately ten years and BCC Edson has participated every year providing information about our services and br ain injury to over 2,000 people whom visit the BCC display booth. The Brain Care Centre booth has a large display and a separate table for the The Brain Game Wheel to grab peoples attention. BCC staff have visitors, mostly children, spin the wheel and land on various pictures which ind icate the many potential results of brain injury. This interactive game and large display is a great tool for generating a lot of talk about safety habits, we aring helmets and s afe play. This year the Fair happens on June 5th, right at the beginning of Brain Injury A wareness Month so the timing is perfect. Each ye ar the Safety Fair brings in new clients to our agency from all over our service are a of Edson, Hinton and Jasper. We extend our community capac ity building through the contacts that we make and strengthen at the fair. If you are in Hinton on June 5 th, do stop by; we guarantee you will learn a lot and you may even take home a prize or two!

Networks News >>>

Networks would like to extend a HUGE thank you for all the support from everyone who donated to and attended our first annual Spring Fling event. We were able to raise over $5000 and will be able to purchase new tables and chairs for the Centre! Networks looks forward to the summer months and will be co hosting our annual Bar- B-Q with Stroke Recovery Association on June 28th at Kenilworth Community Hall. Tickets will be sold for $2 and will go on sale May 31st out of Networks. Please contact KRiS for tickets 780-474 3363. If you or someone you know may be interested in attending programs at Networks, please call Chelsea for more information or to book a tour.

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Theres an APP for That!! >>> Need A Reminder? >>>

By Chr istine Gertz, Online Volunteer

productivity apps and it is available in both free and a for-fee premium version. Daily Routine, which is available only as a paid app, allows users to create repeatable routines that can be Evernote is probably one of the most distributed over several days, weeks or popular note taking apps and it works months. Single routines, a distinct on iOS and Android devices, as well as routine for a specific day, can also be desktop computers. You can write or created. The system is a little record notes, take pictures and make complicated to set up, but the service screen captures of what is on your offers several videos on their website computer screen to store for access showing how to edit and adapt the later. Evernote has a very simple word routines for their calendar. The Daily processing program, so though you Routine calendar will sync with the iOS cant make sophisticated documents calendar and it works on both iPhones on it, you can take notes and share and iPads. them with others. Evernote also allows you to group associated notes, as well When overwhelmed by selection, it is as pictures and recordings, into easy to forget what you originally went notebooks. Each note can be sorted to the grocery store for. You can make with tags that provide a simple filing a grocery list using Evernote and share system. In addition to the note taking it with your partner or family system, Evernote also produces a web members. If you share shopping clipping plugin which allows users to duties, you can use OurGroceries, store web pages and sections from the which lets you share a list with a page, which can help with research, as partner, so if you forget something or well as a program called Skitch or need to add an item for the other taking pictures that you can doodle on shopper, you can edit a shared list. with memory prompts. Evernote is OurGroceries works on iOS, Android probably one of the most well- known and Blackberry. The very clever http:// Remembering tasks and items can be a huge challenge. The following apps are useful for general note taking, scheduling, groceries and passwords.

buymeapie.com/Buy Me a Pie works on the same premise but it also has support for 8 languages other than English, though it is only available on iOS devices. If you have a hard time remembering passwords, especially if you have made more secure passwords, take a look at Passwordgear. Available for iPhone, and on iPad, you create a secure password on the app and the app teaches you the password by using an associative story. Passwordgear prompts you with a series of images that are related to your password and can be deciphered into your complex password. For example, if your first letter of your password is C, Passwordgear prompts you with the image of a cowboy, as in C for cowboy. The next item in the chain could be a verb or another noun based on the original story you created. Passwordgear does rely on stereotypes and encourages the users to make outrageous stories to remember the passwords, but if the app can help you remember secure passwords, the increased security might be worth the ridiculous factor.

BCC Celebrates its Second Birthday! >>>

On April 1st, 2013 Brain Care Centre turned two years old. To celebrate we had an ice cream social/open house to share with our clients and community members. Thanks to all who participated!

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Continued from page 4... Every maneuver performed in an extreme sport is an accomplishment of the body and mind. The trick is learned by an athlete by challenging their limitations, both in terms of what the body is capable of doing and what the mind is capable of realizing. Once a trick or maneuver is determined as possible by an athlete, the athlete then needs to test this theory. The only way to see the trick through is to put the body at risk. Perhaps this explains why we are now, rather than 10 years ago, dealing with what might be considered a crisis. 10 years ago, when extreme sports were still at their early stages, the level of progress was not the same as it is today. Tricks were not as difficult and the standard did not demand the sheer velocity and height of the maneuver, nor the difficulty. As such, the risk and the danger inherent to the sports have increased by volumes. Not only this, but helmets, though increasingly being worn, are still not as commonplace as they should be. In short, what needs to

change is the culture within the sports themselves, which is as tricky as it gets in terms of problems to be addressed because the culture doesn't like to be told from outside what to do. There is a current of counter culture that runs through the core of these sports. However, this stubbornness has to somehow come to grips with the reality that ignoring the facts is putting individual lives and well being at risk. It seems that the growing problem of brain injuries in extreme sports, then, must be addressed on many levels. On the one hand it needs to be addressed culturally, from within the group itself. More role models and professionals, who the aspiring young participants look up to, need to become ambassadors and promote safety and the wearing of protective equipment. On the other hand, at the professional level committees and protocols need to be established so that young professionals like Kevin Pearce have an outlet and a channel to go through to avoid being put in a situation where they are competing

while still suffering from post concussion effects. After all, if the decision to compete is left solely up to the athlete who is competing for a spot in the Olympics, as in the case of Kevin Pearce, many athletes will not heed the advice of their body, their head or even their doctor. Unless regulations are put in place akin to those in the NHL and NFL, athletes will continue to be at risk and devastating brain injuries will continue to occur at alarming rates.
Referces: The USA Today, Head Injuries Rising Danger for Snowboarders, Skiers. Published, February 26, 2013. Online at: ww.usatoday.com/ story/sports/olympics/201 3/02/25/ snowboarders -skiers -kevin -pearce -concern concussions/1947593/ Stone, Paul for the Neurological Rehabilitation Institute at Brookhaven Hospital, Extreme Winter Sports Need Brain Injury Regulation. Published, February 26, 201 3. Online at: http://www.traumaticbraininjury.net/ extreme-winter -sports -need-brain -injury regulation/ The Knowledge Network, Wipeout. Online at: http://www.knowledge.ca/program/wipe out-stories -of-brain -injury

STOP THE STIGMA! BIAM 2013

Building capabilities means that individuals develop skills that enhance their independence and quality of life. This results in increased self-concept, increased feelings of self control, improved mental well being, and meaning of life.

Its about perspective. Its about focusing on what we can do and what we do have. Its about seeing the glass half full. Its about perseverance, its about redefining, its about accepting life as it is although it may not have been the plan. Its about priorities and seeing where the real value in life lies. It can happen to anyone at any given moment. Please see us in love and dont judge us in fear.

I w ould say that br ain injury is one of those injuries that is very difficult to understand by many people including mys elf. It is hard to understand because it comes in so many forms, mild to sever e. Someone could be suffering w ith this injury and everyone could see Brain Injury and Stroke are devastating him/her as nor mal. No one r eally w ants to be injuries, which takes a huge determination to identified or associated w ith this kind of injury in rebuild oneself. The acceptance of community the first place. Our society needs to be educated in this journey is critical. on the natur e of brain injury and how our response s hould be tow ards people affected w ith Building Capabilities: As a BI Survi vor i t means building the brain injury (support, compass ion and guidance). We need to talk neuro pathwa ys to replace the damaged ones, enabling me about it everyw here and every time not just a single month ev en though it is not bad to start ther e. So organiz ing w orkshops, training to regain my competence and functionality. The survi vor becomes capable. As a member of the Communi ty, i t means sessions, doing public speaking about w hat the injury is and how it affects many individuals in our society as a means of gathering tha t there a re programs and structures in pla ce to enable support for funding from the authorities but also making ev eryone persons wi th disabilities to be pa rt of my community. The becomes aw are of it, is actually w hat I w ould say it ( Br ain Injury community becomes capable. Aw areness Month) means to me.

Check out http://www.youtube.com/user/braincarecentreyeg

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Volunteers Rock!!
Brain Care Centre is so thankful for our amazing volunteers and their contributions to our organization. Last year, over 3200 volunteer hours were recorded. WOW! What a successful first year for the volunteer program. To celebrate this awesome achievement, we decided to start an annual recognition event to say thank you to all those generous enough to donate themselves to our cause. The Superhero Social is our way of giving back to our greatest supporters! The inaugural Superhero Social was held during National Volunteer Week on Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 and we are happy to report it was a great success. Awards were presented to Nathan LaRoche for Outstanding Service to BCC, Hanhmi Huynh and Justin Quedado as Leaders of Tomorrow and an honorable mention to Cat McDonald for her amazing work with BCC. Thank you to all those who participated and to those who were there in spirit. You are all so special to us and we appreciate you!

Leader of Tomorrow Award Winners Hanhmi Huynh & Justin Quedado

A special Thank You to Julie Hanson for cre ating the amazing photo booth backdrop, Alina Stinson and Michelle Furlong for taking photographs, all of our door prize donors, and Aldon Brewer and Ido van der Laan for providing the awesome tunes, Graeme Bell for speaking, and the Brain Care Centre Staff for all their support. 20

Brain Care Centre Annual General Meeting June 26th, 2013 Dr. Bill Black Auditorium (GRH) 6:30pm-8:00pm Snacks provided Everyone Welcome!

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)

$100 $200 $270 $400 $800

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

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 hosted on our website (www.braincarecentre.com) and posted on our social media sites.

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Brain Care Centre acknowledges the gracious ongoing support from:

Alberta Health Services; Alberta Human Services Disability Policy and Supports Division, ATCO I- Tek Epic Committee, City of Edmonton Community Services, Royal Alexandra Hospital - Employees' Charitable Donations Fund Royal Alex Place Kathy and Kevin Whitham - for their facilitation of the 2013 City of Edmonton Property Tax Rebate, TELUS Employee Charitable Giving - Bruce Mathewson, University of Alberta Hospital Staff Charities Committee, Edwin and Betty Brantlett, Tony and Linda Csilics, Wanda A. Despins, Warren Hurt, Sharon and William Kassian, F. Rose Lupul, Marguerite and Edward Redshaw, Eugene and Adeline Sapiuk, Douglas Semeniuk, Hilda Tsobanis.

Heartfelt thanks to the following who have designated Brain Care Centre through the United Way of Alberta Capital Region Campaign:
John Demers, Kathy Doan; Mr. & Mrs. David Duggan, Virginia Gillen, Soren Jensen, Dean McCurdy, Anton Mitrovic, Karen Reiter-Stecyk.

Brain Care Centre would like to thank the following for their generous donations to our Superhero Social:
100.3 The Bear, Alleykat Brewery, City of Edmonton, Community Services Department, Cafe DeVille, Cheesecake Caf, Comic Strip, ConocoPhillips, Cookies By George, Costco 154 Dr. Garnet Cummings, Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, Davids Tea, The Dish & Spoon, Fabutan, Famoso Downtown, Famoso St.Albert, FC Edmonton, GMCR Canada, Shirley Hall, International Cooling Tower, The Majeed Family, Old Strathcona Farmers Market, Rene Oswald, Andrea Papirny, Rapidfire Theater, Sweet Confetti, Mike Tremblay, Two12Social Co., Dale Ulrich

Donations were received to honour: Walter Semeniuk

Brain Care Centre Platinum Sponsor

Brain Care Centre Gold Sponsor

Human Services - Disability Polic y 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.

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Brain Care Centre #229 Royal Alex Place 10106 111 Ave Edmonton, AB, Canada T 5G 0B4 Phone: 780.477-7575 Fax: 780.474 .4415 Toll Free: 1. 800.4 25.5 552 e- mail:admin@braincarecentre.com www. braincarecentre.com or greater, BCC w ill issue a charitable r eceipt.

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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.

Contr ibutions are gratefully acknow ledged in BCCs Quarterly New sletter.
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