Blog - Brainstreams

The Election is Called – Let’s Keep Brain Injury on the National Agenda

The federal election has been officially called for April 28, 2025. Over the next several weeks, political leaders will be talking about tariffs, global issues, and economic policies—all of which will dominate the headlines. But amidst all the noise, we cannot afford to let the conversation around brain injury fade into the background.

In the last Parliament, all political parties voiced their support for a National Strategy on Brain Injury. Now, with this election upon us, it’s time […]

Back to the Future by Debra Erickson

There’s the family, there’s the appointments and then there’s the accelerated world events of late. Your head spinning? Mine too! One thing for sure, as Bob Dylan sang, is: “The Times – They are a Changin’.”

My schedule doesn’t fully allow for it and recent aches and pains have had me doubting the plan, but I went ahead and booked a flight home to Terrace B.C. to visit family and check in on my 94-year-old dad.

Sometimes there’s no real purpose to the trip except it feels like an […]

A Tribute to John Simpson

To truly appreciate the power of advocacy in the brain injury community, we must recognize the profound impact John Simpson had on all of us. He paved the way for significant change, and it was an honour to have known him. Saying goodbye is heartbreaking.

John passed away on February 17, 2025, at the remarkable age of 89. How fitting that it was Family Day, as John was not only a cherished member of his own family but also a guiding figure—a ‘father’—to so many in the brain injury community.

Since 1982, John was a leading force in developing services for individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI) in British Columbia. His compassion […]

GF Strong Virtual Workshop Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury

Join G.F. Strong Rehabilitation for this informative virtual workshop. Registration is required. If family members are attending on different devices, please ensure each person registers individually. The link for the actual meeting will be sent directly to registrations. Click here or on the poster to register.

Brain Injury Results in the Tragic Death of Young Boxer

The tragic death of Irish boxer John Cooney serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of brain injuries. Cooney, a rising star in the boxing world, passed away following complications from a brain injury sustained during a match. His story is devestating, but not unique—athletes in contact sports continue to face life-altering consequences due to concussions and repearted head trauma.

This loss underscores the urgent need for increased awareness about the risks of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Whether in professional arenas or youth sports, we must prioritize prevention, research, and support for those affected.

Read more about John Cooney’s story here: CNN: John […]

New Research on Post-Traumatic Epilepsy

New Research Sheds Light on Post-Traumatic Epilepsy

An exciting international study has uncovered key insights into post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE), a condition that can arise after a traumatic brain injury. Conducted by researchers from FutureNeuro, the Research Ireland Centre for Translational Brain Science, and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the findings—published in Theranostics—highlight the critical role of the P2X7 receptor in the brain.

Curious to learn more? Read the full article to explore how […]

Oh Canada! by Debra Erickson

I’m pouring real Canadian Maple syrup on my pancakes this morning, listening to The Tragically Hip and wearing a toque.

Why? Because I’m Canadian! Not sure if you’ve been watching the news or not but never before has our identity as Canadians been threatened like it has in recent days.

I’m well aware of the two forbidden topics: politics and religion. Let’s consider this a healthy dialogue on well- being and leave it at that! Because really, that’s what it comes down to: moving in a positive direction despite everything going on around us.

It was about two years post-accident while I […]

Acquired Brain Injury Included in the Minister of Health’s Mandate Letter

We are very excited to report that acquired brain injury has been included in the BC Minister of Health’s mandate letter.

The inclusion of acquired brain injury (ABI) in the BC Minister of Health’s mandate letter is a significant milestone for several reasons:

Recognition of ABI as a Public Health Priority

Mandate letters outline the government’s core priorities and signal areas of focus for a minister’s term. By including ABI, the government explicitly acknowledges it as a critical public health issue, elevating its importance alongside other pressing concerns.

Policy and Funding Implications

Mandate letters often set the stage for policy development and […]

Independent Living Canada Festival and Event Accessibility Project

Independent Living Canada Festival and Event Accessibility Project is in the final stretch of gathering feedback and need your help!

The new Festival and Event Accessibility Quick Survey is open, and they are looking for input from Canadians with disabilities and those who support them. Your feedback is critical to shaping accessibility recommendations for festivals and events across Canada.

How You Can Help:

Complete the Quick Survey: It takes just 2–3 minutes and is completely anonymous.
Share it widely on social media, newsletters, listservs, and with your networks (volunteers, employees, members, and committees).
Spread the word […]

Life is Like a Box of Chocolates by Debra Erickson

We’re all familiar with Forrest Gump’s words in the 1994 movie “Life is like a box of chocolates.”

I have purged my cupboards from all tempting holiday treats. Some boxes of chocolate still had a few pieces remaining but out they went, temptation removed!

As I hang my new calendar for 2025, I look at twelve clean pages, void of scribbles plans or deadlines. I cautiously lift the lid off the new year, peering at the months, wondering what each one will hold?

I’m not a believer in New Year’s Resolutions. For many of us dealing with chronic pain and cognitive impairment, just getting out of bed some days is a triumph! I […]

Participants Needed for BC Caregiver Study

Santa’s Helpers Ensure Letters Reach the North Pole

Tracey Barry and Tina Marsh are on a mission to ensure the postal disruption does not stop children from sending their letters to Santa.

The heartwarming story, featured in the Sawatsky Sign-Off segment, highlights a group of dedicated volunteers, including Tina, Tracey, and the individuals they support in the March of Dimes Canada Day Program for brain injury survivors. Together, they embody the true spirit of giving during the holiday season.

These selfless individuals dedicate their time to assembling and delivering holiday cheer and creating a magical season for children. Their efforts demonstrate a profound commitment to community and kindness, ensuring no one feels forgotten during this special time […]

Sounds of the Season by Debra Erickson

Maybe it’s Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas” that gets your adrenaline going and your shopping list done. Brenda Lee singing “Rockin’ around the Christmas Tree” is the motivation I need to do my decorating. Of course, there’s the slow sipping of my eggnog tunes like Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” and Anne Murray’s “Silver Bells”.

Whatever your Holiday playlist, one thing’s for certain: music moves us! Regardless of what stage you’re at in brain injury recovery, music is a well proven therapeutic tool. I wouldn’t recommend Alvin and the Chipmunks if you’re struggling with brain confusion. Best to choose the Holiday fireplace channel and a much calmer […]

Letters to Myself by Debra Erickson

This month, on November 11th, we’ll take two minutes to pause, reflect on the sacrifice made by those who have served during times of conflict. I make a point each year of going through the old black and white photos I have of relatives who were in the army.

There’s an old photo from WW1 of my grandfather. He lied about his age so he could join the Canadian Army. After training camp, he was shipped overseas for a brief stop in England. The photo is taken as he sits next to a buddy looking down on the rest of the soldiers on deck. He […]

A Case of Mistaken Identity by Debra Erickson

I would have to say that nine times out of ten when I’m introduced to someone, they will say: “you look very familiar”. This is always followed by: where do you work? Where do you live? Are you related to …etc. I tell people I’m a twin, which is true so they automatically assume they must have seen my twin – until I tell them it’s my brother and he is much larger than me! It can be challenging to describe who we really are. I suppose I could be someone’s doppelganger, but I prefer to be known for who I really am!

This month there will be […]

Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Brain Injury

The purpose of this charter is to clearly outline, for people with brain injury, their families, caregivers, and care providers their inherent and unique rights to care and services.

This charter can be used by individuals and families to empower themselves when seeking care, by providers as principles for care, by others to educate the public and by policy makers to advocate for needed, respectful and accessible care and services.

This charter was created from information provided by more than 150 people with brain injury and their family members from across Canada. It is intended to be a ‘living document’ that will evolve as needed.

Your feedback is welcome on ways to use this charter, and any additions or modifications that would be […]

Provincial Strategy for Brain Injury Support and Advocacy Needed Now by Janelle Breese Biagioni

This post is in response to the recent announcement regarding involuntary care under the Mental Health Act. I want to acknowledge the thoughtful work that has gone into developing this important strategy, aimed at supporting individuals with complex mental health and addiction challenges, including those with acquired brain injuries. The goal of creating safer, healthier communities is one that we can all support.

However, it is crucial that the enforcement of involuntary care be reserved for only the most extreme circumstances. To truly address the challenges faced by individuals with brain injuries and concurrent disorders, we must find a balance between crisis response and preventative […]

Mind Those Margins by Debra Erickson

I see it coming, the month of September. Why do I hold my breath when I reach to turn the calendar forward to the next page? I think it’s because September is a lot like my storage closet under the stairs. If I could open it slowly, one day at a time, I could breathe easily. Instead, the next four months will tumble out like a giant Tsunami. School, Thanksgiving, Halloween, Christmas, music lessons, gym programs, soccer sign-ups. Enough to make one feel like you’re treading water for dear life!

My trips to the grocery store leave me in a blurred state of confusion. […]

On Friday, July 26, the world watched as the Olympic Games were officially opened in Paris, France. Two hundred and six countries are taking part. For the first time ever, the ceremonies took place outdoors. Ninety boats formed a parade down the Seine transporting 6,800 athletes over six kilometres of river.

It was indeed a grand beginning to the games. The exuberant mood of our Canadian athletes was wonderful to see. Not one person had yet entered into competition and that didn’t seem to matter. It was just the joy of taking part. It reminded me of what the spirit of the […]

Brain Injury After Overdose is a Hidden Epidemic

Dr. Mauricio Garcia-Barrera (UVic) and Cole Kennedy, PhD Student (UVic) address the ongoing toxic drug crisis as a hidden epidemic: brain injuries resulting from overdoses in this article.

Survivors of these overdoses often suffer from acquired brain injuries (ABI), leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges. Despite the prevalence, these injuries remain under-recognized and inadequately treated, leaving many without the necessary support and rehabilitation.

These researchers emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare strategies that address the complex needs of these individuals, highlighting the importance of increased awareness, early intervention, and integrated care to improve outcomes for survivors. Recognizing and treating brain injuries in […]

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