Executive Director, Lauren Holly sits down with Brian Murphy from Murph’s Talk Podcast
As Brain Injury Awareness Month is in full swing, The Brain Injury Association of Ohio’s Executive Director, Lauren Holly sat down with Brian Murphy of Murph’s Talk Podcast to talk about brain injury. You can listen to the episode at the link below.
2024 Calendar Raffle
Each ticket entry is eligible to win one of the prize packages listed (See Calendar Below for Prizes). Winning entries will be drawn each day in March and win the items listed for that day. Winners will be notified by phone or email. A list of the winners will be posted weekly on the BIAOH Facebook Page and website. Must be 18 years of age or older to win.
Congratulations to the Winners of our Daily Raffle!
March 1 - Jen Grim - $25 Costco Gift Card
March 2nd - Macee Marcum - $50 Walmart Gift Card
March 3rd - Kathy Pockett - $50 Outback Gift Card
March 4th - Gary Pockett - $50 Amazon Gift Card
March 5th - Adam Lee - $25 Kohls Gift Card and $50 Cash
March 6th - Karen Covert - $30 Red Lobster Gift Card
March 7th - John Ballard - $25 Panera Gift Card
March 8 - Steve Holly - Mystery Prize
Intimate Partner Violence and Brain Injury
Did you know that Intimate Partner Violence is linked to Brain Injury?
Studies indicate that a significant portion of individuals who experience domestic violence also suffer from traumatic brain injury (TBI). According to research published in the journal JAMA, up to 92% of survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) report experiencing at least one traumatic brain injury during the course of their abuse.
Recently one of our community partners, Rachel Ramirez at Ohio Domestic Violence Network sat down with Brian Murphy on his podcast Murph's Talk to share about the connection. You can listen to the episode at the link below.
2024 Calendar Raffle
Each ticket entry is eligible to win one of the prize packages listed (See Calendar Below for Prizes). Winning entries will be drawn each day in March and win the items listed for that day. Winners will be notified by phone or email. A list of the winners will be posted weekly on the BIAOH Facebook Page and website. Must be 18 years of age or older to win.
Congratulations to the Winners of our Daily Raffle!
March 1 - Jen Grim
Getting Ready for Brain Injury Awareness Month in Ohio
As we get ready to celebrate Brain Injury Awareness Month in March, there is so much going on. We are going to spend the month of March celebrating the resiliency of the brain injury community and spreading awareness of the needs of our community. There's still time to sign up and join in the celebrations happening next month!
Registration for the Brain Injury Awareness Day at the Ohio Statehouse is still open, with one more virtual training event coming up on February 23, 2024.
We're also inviting submissions for our upcoming art exhibit, and tickets are on sale for our Resilient Minds: Artistry after Injury event.
Tickets are still on sale for our Calendar Raffle, where we will be drawing a winner every day throughout the month. With many days having double prizes, it's a great way to celebrate and support our programs and services.
Our new Podcast Club launches March 1st with two great podcasts highlighting resiliency.
We are launching our Social Media Toolkit for Brain Injury Awareness Month with graphics and messaging to share on your social media for the month of March.
Now is a great time to get engaged and spread the word!
Thank you for your support; we could not do it without you!
The Brain Injury Association of Ohio Team
Celebrate Brain Injury Awareness Month with us with a raffle every day in March!
Each ticket entry is eligible to win one of the prize packages listed (See Calendar Below for Prizes). Winning entries will be drawn each day in March and win the items listed for that day. Winners will be notified by phone or email. A list of the winners will be posted weekly on the BIAOH Facebook Page and website. Must be 18 years of age or older to win.
Join us at our 2024 Ohio Brain Injury Advocacy Day and
help spread awareness of the impact of brain injury in Ohio.
For more information contact Patti Powers at
614-481-7100 or ppowers@biaoh.org.
Social Media Toolkit
In order to spread the word about Brain Injury Awareness Month we have created a Social Media Toolkit. The toolkit provides resources for you to spread the word. There are social media templates, graphics, press releases, and letters to the editor are included.
Winter Safety: Preventing Falls and Head Injuries to Keep Your Brain Healthy
As the winter months descend upon us, we must be mindful of the increased risks associated with falls and head injuries. Falls are the number one cause of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Ohio, and winter weather definitely increases our risk! Slippery sidewalks, icy driveways, and snow-covered pathways pose significant dangers. However, there are ways to enjoy winter and stay safe. Here are some essential tips to navigate the winter season safely and prevent falls that could lead to head injuries.
Stay Informed and Plan Ahead: Check local weather forecasts before going out and be aware of icy conditions. Plan your outings when the weather is more favorable, and consider rescheduling if conditions are hazardous. If you must go out during inclement weather, ensure your route is well-maintained and has minimal ice and snow.
Wear Appropriate Footwear: Invest in winter boots with good traction to reduce the risk of slipping. Look for shoes with non-slip soles, and consider using ice grips or traction cleats for additional stability. Make sure your footwear fits properly to provide adequate support and comfort.
Keep Pathways Clear: If you are responsible for maintaining walkways around your home make it a priority to keep them clear of snow and ice. Regularly shovel snow and use ice melt or sand to create safe pathways. Consider installing handrails for additional support, especially on stairs or sloped surfaces.
Take Small Steps: Take small, deliberate steps to maintain balance when walking on slippery surfaces. Avoid rushing and allow extra time to reach your destination. If you encounter an icy patch, try to walk in areas with more traction, such as along the edges of sidewalks.
Use Assistive Devices: If you have a history of balance issues or are prone to falls, consider using assistive devices such as a cane or walker. These tools can provide added stability and support, reducing the likelihood of slipping or falling.
Be Mindful of Indoor Hazards: Winter safety is not limited to outdoor spaces. Be cautious of wet floors near entrances, as melted snow can create slippery conditions. Place absorbent mats or rugs near entryways to prevent indoor slips and falls.
Stay Active and Maintain Strength: Regular exercise helps improve strength, balance, and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Consider incorporating indoor activities, such as yoga or tai chi, into your routine to maintain flexibility and stability throughout winter.
Winter brings unique challenges, but with careful planning and proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falls and head injuries. By following these tips you can enjoy a safer and healthier winter season, protecting your brain and overall well-being. Stay informed, stay prepared, and prioritize winter safety for yourself and your loved ones.
Happy 2024: Setting New Goals in the New Year
Happy New Year!
As we welcome the promise of a new year, the Brain Injury Association of Ohio is excited to embark on a journey of growth, resilience, and the pursuit of new goals. For individuals living with a brain injury, the start of a new year provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on personal achievements, set realistic aspirations, and embrace the potential for positive change.
Reflecting on Progress
Celebrate Achievements: Take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the milestones, both big and small, that you achieved in the past year. Whether it's progress in rehabilitation, personal accomplishments, or moments of resilience, recognizing these achievements is a powerful motivator.
Identify Challenges and Lessons: Reflect on challenges faced throughout the year and consider the lessons learned. Understanding your strengths and areas for growth will help inform your goals for the coming year.
Setting Realistic Goals
Define Your Priorities: Clarify your priorities and identify areas of life where you want to see improvement. Whether it's in physical health, cognitive function, relationships, or personal development, having a clear vision will guide your goal-setting process.
Break Down Goals into Manageable Steps: Large goals can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. This not only makes the journey more achievable but also provides a sense of accomplishment with each milestone reached.
Empowerment Through Support
Engage with the BIAOH Community: The Brain Injury Association of Ohio is here to support you on your journey. Connect with our community, participate in support groups, join our Healthy Minds program, participate in an event and engage with resources that empower you to set and achieve your goals. Share your aspirations with others who understand the unique challenges of living with a brain injury.
Seek Professional Guidance: Consider reaching out to healthcare professionals, therapists, or rehabilitation specialists who can provide guidance and support in setting realistic and attainable goals. They can help tailor goals to your specific needs and abilities.
Embrace Flexibility and Resilience
Be Open to Adjustments: Life is unpredictable, and flexibility is key. Be open to adjusting your goals as needed, taking into account your evolving needs and circumstances.
Practice Self-Compassion: Progress may not always be linear, and setbacks may occur. Be kind to yourself and recognize that setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Embrace resilience and use challenges as opportunities for growth.
As we enter the new year, let us collectively embrace the spirit of possibility and resilience. The Brain Injury Association of Ohio is committed to supporting you on your journey toward achieving meaningful goals and fostering a sense of empowerment.
Wishing you a year filled with growth and resilience.
Navigating the Holidays with a Brain Injury: A Guide to Managing the Festivities
As the holiday season approaches, the joy and excitement in the air can be contagious. However, for those living with a brain injury, the holidays may bring a unique set of challenges. At the Brain Injury Association of Ohio, we understand the importance of providing support and resources to help our community navigate this festive season with grace and resilience.
Embrace a Mindful Approach
Set Realistic Expectations: Managing expectations is key during the holidays. Understand your limitations and communicate them to friends and family. Prioritize activities and choose those that align with your energy levels.
Create a Structured Schedule: Maintaining a routine can provide a sense of stability. Plan your days with breaks in between activities to prevent fatigue and overwhelm. Be sure to communicate your schedule to those around you to ensure a supportive environment.
Practice Self-Care: The holiday hustle and bustle can be demanding, so remember to prioritize self-care. Allow yourself moments of rest and relaxation, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed.
Communication is Key
Educate Your Loved Ones: Make sure those close to you understand your specific needs and challenges. Share information about your brain injury and let them know how they can offer support. Open and honest communication is crucial during this time.
Establish a Safe Space: Identify a quiet and comfortable space where you can retreat if the festivities become overwhelming. Having a designated area to regroup can help you manage sensory input and prevent sensory overload.
Navigate Social Situations
Choose Events Wisely: While it's tempting to attend every holiday gathering, prioritize events that align with your comfort level. Smaller gatherings or one-on-one interactions may be more manageable than larger crowds.
Use Assistive Devices: If you use assistive devices, make sure they are readily available and in good working condition. This could include mobility aids, communication devices, or any tools that enhance your daily life.
Plan for Sensory Sensitivities
Noise and Lights: Loud music, flashing lights, and crowded spaces can be overwhelming. Consider wearing noise-canceling headphones and sunglasses to mitigate sensory input. Communicate your needs to hosts and suggest alternatives for a more inclusive experience.
Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your dietary needs. If certain foods or drinks can trigger discomfort, communicate your preferences to those hosting or consider bringing your own snacks.
Reach Out for Support
Remember, you are not alone. Reach out to the Brain Injury Association of Ohio Helpline for resources, support, and a sense of community. Our team is here to help you navigate the holiday season with confidence and joy.
Wishing you a peaceful and joyful holiday season.
November News and Notes
As we enter this beautiful fall season, we find ourselves reflecting on the warmth and strength of our incredible community. November is a month of gratitude, and at the Brain Injury Association of Ohio, we are immensely thankful for the unwavering support of our volunteers, donors, constituents, and the broader community.
We have had a tremendously busy last few months with our Cere-bration Walks, our TBI Summit, and our Evening with Bernie Kosar. Thank you to all who volunteered, sponsored, participated, and cheered us on.
As we gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving in a couple of weeks, let us also celebrate the spirit of giving that defines our community. Thank you for being an integral part of the Brain Injury Association of Ohio. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by brain injuries.
Wishing you a November filled with warmth, gratitude, and moments of joy.
With heartfelt thanks,
The Brain Injury Association of Ohio Team
2023 Brain Injury Association of Ohio Annual Membership Meeting
We are excited to be hosting our 2023 Annual Membership Meeting in conjunction with our 2023 Ohio Brain Injury Summit. The membership meeting will take place on October 5th from 8:30 am - 10:00 am.
Our official notice with more information can be found here.
Why We Walk, Run and Roll - Survivor Spotlight : Meet Lauren
Lauren was a very talented and busy young person: a lifelong dancer, a gifted musician that played the flute, and a hardworking college student with two jobs. In fact, she was involved in so many different things that her mom would often say, "Slow down, you are doing too much!" To which Lauren would just respond, "I have dreams Mommy!".
But those big dreams suddenly changed on September 27, 2014 when Lauren, then a 21 year old junior in college majoring in Early Childhood Education, was on her way to a part time job at Cedar Point for HalloWeekends. As she drove through an intersection she had passed through countless times before, her car was hit by an uninsured and unlicensed driver. The accident was so severe that Lauren needed to be extracted from her car with the Jaws of Life and life-flighted to Toledo Trauma Center. Meanwhile, Lauren's mom was waiting at home to hear from Lauren as she would usually call when she got to work, or at least text a photo when she had all of her Halloween make up on. But hours passed by with no communication.
When the phone finally rang, it wasn't Lauren... it was the Chaplin at the hospital telling them to come quickly because the situation was "very bad". Lauren was diagnosed with a subdural hematoma on her brain. Doctors had tried to do surgery to insert a shunt, but it was unsuccessful. Lauren flatlined for 15 minutes. Still, Dr. Jason Schroeder and his medical team did not give up. They performed a craniotomy and removed part of her skull to help with the swelling in her brain. Unfortunately, following the surgery, Lauren got an infection which left her in the ICU for 27 days.
Over the next 11 months, Lauren was transferred to several different locations to get the care she needed. Lauren needed to relearn everything: how to eat, swallow, communicate and move. Even the simple task of moving her head was daunting due to the fact that she wore a helmet and had limited mobility on her right side. But thanks to daily intense therapy, innovative treatments, persistent and loving parents, and caring medical staff, Lauren slowly began to improve. One particular Trainer named Marc—who also had also suffered a brain injury years ago—was pivotal in her progress. Every day, he worked with her and moved her arms and legs and strengthened her muscles.
Eight and a half years later, Lauren's progress has been amazing. She is able to use the specialized bike and the stepper at the gym. At one point she was walking independently for short distances, but seizure activity and required medications have interfered with her ability to walk independently for now.
Her mother said talking to people through support groups and learning about their stories has been incredibly helpful and powerful. "In the beginning you think, 'It's going to be fine, she's going to get better,' so you are more hesitant to reach out. But then you realize it's permanent and you want to talk to everyone".
The Brain Injury Association currently offers over 20 support groups (virtual and in person) throughout Ohio for traumatic brain injury survivors and their caregivers. The groups, which are led by experienced professionals, provide a forum where families can connect with each other, support each other and also learn about new opportunities for care. Lauren's mother said, "I never knew how devastating a brain injury could be until I went through it and met other families."
The first two years following the brain injury are incredibly important. The earlier people can get help, the more likely they are to make improvements. Unfortunately, Lauren's mom said that finding the right care and being able to afford it is a huge challenge. Many people get dropped from their insurance plans, are restricted by the number of treatments, or are limited in their capacity to try certain specialized treatments because they are excluded from the plan. A perfect example of this is a Stem Cell Treatment that Lauren received (using her own stem cells) in California. In addition to travel expenses, this specialized treatment cost $20,000 and was not covered by insurance so the family paid out of pocket. Another example is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, an innovative treatment that is proven to promote internal tissue healing. One month of this treatment is a minimum of $4,000 and it is not covered by insurance. These additional financial expenses leave families struggling financially when they are already dealing with the physical, mental and emotional toll of caring for their loved one.
But just like Lauren and her family, these resilient families keep moving forward and searching for new opportunities for treatment and help. Lauren's mom explains, "You do what you have to do because it's your choice." Despite the ongoing challenges, the family is full of gratitude for the caring and compassionate people and places they have met along the way. Dr. Schoeder, Toledo Trauma Center, Green Springs, Sara's Garden, her trainer Marc, and a wonderful aid named Danielle have all brought light to some very dark days.
This past January, Lauren turned 30. Her life is nothing like she envisioned, but she is still busy as ever. Daily therapy, medical appointments and assisted care is a 24 hour job.
Just like any young millennial, she loves to take photos and will painstakingly stretch her thumb over the camera so she can do it with her one hand. With the help of her family, she even visited relatives in Italy this past summer. Lauren still has big dreams ... but they are very different. Her traumatic brain injury has made life different for everyone. But with strong support and continued access to medical care, every achievement—no matter how big or small—will continue to be celebrated by this inspirational family.
August News and Happenings
Happy August!
As the heat of summer continues, we are delighted to bring you the August edition of our BIAOH newsletter. You will see in this edition there are events happening all around the state bringing our community together. Our community of support in Ohio continues to grow stronger, united in our shared commitment to support brain injury survivors and caregivers through the challenges of brain injury recovery.
Our second annual Cerebration, Walk, Roll, Run to help raise funds for programs and services for survivors and their families is coming up fast! The event will take place on September 10, 2023, in person (at Westerville Sports Complex) and virtually from anywhere! We are very excited to have virtual gathering events in multiple cities this year - check out the website to see if there's one near you! You can find more information and the registration link below. Make sure to register today!
We have also scheduled our 2023 Ohio Brain Injury Summit, which will be held October 5-6, 2023, The event will be hybrid at the OhioHealth Davd P. Blom Business Administration Campus and virtually via Zoom. Much more information can be found at the link provided below. For Thursday night we have scheduled a special event, An Evening with Bernie Kosar. We are excited to have former Cleveland Browns Quarterback, Bernie Kosar join us for An Evening with Bernie Kosar, on October 5th at Fawcett Center. This is a separate ticketed event and more information can be found below and at our website.
We invite you to join us and engage with one of our upcoming programs and events in 2023, to learn more about how we can work together to help brain injury survivors live well after brain injury.
We wish everyone a safe and happy end of summer!
July News
We hope you are all staying safe and cool as summer heats up! We have lots going on at BIAOH with many opportuntiies to get engaged over the next several months.
We want to share an update on the budget process. As many of you know we were advocating for funding of the Ohio BRAINS proposal that would offer increased funding to expand programs and services to the brain injury community. First, I want you to know that we are incredibly grateful for everyone's efforts in advocating for funding. So many people came forward to partcipate in an impactful advocacy day, helped write letters to legislators, went on visits and joined us for committee meetings to testify.
Regrettably, I have to share that despite our collective hard work and unwavering commitment, our advocacy efforts did not yield the outcome we hoped for. Please understand that our efforts were not in vain, and we will continue to build upon the success we have had over the last two years.
Together we have joined in an advocacy effort that has successfully brough brain injury awareness into the spotlight in Ohio. We have had many meaningful conversations as a result of this work, and we are creating greater awareness in the community. The dedication of each of you has made a lasting impact.
We will continue to raise awareness of brain injury's impact on Ohio, and we will continue to work to advocate for better for the survivors and caregivers we serve. This is not the end, but the beginning of our journey.
As we continue on our journey there is so much coming up in the next few months...
We have scheduled our second annual Cerebration, Walk, Roll, Run to help raise funds for programs and services for survivors and their families. The event will take place on September 10, 2023 both in person (at Westerville Sports Complex) and virtually from anywhere! You can find more information and the registration link below.
We have also scheduled our 2023 Ohio Brain Injury Summit, which will be held October 5-6, 2023, The event will be hybrid at the OhioHealth Davd P. Blom Business Administration Campus and virtually via Zoom. Much more information can be found at the link provided below.
We invite you to join us and engage with one of our upcomming programs and events in 2023, to learn more about how we can work together to help brain injury survivors live well after brain injury.
We wish everyone a safe and happy summer!
June News and Notes
As we slide into summer there is so much happening at BIAOH. Make sure to mark your calendars with all of the exciting programs and events coming up!
We are so grateful to everyone that has helped us advocate for increased funding for brain injury services in Ohio. We had great success with the House of Representatives, where they passed an increase in funding for 1.1 million. When the Senate released their budget, they removed that increase. We are hopeful that through the conference committee process, where the Senate and House will go line by line and decide what to keep, they will restore our funding. We continue to reach out to legislators and educate them on the impact of brain injury on Ohio and why this funding is important. You can too - and there is more information below.
We have scheduled our second annual Cerebration, Walk, Roll, Run to help raise funds for programs and services for survivors and their families. The event will take place on September 10, 2023 both in person (at Westerville Sports Complex) and virtually from anywhere! You can find more information and the registration link below.
We have also scheduled our 2023 Ohio Brain Injury Summit, which will be held October 5-6, 2023, The event will be hybrid at the OhioHealth Davd P. Blom Business Administration Campus and virtually via Zoom. Much more information can be found at the link provided below.
We invite you to join us and engage with one of our upcomming programs and events in 2023, to learn more about how we can work together to help brain injury survivors live well after brain injury.
We wish everyone a safe and happy summer!
Read our full newsletter here.
Hot off the presses, here's our December Newsletter!
https://mailchi.mp/biaoh.org/december-news-from-biaoh-16710244
Check out our November Newsletter!
https://mailchi.mp/0d50a3c2f818/november-news-from-biaoh-16700136
Check out October's Newsletter!
Check out all that is happening this fall at BIAOH here. Make sure to join us for our annual Membership Meeting on November 5th!
Check out our September Newsletter
As we roll into September, we have so many things happening in the brain injury community. We encourage you to take a look at all that is happening in the coming months and join us!
In October we will be launching our Healthy Minds program. It is an excellent, FREE, wellness program for brain injury survivors and caregivers to work on healthy living skills from a holistic approach. We will have weekly workshops alternating between Yoga, Healthy Eating, Mindfulness and Creative Expression. Be sure to sign up today as registration closes September 23rd!
We have our Cere-bration Walk, Roll, Run on October 16, 2022. This event will be held in person and virtually from anywhere! We have launched this event to raise awareness about brain injury in Ohio and to help raise funds for programs and services for survivors and their families. We offer all of our supports to survivors free of charge and we need your help to be able to continue to expand those offerings.
Check it all out in our September Newsletter!
Check out our July E-News
Learn about all the exciting things BIAOH has going on in July - Brain Injury Awareness Day, a new Member Portal and so much more!
https://mailchi.mp/biaoh/april-news-from-biaoh-16404900