Author Archives: brasman92

After my first visit at Headway, I was excited for the next opportunity and knew those initial feelings of unknown and nervousness were now long gone.

We (a classmate and myself) arrived at Headway just before noon, as lunch was being prepared. A delectable dish of pasta was taken out of the oven of which I could not resist trying. There were several interesting conversations over lunch. One woman had just returned from China last week. During her time there she worked at a factory making clothing and other products. While she enjoyed her trip, she continually noted how the weather was far too cold and unpleasant. She was certainly glad to be back home!

With about 20 minutes to go before our journey (walk to Granville Island), I had enough time to engage a member in a battle of billiards. However, I should probably retract that description: it was a massacre. I played with a young women who had earlier described to me over lunch how her left hand and arm were partially paralyzed. Nevertheless, she was confident in her ability to defeat me in pool. She was 100% correct. While playfully teasing my inability to sink a single shot (it was an embarrassing performance) she successfully cleared the table. I was thoroughly impressed by the fine motor control she demonstrated. You would not have guessed that one of her hands had partial paralysis.

After the debacle of pool I demonstrated. I think this will be the next book I purchase.

We departed for our walk at 1:00 pm, with the task to return to Headway with some hand sized rocks that would be used for painting and decorating later on. The walking club at Headway is somewhat spread out. Some of the members like to lead the charge, leaving others about a half block behind. I spent the majority of my time in the front with a gentleman who takes almost every opportunity to join the walk on Wednesdays. This got me to thinking what kind of rehabilitation potential does walking have on TBI. Williams (2013) discusses how those suffering from brain injuries may be more likely to return to work if they regain the ability to walk confidently and effectively. The study also discusses how walking parameters may be good indicators for if the TBI patient will be able to engage in running or other high mobility activities. Walking is an everyday occurrence which everyone takes for granted. It involves a complex integration of neuromuscular control, respiratory congruence, and cardiovascular balance. A good walk: has been recommended as a therapy for symptoms like depression, confusion, and anxiety; encourages physiological harmony; and promotes overall health and wellness. Even the opportunity to journey and wander can work marvels for an individual. That’s why I was so glad that one member, who uses a wheelchair, decided to join us.

We all enjoyed the wonderful weather at Granville Island, and made sure we found plenty of rocks before returning to Headway.

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.