Traumatic Brain Injury

In 2007 my amazing and inspiring Mum fell and sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) amongst other terrifying and life-threatening injuries.

Our whole world changed that day. During the year that followed, I learned to navigate a world where people living with disability hit roadblock after roadblock. I discovered that our beautiful home city isn’t built for people living with disabilities. I also discovered I had a knack for getting through or around barriers to ensure that my family wasn’t disadvantaged by their situation.

We were told that my Mum wouldn’t qualify for entry to a brain injury rehabilitation facility due to the enormity of her injury. This intelligent and active individual was being categorised without assessment.

Challenge Accepted

I spent endless hours researching how to build a short term memory, balance, coordination and get Mum into rehab. Our family spent every waking minute of every day on our own version of rehab and within a couple of months we got there. Mum was assessed and started with a four-week trial at the rehab facility which turned into nine months and in little over a year from the fall, my Mum and Dad were reunited in their home, against all the odds.

TBI brings with it many challenges, not the least of which is a personality change. From being a polite and quiet person my mum could sometimes be inappropriate in conversation and for those who didn’t know her before her injury it could be an uncomfortable experience. As a close family who love spending time together, we found places to take my Mum that were easy to access physically and welcoming to all, including those with personality changes resulting from a TBI. Places with great staff who are attentive, respectful, fun and professional but not intrusive.

I have a list of these places and am happy to share.

My beautiful parents both passed away early in 2023. I was so privileged to have them in my life for so many years and honoured to be able to provide care and advocacy for them along the way.

I don’t judge individuals, I have high standards for inclusion and I never give up.