Brainwaves ninth anniversary luncheon

Brainwaves is not the place anyone wants to be. No one wants to endure a brain injury. Yet the community focussed rehabilitation centre offers aid, assistance and training celebrating its ninth year of service with a luncheon today at the  from 11.30 at Oak Tree restaurant.

Programme Coordinator Sheryll Remnant says people with brain injuries often feel isolated or disconnected from the community and the luncheon is an important part of providing social interaction for their members.

Long term Brainwaves member Tony Kepa cuts the anniversary cake.

“We’re having our ninth annual luncheon today to celebrate our success and provide a social opportunity for brain injured people and their support people,” says Sheryll.

“Brain injuries affect people in different ways. Some families are reluctant to take their injured family on outings for fear of embarrassment. People can then become isolated. We have to help people understand brain injuries and help them re-learn skills and maybe explore new opportunities.”

Many stroke and accident victims can lose the skills they once took for granted. Brainwaves has recently introduced simple computing course which can re-teach people how to use something they once enjoyed using.

Brainwaves serve approximately 20 people per week with demand for help increasing. Rehabilitation includes help with reading, writing, mental skills and ability and reducing stress. 

Although ACC refer some people to Brainwaves a lot of members come from friends of current members who have benefitted from the service.