Warm interactions and a sunny walk – Brandon Rasman

On the bus toward Headway, I found my mind circulating with thoughts of TBI. My head randomly bounced around with scenarios of the potential accidents and consequences of the resulting injuries. How can an outsider even comprehend what the feeling must be like? Throughout the first half of this semester, I’ve been fortunate to learn a great deal about one of the most prevalent and complicated injuries. The presentations and examples we have been exposed to have certainly improved my understanding of brain injuries. However, there comes a point to where the material in class can only take you so far. There is simply no substitute for human interaction. In this case, interacting with the individuals who are actually LIVING with the disability.

Nearing the centre, I simplified my thinking. Taking a page from my previous volunteer experiences I told myself, “I’m here to spend quality time with soon-to-be friends, so enjoy the opportunity.” Furthermore, I was there to go on a walk! (one of my favourite pastimes). After that, it was just a manner of finding the location.

Upon entering the centre, I was greeted by a young woman. After introducing herself, she quickly decided that it was her responsibility to show me the ropes. She took it upon herself to introduce to me to everyone as well as present the different areas of the centre. I was quickly struck by layout of Headway. To me, the design is very unassuming and comforting. A pool table, arts & crafts table, TV lounge, computer room, kitchen, and nap room. Surely, I must have been in a club house.

I had arrived with time to spare and the walk was not for a while. This gave me a chance to play a few rounds with the ‘Maestro of Headway Pool’. We shared stories and laughs throughout our match. However, most of laughing was at the slow, meticulous victory by the Maestro at the expense of my pride. Around our third game, I was thinking about the casual nature of my interactions with the Maestro and the other members. There was no sense of having to ‘sugarcoat’ my words or actions. Everyone made me feel comfortable, which made it easier for me to connect with them. The welcoming disposition displayed by those at Headway was reassuring beyond words.

Now I should get to the walk before I finish. We were fortunate to have the sun shining throughout our stroll. We walked down in a group of six to Granville island. Along our trip, I had a chance to speak with a couple of the members I had not yet chatted with. One discussion that really stuck with me was with a young woman. She was explaining her occupation which she started only months ago, and the amount of travelling (via walk and transit) she must do every week. I did not know the severity of her injury, but I was nonetheless taken aback by her description. I found her independence truly inspiring.