A Journey of Resilience

Roxanne’s Story

My world shifted on that fateful day in 2018 when a bus accident left me with a concussion. At first, I couldn’t watch TV, use my phone, or even glance at my iPad without triggering headaches and vertigo. In a difficult moment, I found hope and support through the Brain Care Centre. Through counseling, occupational therapy, and a supportive community, I regained my footing. Now, back at work and feeling empowered, I credit the Brain Care Centre for my remarkable recovery.

A Story of Triumph

On January 18, 2018 I was on my way to work when the bus was hit. I slid across the bench seat and hit my head and was out for probably 20 to 30 seconds. I realized pretty quickly that I just felt different, and things didn’t feel right. It happened on a Thursday, and I went to work on Friday, but didn’t feel like myself. On Saturday I went to see the doctor and when I explained what had happened and how I was feeling, he confirmed it was a concussion.

In the beginning, I couldn’t do anything. I didn’t watch TV, didn’t look at my phone, couldn’t look at my iPad. It was just too much information going into my brain and when I tried to do anything, I would get an immediate headache and my vertigo would kick in. So for the first three months, I really didn’t do a lot. I learned about the Brain Care Centre from an adjuster who was working with me who suggested the BCC might help with some of the anxiety and cognitive issues I was experiencing. I had to wait a bit to be seen but once I did, it was helpful in so many ways. The support group has been amazing and helped me realize I wasn’t alone in this and that there are other people like me. I’ve been able to help people too, little things that I’ve learned that I’ve been able to pass on to others, and that’s made me feel less powerless.

After my concussion, there were times where I just felt “stupid.” I’m not, but it’s how I felt. I couldn’t think of the right words and couldn’t talk the way I used to, and I was experiencing a lot of anxiety and fear. At the Brain Care Centre I’ve been able to work with counsellors and occupational therapists, and had assistance with learning to use technology – it helped a lot. I wish I’d known about the Brain Care Centre in the first three months, when all I could do was sit in the dark. I’ve been back at work as an executive assistant since February 2020 and my employer has been very supportive. Working at home during COVID, I’ve gotten to be very self-reliant and I’m almost back to where I was before it all happened. I’m very thankful to the Brain Care Centre for helping me get here – it’s a great organization.

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day-in and day-out.”

-Robert Collier

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Dwayne’s Story

Apr 22, 2024 | Stories of Impact

Our idyllic life in Edmonton took a tragic turn when Dwayne was struck by a car. He was in a coma for weeks, and when he finally woke up, he had lost much of his memory. I suddenly became his full-time caregiver. With no income and feeling overwhelmed, we turned to the Brain Care Centre. Thanks to supporters like you, we were able to access vital programs, financial aid, and emotional support. Dwayne’s recovery has been challenging, but it became possible—a true testament to the impact of the Brain Care Centre.

Rawle’s Story

Apr 22, 2024 | Stories of Impact

My life took an unexpected turn during a self-esteem workshop. A sudden inability to write and slurred speech led me to the University of Alberta Hospital, where I learned I had suffered a stroke. After months of hospitalization and outpatient care, I found hope at the Brain Care Centre. Courses, one-on-one support, and occupational therapy transformed my life. Now, I volunteer by writing thank-you notes to donors—a testament to my resilience and the center’s impact.

This Time Was Different – Sheelagh’s Story

Apr 15, 2024 | Stories of Impact

In 1995, I survived a car accident caused by a drunk driver. My physical injuries eventually healed, but the impact on my brain lingered. Then in 2019, another accident made things worse, exacerbating my brain injury and leaving me with light sensitivity, mobility challenges, and memory impairments. Discovering the Brain Care Centre changed everything for me. Through counseling, support groups, and occupational therapy, I found understanding, acceptance, and peer support. Now, as a Learning and Development Specialist, I’m committed to ensuring others can benefit from Brain Care Centre programs. Your donation truly makes a difference in lives like mine.

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