Brain injuries can be caused by motor vehicle accidents, medical conditions, recreational accidents, or other physical trauma.
The impact of a brain injury depends on its extent and precise location. Some people face difficulties with areas of cognition like memory, attention, organization or problem solving. Others are impacted physically, and face challenges with mobility, speech, and fatigue. Behaviourally, emotionally, and socially, individuals may function differently than they did before their injury.
March of Dimes Canada’s services support brain injury survivors as needed, whether that means a dedicated area of focus or support in multiple areas because of the nature of the injury.
March of Dimes Canada is a not-for-profit organization that has been around for 67 years helping people living with disabilities maximize their independence, and has been providing community-based Independent Living Services in Sudbury for more than 20 years now.
Our services have greatly expanded since we began supporting adults with acquired brain injury, now ranging from group services to 24-hour rehabilitation and personal support. Our focus is always on working with individuals to enhance the skills and abilities that were impacted by their brain injury and affect daily function.
The waitlist for our higher-level support services like supportive housing and congregate care is extensive. These services are geared toward individuals who live with a moderate to severe injury.
As Regional Independent Living Services Manager in the Northeast, I have witnessed many individuals regain daily living skills that have been impacted by a brain injury with the support of rehabilitation workers, or successfully use strategies we provide to compensate for an impacted cognitive area such as memory.
Brain injury doesn’t only impact the individual, but their entire personal network. Family, friends, and caregivers can also be affected to varying degrees.
March of Dimes Canada is currently in the early stages of constructing a home that will support 12 individuals who live with a significant brain injury and need 24-hour support to live as independently as possible and engage with their community.
This will address the need for accessible, affordable housing and for support services to assist individuals with potential and drive to regain functional abilities.
We are looking for Sudbury’s support in our capital campaign. If you’re interested in making a donation, or would like more information about our services, please contact our office at 705-671-3188. You can also visit our campaign website at marchofdimes.ca/movingahead.
Deanna Chisholm Tullio is the Regional Independent Living Services Manager in the Northeast.
