Autumn 2015 £2.25 HeadwayNews Me and my new brain · 2015-10-27 · Autumn 2015 HeadwayNews 3...

HeadwayNewsAutumn 2015 £2.25

Me and mynew brain

Snowboarder Charlie shares features in BBC documentary

t h e m a g a z i n e o f t h e b r a i n i n j u r y a s s o c i a t i o n

on social media

Connectwith Headway

facebook.com/headwayukGet the latest news from Headway and join the

conversation on our lively Facebook page.

youtube.com/headwayukWatch and share a wealth of personal stories,

brain injury news and useful talks on our

YouTube page.

Watchus on

Headway’s social media networks give you the chance to stay up-to-date withthe latest news, events and issues surrounding brain injury. You can also join inthe conversation and help us raise awareness.

twitter.com/headwayukConnect with us to get all our events and news

straight to your feed, and share the message of

Headway with your followers.

instagram.com/headwayukGet the best view of Headway by following us

on the popular image sharing site Instagram,

our newest social network.

Connect with over 2,000 people with brain injury, their family

and carers on the Headway HealthUnlocked community.

HealthUnlocked.com/headway

HeadwayNewsAutumn 2015 3

Contents

The hidden disability. That’swhat brain injury is so oftencalled, with Headway

continually working hard to helppeople understand that what yousee is not always what you get.

It is very true that for some,aspects of their brain injury will bevisibly obvious. For others,however, the phrase ‘Well, you lookfully recovered’ will be frustratinglycommon. In this edition ofHeadway News, we meetMichaela, who faces a ‘constantbattle’ to control her emotions. Wealso have a one-to-one with CharlieElmore, who has previously sharedher personal experience of braininjury with Headway.

In July, Charlie’s hidden disabilitywas explored in the most public

HeadwayNews

Publisher’s Details

Autumn 2015Published quarterly by:

Headway - the brain injury association

Bradbury House 190 Bagnall Road

Old BasfordNottingham NG6 8SF

Freephone Helpline:

0808 800 22 44Advertising: Joe Leadley

0115 947 1912information.manager

@headway.org.uk

Website: www.headway.org.ukTelephone: 0115 924 0800

DisclaimerAdvertisements in Headway News

are accepted on a commercialbasis. By publishing an

advertisement, Headway does not indicate endorsement of the

product or services provided by the advertiser.

The views expressed in articles or letters reproduced in this

magazine do not necessarilyrepresent Headway policy or the

views of Headway’s Board ofTrustees. They are primarily

intended to provide the broadestpossible views from which readers

may form their own opinions.

Headway is a charity that supports people affected by a brain injury and theircarers. We help people understand about brain injury, offer support, and run a free information helpline (0808 800 2244). We also produce a range ofpublications that explain the effects of brain injury and what can be done tohelp. You can visit our website at www.headway.org.uk.

of domains for a BBC Threedocumentary called Me and MyNew Brain. It was a fascinatinginsight into challenges that can befaced by brain injury survivors asthey battle to rebuild their lives.We catch up with Charlie in thisedition to find out why she agreedto help make the programme.

Finally, a word or two for thereturn of The Way Ahead. What aweekend! Any weekend thatbrings together Headwaysupporters, carers, survivors,volunteers and staff for three daysof learning, sharing and not tomention plenty of fun and gameshas to be good, right? See foryourself on pages 14-17.

Bye for now!The Communications Team

Headway relies solely on voluntarycontributions to fund its work.

To make a donation please contact the fundraising team on

0115 924 0800or make a donation online at

www.headway.org.uk/ donate.aspx

News ........................................................................................... 4

Eye on...Communication Matters ......................................... 9

FAQs ........................................................................................ 10

My Story: Michaela ................................................................ 13

The Way Ahead Conference 2015 ................................... 14

Fundraising News ................................................................. 18

News from across the UK ................................................... 23

Dates for your Diary .............................................................. 31

Welcome...

4

News

HeadwayNews Autumn 2015

Charlie helps the BBC defy Headway supporter Charlie

Elmore, who sustained abrain injury in a

snowboarding accident four yearsago, has helped raise awarenessof brain injury by retracing thesteps of her recovery in a newBBC Three documentary.

Me & My New Brain aired on 21 July as part of the channel’sDefying the Label season, whichfocuses on the issues faced bydisabled people today.

In January 2011, Charliesustained a devastating braininjury while snowboarding inAustria. Despite spending tendays in an induced coma andmore than three months in varioushospitals and rehabilitation unitsin Austria and England, Charliehas gone on to make a goodrecovery. She has evensucceeded in returning to herpassion in life – snowboarding.

But Charlie’s journey was far fromsmooth – and indeed is ongoing.

The powerful and emotivedocumentary saw Charlie embarkon a courageous journey toimprove understanding of this‘invisible’ disability. She alsospoke with other young braininjury survivors facing their ownpersonal battles to rebuild theirlives.

Headway played an active role inthe making of this documentary,providing advice and informationto the filmmakers while supportingCharlie throughout. Filming alsotook place at a carers’ meeting atHeadway Luton, although sadlythe footage did not make the finaledit.

Speaking to Headway News afterthe programme had been aired,Charlie said: “I was still young at26 when my injury occurred andwas still growing and developingas a person. At a social eventfollowing my brain injury, someoneasked if I was feeling ‘back tonormal.’ This was a big momentfor me. What is ‘normal’? I am not

looking to rediscover somedefinitive ‘old’ or ‘normal’ self.Everything that happens to youtakes you in a new life direction.

“I once said that I love everyeffect that this has had on me,but today I can say myperspective has shifted a little.

“The effects of my injury have attimes been horrendous, oftenmaking me feel isolated,miserable, incapable and broken. I have lost friendships becausepeople haven’t wanted to offer methe kind of patience needed tohelp a person who has sustaineda traumatic brain injury.

“It’s only in the last few monthsthat I have been able to noticethis as I am now in a relationshipwhere I am loved and cared for.I’ve had new emotions to feel andhave had to rediscover the inner‘me’.”

Getting back out there“I’m still habitually snowboarding!”said Charlie. “The first winter backon the slopes after my injury wasincredibly tough and cognitivelydemanding as all I wanted to dowas get back to teachingsnowboarding lessons. I am notalone when I say that ‘familiarity’Charlie Elmore recounts her early journey to recovery

5

News

HeadwayNewsAutumn 2015

disability labels

“This will lend help in financiallysupporting individuals looking tocompete in the 2018 WinterParalympics, along with InvictusGames competitors and otherdisabled athletes.

“When the BBC Threeproduction team approached me,via Headway, and explained theirplans for the project, I wasexcited to get involved. It soundedlike fun and the programme’s aimwas to explore the hidden effectsof brain injury.

“I have received an overwhelmingamount of positive feedback andreally want the documentary tospread understanding and hopefor those who are struggling.

“That said, I don't fully agree withthe title of Me and My New Brain.The original title of theprogramme was going to be Meand My Broken Brain, which Ialso didn’t like as it does notconsider the progress andachievements that can be madeafter brain injury.

“I don’t feel as though I have a‘new brain’, but rather amarvellously adapted, re-wiredand re-inventing brain.”

● To read Charlie’s story in full,including a Q&A session withCharlie after the programmehad aired, visit www.headway.org.uk/my-story/charlotte-elmore.aspx

● Thanks go to Headway Lutonfor its support in the filmingprocess.

played a huge part in the first fewyears post-accident.

“I’ve now spent four winters backin Switzerland since the accidentand my direction has changedslightly as I am now passionateabout helping people withdisabilities in snowsports.

“In many ways, I can empathisewith their challenges; I can relateto them as being someone whohas experienced the hardships insports, and has also faced variousphysical and mental barriersresulting from a traumatic braininjury.

“My partner and I also recentlyco-founded a social enterprisethat we are preparing to launchconsisting of a clothing label witha campaign message to inspiredisadvantaged and troubledpeople to overcome their personal challenges.

“The idea stemmed from thejumper I was wearing on the dayof my accident. I was gutted todiscover that paramedics had tocut away my favourite blue hoodie.

“Rather than throwing it away, Iknitted the ripped clothingtogether with bright pink wool.Even today, I still occasionallywear it!

“We designed a range of hoodiesinspired by this quirky style usingthe slogan Get Back Out Thereto encourage people to pursuetheir hobbies and dreams afterdisability or any life-altering event.

Charlie poses in her repaired hoodieto launch her new social enterprise.Visit www.gbot2018.org for moreinformation.

back to alert James, who thenbrought Jim back in.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live,Croyde said: “I stood up on mysurfboard and saw a boy’s headbobbing up and down. My Daddived into the water – DavidHasselhoff style – swamunderwater, picked the boy upand dragged him to shore.“It’s not every day you rescuesomeone from drowning, is it?”he added.

A proud James said: “Too often,we don’t give our children oryoung people enough credit. He (Croyde) was amazing in thatsituation, not to panic. It was allco-ordinated by little man here.”

Now that’s what we call a pair ofHeadway Heroes!

6

News


Headway Vice Presidentand son hailed ‘heroes’

He may have becomefamous for his exploits onwater rather than in it, but

Headway Vice President JamesCracknell has been labelled ahero for saving a family fromdrowning.

The double Olympic gold medal-winning rower was enjoying arelaxing holiday with his family inDevon when the drama unfolded.James was surfing with his 11-year-old son, Croyde, when theyspotted a grandfather and hisgrandson in difficulty.

Seven-year-old Emerson Faircloughhad been paddling in the sea withhis older brother, Joshua, when hewas caught in a strong current andswept out to sea.

The children’s grandfather, JimGreatorex, 67, waded into thewater to try to reach Emerson.

But not only could Jim not get toEmerson, but he himself thenfound himself in difficulty.

Jim managed to shout to Croydefor help. Belying his tender ageand managing to stay calm,Croyde called for his father, whopromptly dived into the water, tohelp Emerson.

Meanwhile, Croyde used hissurfboard to paddle out to Jim,who had begun to struggle.

Croyde offered the man hisboard, helping him on to it tokeep him safe before swimming

New factsheets Headway has extended its

award-winning library ofinformation resources

with the release of two newfactsheets for people withbalance and dizziness problemsafter brain injury, and threeaddressing legal issues. Thelatest additions to Headway’s list of freely downloadablefactsheets are:

● Balance problems anddizziness after brain injury:causes and treatment

● Balance problems anddizziness after brain injury: tips and coping strategies

Balance problems and dizzinesscan be debilitating and areextremely common after braininjury. The new factsheets areintended to help peopleunderstand why the issues occur,while providing a wide range ofexercises and coping strategiesto help people improve theircondition or simply learn to copebetter and enjoy life more.

7

News


Headway UK’s Training Manager,Ed Arnoll, will also provideguidance on how to manage andcope with challenging behaviourfrom a client or their familyfollowing a brain injury.

Independent financial advisor,Concerva Limited, has kindlysponsored the event in partnershipwith The Office of The PublicGuardian, which represents bothprofessional and lay deputies.

“We are seeing a significant risein the number of deputies workingwith people who lack the capacityto make important financialdecisions following a brain injury,”said Melanie Dickens, FundraisingOfficer at Headway UK.

“It is vital that deputies haveappropriate understanding of

Headway has launched anew conference toprovide support and

information to the growingnumber of people appointed asdeputies for those lackingcapacity following brain injury.

Bookings are now open forHeadway UK’s first ever DeputyConference, which will take placeat The Studio in Manchester onWednesday 14 October. Theconference is designed to helpdeputies support brain injurysurvivors with making decisions ifthey have lost capacity followingtheir injury. The day will feature adiverse range of talks delivered bySenior Judge Denzil Lush, PublicGuardian Alan Eccles, law firmIrwin Mitchell’s Julia Lomas, andJenny Stone from Nestorcorporate advisors.

brain injury. The programme wehave put together includes talksfrom some of the leadingprofessionals in the field who willdeliver key information andguidance to support those whowork as either a professional orlay deputy.”

Delegates will also receive acomplimentary copy of the BMAaward-winning Headwaypublication Supporting people tomake decisions: applying theMental Capacity Act.

● To book your place, pleasecomplete the online bookingform using the web linkhttps://headwayuk.wufoo.com/forms/deputy-conference-2015 or contact MelanieDickens on 0115 924 0800.

New conference tosupport deputies

launchedThree new factsheets on legalissues have also been produced:

● A guide to disabilitydiscrimination law

● A guide to Disabled Facilities Grants

● A guide to insurance policies after brain injury

Written in association withStewarts Law LLP, the factsheetsare designed to help peoplenavigate some tricky legal areas.Sadly, facing discrimination can

be a common occurrence formany brain injury survivors. Ourfactsheet on the subject can helpyou know where you stand legallyif you feel you have beendiscriminated against.

The other titles can help youidentify whether you could qualify

for a Disabled Facilities Grant andguide you through the possibilitiesof making an insurance claim afterinjury.

● To download the factsheets,visit www.headway.org.uk/factsheets.aspx

9

Eye On...


Eye on...Communication Matters

The aims of CommunicationMatters include:

● increasing awareness aboutAAC;

● improving service standards;● encouraging research; and● lobbying government for

change.

The charity has a small staffcomprising just three people (onefull time administrator, a part-timecommunications officer and a verypart-time bookkeeper!) based in anoffice in Leeds. The organisation isoverseen by a board of 12trustees who serve for three-yearterms and volunteer their time andexpertise to support the activitiesof the charity.

The charity’s website is a goodsource of information and support,signposting people to services,resources, events, research andthe latest government updates onservice provision.

It also provides publications andinformation relating to AAC andsupporting communication,including a quarterly journal.

Roadshows, which are open toprofessionals, parents, peoplewho use AAC and members ofthe public, enable suppliers toshowcase new developmentsand technologies, while studydays on topical issues tosupport Continuous ProfessionalDevelopment (CPD) are alsooffered.

Communication Matters is acharitable organisationfounded in 1986 which

supports people throughout the UKwho find communication difficult. Itworks to achieve a world where allindividuals have the opportunity tocommunicate through the provisionof Augmentative and AlternativeCommunication (AAC) equipmentand services. The charity is the UKchapter of ISAAC – theInternational Symposium forAugmentative and AlternativeCommunication.

AAC is the term used to describe various methods ofcommunication that cansupplement or replace speech.AAC includes simple systems suchas pictures, gestures and pointing,as well as more complextechniques involving powerfulcomputer technology.

It is estimated that 260,000 peoplein England could benefit from usingAAC. This includes those who havehad a brain injury or stroke andwho often face the challenge oflearning to use other ways ofcommunicating besides speech.

Communication Matters’ vision isa world where all individuals areable to communicate in allaspects of life. In working towardsthis aim, the charity promotes theawareness, understanding, anduse of all forms of communicationso individuals can express theirthoughts, feelings, needs anddesires using their chosen means.

Communication is central to who we are and how we relate to others. If communication is a problem, it has a profound impact on our lives.

Communication Matters alsopromotes and supports researchthrough an AACknowledgewebsite, an independent researchpanel, and a research involvementnetwork, all of which were launchedin 2012 following receipt of a grantfrom the Big Lottery Fund.

Each year the charity runs anational conference, which is akey event for all people who havean interest in AAC. This includespeople who use AAC, familymembers, teachers, therapistsand other professionals,researchers and the suppliers ofAAC systems and equipment.

This year’s conference takesplace in Leeds from 13-15September, with keynotespeakers from Australia sharingan exciting project calledCommunication access for all.

● To find out more about theconference, this project, andthe work of the charity, visitwww.communicationmatters.org.uk.

10

Frequently Asked Questions


Headway helpline: Frequently Asked Questions

In 2014, the Headway helplineanswered 8,500 enquiries – the

highest figure recorded in thehistory of the service and an

incredible 60% increase indemand since 2010.

Approximately 70% of theenquiries we answer on the

helpline are from people that aredirectly affected by brain injury –survivors, families and carers; the

remainder are enquiries fromprofessionals such as doctors,

nurses, rehabilitation teams and solicitors.

Q) I am planning on returning tomy education this autumn andwondered what sort of helpand support might be availableto me now that I have a brain injury?

A) Choosing to return toeducation can be hard at anytime, but after a brain injurylearning new information canoften be more difficult for somepeople. Gaining good sources ofhelp and advice will certainlyallow you to manage thistransition more effectively, andenable a positive outcome.

It is important to let the college oruniversity know as soon as

possible if you need any specificadjustments to make the courseaccessible to you. This can bediscussed with a DisabilityAdvisor or a Learning SupportAdvisor, depending on which isavailable. You can find the contactdetails of disability officers acrossthe UK here: www.dsa-qag.org.uk/students/find-your-disability-officer

Whether you are returning touniversity or college, there aremany support services available.These include:

● Learning Support Advisors:Offer support regardingstrategies that can help you tostudy to your full potential,regardless of your disability.

● University Disability services:Provide an opportunity todiscuss your options and anysupport that you may need foryour course. They can alsoprovide advice on money andaccommodation issues,counselling, and disabilityservices in general.

● Disabled Student Networks:Usually part of the studentunion and can help withinformation, along with up-and-coming events.

● AbilityNet: Advises on assistivetechnology for people withdisabilities (see www.abilitynet.org.uk)

● Disability Rights UK: Offers awide range of factsheets oneducation.

The other thing to look at is whatfinancial support and allowancesmay be available to you. Here aresome information sources whichmay be helpful when you arereturning to study:

Headway’s confidential helpline is available from 9am to5pm, Monday to Friday. Calls are free from landlines and

most mobile networks. Email enquiries to:[email protected]

0808 800 2244

11

Frequently Asked Questions


● Financial help for students:www.gov.uk/student-finance/extra-help

● Career Development Loans:www.learndirect.co.uk

● Disability Rights UK studenthelpline: 0800 328 5050

● Disabled Student Allowances:www.gov.uk/disabled-students-allowances-dsas/overview

● Hardship and DiscretionaryFunds: These are usuallyavailable from the college oruniversity.

● Charitable trusts:www.disabilityrightsuk.org/funding-charitable-trusts

(The availability of these fundsvaries in different regions ofEngland, Scotland, Wales andNorthern Ireland.)

Having a disability does not needto be a barrier when returning toeducation, however you may needto pace yourself if fatigue is anissue for you. If you need anyfurther advice you can alwayscontact the freephone Headwayhelpline on 0808 800 2244 [email protected].

Q) I have been feeling dizzy when Istand up and often lose mybalance when I am walking. I’vestarted to avoid going out andspend days just sitting in achair or lying down. Could thisbe associated with my braininjury, and what can I do to stopthis feeling?

A) There are many possiblecauses of balance problems afterbrain injury, and even a minorhead injury can result in problems.The ability to balance and orientourselves with the outside world

is vitally important. However,most people take this skill forgranted and don’t realise thecomplex interactions involvedbetween multiple systems in thebrain and body.

Brain injury can often disruptthese systems, resulting in manyproblems with balance anddizziness that can lead to a higherrisk of falls.

In order to maintain goodbalance, the brain uses the mostreliable information it receives foreach situation. For example, in thedark when vision is reduced it willrely on the legs and ears to relayinformation about thesurroundings to maintain balance.

This is a reason why people withsensory or movement difficultiesoften experience balanceproblems.

The main areas involved in thebalance system are:

● The vestibular system: Anarea of the inner ear that isheavily associated with balance.

● The brain: Processesinformation from the other parts of the body.

● The sensory system: Refers tomuscles, tendons, joints.

● The visual system: Visionprovides vital information to thebrain about where we are inrelation to other objects.

You should always seek a referralto an appropriate specialist, suchas a neurophysiotherapist, for a fullassessment and recommendationson techniques to help you.However, the suggestions mayhelp to manage your condition.

● Stay Active: Don’t avoid thingsthat cause the dizziness as thiscan lead to social isolation.Inactivity means that the brainisn’t exposed to mismatchingsignals within the ear andprevents a process calledvestibular compensation.

● Participate fully in any rehabprogramme and the exercisesthat have been advised.

● Don’t suffer in silence: Sharingyour concerns and talking thingsthrough can be really helpful.

● Keep a diary: It is important tolearn to recognise the triggersof the dizziness and balanceproblems. Take the diary tomedical appointments; the moreinformation you are able toprovide to your GP, the betterequipped they are to help you.

Headway has recently releasedtwo new factsheets for peoplewith balance and dizzinessproblems after brain injury. Theseare free to download from thewebsite. They are intended tohelp people understand why theissues occur, and include a widerange of exercises and copingstrategies to help people managetheir condition.

● To download the new balanceand dizziness factsheets, visitwww.headway.org.uk/factsheets.aspx

12 HeadwayNews Autumn 2015

13

My Story


‘Managing my emotionsis a constant battle’

“The injury to my frontal lobecauses me to struggle with myemotions and behaviour. I havelost most of my old friends andeven now struggle to make newones – it makes me feel veryisolated.

“The majority of people see me as a happy and smiley person and that is who I am most of thetime, but if someone sayssomething I do not like I becomeeasily distressed. Managing myemotions at these times remains a constant battle.

“I received ongoing support fromHeadway Cornwall and I nowcarry my Headway ‘brain injurysurvivor’ card with me at all timesand show it to people when anunexpected outburst occurs. Itimmediately diffuses the situation– I don’t know where I’d bewithout it!”

Three years ago, Michaeladecided to take up running. Shesoon discovered that running

enabled her to focus and calmher mind after an emotionaloutburst.

In February, Michaela proudlycompleted the Cornish Pasty Runin Saltash, which involves tackling20 muddy obstacles alongsidemembers of the Marines and theRoyal Navy.

“Obstacle races are perfect forme because they are not aboutspeed,” said Michaela. “They areabout endurance, helping eachother and not giving up. I want tomake the hidden effects of braininjury visible to those people whodon’t understand the subtle dailychallenges that such injuries cancause.

“Now, whenever I see a personon a horse or bike without ahelmet it makes me feel physicallysick and worried. So many peopleare unaware of the real dangersand lasting consequences ofhead injuries.”

“Ihave ridden horses eversince I was a teenager,”said Michaela. “On the

day of the incident, I remembertaking the family’s horse into theforest. I can’t remember whathappened next or how long I waslaying there. I was eventuallyfound unconscious on the floor bywalkers.

“I think the horse must have beenspooked by something andbolted. I have a blurry memory oflosing control of the reins and thehorse not stopping. I must havefallen and hit my head.

“Just weeks before my accidentI’d bought a new riding hatbecause the one I had previouslyborrowed was too big and did notfit properly. I am so glad I did.There is no question that theriding helmet saved my life.”

Michaela was rushed to RoyalSurrey County Hospital whereshe remained in a coma for 24hours before beginning to showsigns of improvement. A weeklater, Michaela was transferred tothe Royal Cornwall Hospital to becloser to her family.

“I returned to my family’s home torecover but we had no ideawhatsoever what was ahead of usor how dramatically our lives wereabout to change,” said Michaela.

Michaela, 44 and from Padstow in Cornwall, had been working as a nanny for a family in Wimbledonat the turn of the millennium. Michaela would often take the family’s horses out for some exercise in anearby forest – until one particular excursion went terribly wrong.

14

The Way Ahead Conference 2015

Autumn 2015HeadwayNews

Record turnout forThe Way Due to popular demand, theweekend’s workshops beganearly this year, with two half-daytraining sessions (Conductingeffective radio interviews andTrain the trainer) complementedby a discussion forum andnetworking session for groupCEOs or senior managers.

This was the first time such ameeting of senior staff fromHeadway groups and brancheshad come together at The WayAhead. Led by HelenFairweather, Chief Executive ofHeadway Suffolk, and DawnWright, one of Headway UK'sNetwork Support Managers, themeeting provided a great opportunity to shareideas and challenges with peers.

A hearty breakfast was requiredon Saturday morning –particularly for those who hadenjoyed the eveningentertainment a little tooenthusiastically – to fueldelegates for a packed day ofseminars and workshops.

After a warm welcome by BrianClingan, Director of Services atHeadway, Dr Trevor Powell hadthe honour of delivering the firsttalk of the weekend. Trevor hasworked for 30 years in the NHSas a neuropsychologist and hasbeen chairman of HeadwayThames Valley for 25 years.

The author of several books,including the authoritative HeadInjury: A practical guide, Trevorprovided a fascinating insight intoa concept called ‘post-traumaticgrowth’.

Trevor’s research into the subjectled him into contact with peoplewho feel their brain injury has hada positive effect on their lives,with statements including ‘I feel astronger person for it’; ‘My life ismore balanced’; and even ‘I amgrateful to my brain injury, it’sgiven me a richer, fuller life’.

With these counterintuitive viewsat odds with the experiences ofmany people affected by braininjury, Trevor gave a detailedoverview of his research and theconcept of post-traumatic growth.

Former Army soldier and officerRob Cromey-Hawke then took tothe stage. Rob was wounded inAfghanistan; he suffered a TBI,hearing loss and spinal injuries.He transitioned to civilian life,gaining employment as aleadership developmentprofessional and achievingremarkable things throughadaptive sport, including winningtwo gold medals at the InvictusGames in London 2014.

Did you ever hear the oneabout a giraffe, a hoodedvulture, a brainy dog, and ahedgehog? No? Well neitherhad we until they all playedstarring roles in this year’s TheWay Ahead conference, whichtook place in Staffordshire inearly July.

Anew venue, brilliantkeynote speakers,insightful workshops and a

record number of delegates allhelped make the event – whichwas returning after a one-yearabsence – a resounding success.

A record number of more than 340service users, volunteers, andmembers of staff from groups andbranches across the UK joined stafffrom Headway UK at the YarnfieldPark Training and ConferenceCentre, near Stone in Staffordshirefor a weekend of learning, sharingand socialising. Another record wasalso broken, with more than 50% ofthe group and branch network –from all areas of the UK –represented at the event.

Dr Trevor Powell delivers his talk to a packed audience

15



AheadRob shared with delegates hisexperience of brain injury and thechallenges of building a lifeoutside of the military with suchan injury.

In his insightful talk, Rob spokeopenly about the incident leadingto his injuries and the recoveryprocess thereafter, highlightingcritical decision points and thedifference between armed servicepersonnel being discharged withan ABI and a civilian with an ABI.

WorkshopsAs ever, The Way Ahead featureda host of workshops runningbetween the main seminars onthe Saturday. Delegates wereable to choose from a host oftopics delivered by Headway UKstaff, representatives from groupsand branches, and experts fromsupporting organisations.

The one-hour workshops rangedfrom offering practical skills, suchas generating local presscoverage, how to makesuccessful grant applications, andtechniques to influence local

decision makers. In addition, moretheoretical sessions providedinformation and analysis on topicssuch as The Care Act andsafeguarding.

Thanks go to all those who kindlydonated their time and expertiseto running workshops, all of whichwere well received by delegates.

Tackling big issuesNeurosurgeon Colin Shieff beganthe afternoon session with a talkentitled TBI: Is the icebergshrinking?

Colin, who is Chair of HeadwayNorth London and a trustee ofHeadway UK, suggested thatthere have been significantadvances in acute neurologicalcare over the years, but there arestill problems with rehabilitation.

“Things are getting better, but westill have frayed edges,” saidColin. “It’s a carpet that’s reallygorgeous, it can carry lots ofpeople, but if the edges are a littlefrayed and you start tugging atthem it starts to come undone.

Rehabilitation, which is designedto pick up the pieces, remains a‘Cinderella’ (service).”

One of the biggest issues in theworld of contact sport at presentis how to identify and treatplayers suspected of havingsustained a concussion.

Professor Tony Belli, the UK’sonly Professor of TraumaNeurosurgery and leading expertin the field of sports concussiongave a fascinating insight intowork taking place both in publicand behind the scenes.

“Only a couple of years ago, weused to hear statements fromcoaches, parents and even clubdoctors of concussed playersalong the lines of ‘It’s just aconcussion, man up and get backon the pitch!’” said Tony.

“Now, not a weekend goes bywithout a newspaper or newschannel lambasting a manager ora doctor of one team or anotherfor ignoring ‘a potentially lethal’injury.

“But where does the truth lie?Should we all panic about ourchildren getting ‘brain-damaged’on a weekly basis or should webe more concerned about the risein childhood obesity and ourincreasingly sedentary society?”Rob Cromey-Hawke delivers his talk

The Way Ahead 2015 wasgenerously sponsored by:

16



But it’s not all work and no play!Far from it, in fact. Friday night’sentertainment was a mix of thetraditional and the, well, different!A pub quiz was held in the barand it was clear from the outsetthat local pride was at stake.

The most-keenly fought afteraward of the evening, however,was for the ‘Best Giraffe’. If,perhaps understandably, you’venever attempted to make a modelgiraffe using the art of origamithen we suggest you give it a go!It certainly caused a great deal ofamusement from our teams, withsome impressive (and some notso impressive) results.

By far the most popular delegateof the weekend had to be Hope.A black labrador, Hope is part ofHeadway Suffolk’s Brainy Dogsscheme.

Brainy Dogs is a unique projectthat sees rescue dogs fromFelixstowe Blue Cross trained byprisoners from nearby HollesleyBay Prison become companiondogs to people with a brain injuryor neurological condition.

Supported by her owner andBrainy Dogs Co-ordinator SophieMayes, Hope provided ademonstration of the support thedogs can give to people livingwith brain injury.

Further entertainment wasprovided by a birds of preyexhibition, with a tawny owl, aperegrine falcon and even ahooded vulture on show.

To complete the animal and birdtheme, a team from HeadwayNorth Staffordshire deliveredperhaps the most creativeworkshop of the weekend.

The session, run by Sandra Hall,Michelle Gunnery, and CaroleHall, was a creative workshopthat showed guests how to turnold and unloved books into aquirky ornamental hedgehog.

Used as a therapy by the group, itis a creative and fun way for braininjury survivors to expressthemselves while creating aproduct that can be sold to raisefunds or awareness for the charity.

Thank you!“We are delighted with the returnof The Way Ahead,” said BrianClingan, Director of Services atHeadway. “More importantly, the

Having a giraffe

If you’ve ever wondered what an origami giraffe looked like...

The saying ‘what you get outdepends on what you putin’ is certainly true of The

Way Ahead. It’s a busy weekendfull of opportunities to learn newskills, improve one’sunderstanding of new or existinglegislation, and develop ideas toimprove the services provided byHeadway groups and branchesacross the country.

“ “

Well done to all at UK for a great Way Aheadweekend. All my staffthoroughly enjoyed it, found it interesting andinformative. We are lookingforward to coming again.Headway group CEO

“ “A fantastic event with a hugely stimulatingselection of speakers andworkshops.Delegate

The WayAhead 2015

17



Brainy Dog, and to the GauntletBirds of Prey centre.

“Finally, our sincere thanks toThompson Solicitors forsponsoring this year’s event and toall our exhibitors for playing suchan integral role in the weekend.

“Planning is already underway fornext year’s event, at which wehope to see our attendancerecords broken once more. We hope to see you there!”

feedback we have received fromdelegates suggests that thisyear’s event was a tremendoussuccess.

“The main aim of this conferencehas always been to bring togetherthe Headway network so thatgroups and branches across theUK can reap the benefits of beinga part of such a diverse andvibrant community.

“There is such a wealth of talent and passion within thisorganisation and it is always such apleasure to see it all come togetherin one place over one weekend.

From book to hedgehog in a few simple steps!

A tawny owl was part of animpressive birds of prey display

“The Way Ahead can only be asuccess with the help of a largenumber of people. Our sincerethanks go to all those whoprepared and delivered suchthought-provoking workshopsthroughout the weekend.

“Similarly, we would like to thankour excellent keynote speakers –Dr Trevor Powell, Rob Cromey-Hawke, Professor Tony Belli andColin Shieff.

“Thanks also to Headway Suffolkfor bringing along Hope, the

“ “An excellent weekendwith great company,accommodation andworkshops.Delegate

“ “We met incrediblepeople from Headwayorganisations around theUK, all of whom were lovely.Complementary therapist

“ “The speakers wereexcellent and the subjectsthey covered were relevantand inspiring.Headway group Chair

The WayAhead 2015

18

Fundraising News


Personal triumphs aplenty for RideLondon heroes

Despite facing a difficult road torecovery, Drew finally felt ready toget back in the saddle.

“I consider myself one of the luckyones,” said Drew. “I recovered wellfollowing my brain injury. Now, I’dlike to reach out and help others insimilar situations – especially thosewho are feeling baffled, frustratedand not knowing how to cope aftera head injury.”

It may not come as a shock thattraining for RideLondon is hardwork and requires a lot ofdetermination. However, this testof resolve proved particularlyintense for one unfortunateHeadway rider.

Nottinghamshire’s Mark Walkerbroke his thumb while preparingfor the event and wiselyconceded he could no longertrain on the road. Undeterred,Mark carried on his training athome using a stationary ‘turbotrainer’, and eventually went on to

complete the ride in less than sixhours with his healing (if slightlysore!) thumb.

For Kent-based Justin Morgan,finishing the race was also asignificant personal conquest. In2005, Justin suffered a rupturedbrain aneurysm, which resulted ina devastating subarachnoidhaemorrhage.

“Completing RideLondon was ahuge personal achievement,” saidJustin, who crossed the finish lineafter just five-and-a-half hours.

“I had a great day and surprisedmyself by finishing with a muchfaster time than expected. Plus, I managed to raise money forHeadway – which made it evenbetter!”

● Feeling inspired to take part innext year’s event? Register your interest for a Headwaycharity place by [email protected]

In stark contrast to the stormyskies and torrential rain thatdominated last year’s event,

the sun was shining down on thisyear’s 100-mile cycle challengefrom London to Surrey, providinga glorious backdrop for the day’sactivities.

Thanks to the fabulousfundraising efforts of our riders,many of whom have brain injuriesthemselves, Team Headwayraised an incredible £10,000 forthe charity.

Drew Savage, from Manchester,decided to tackle the challengeafter a cycling accident in 2012left him with a serious brain injury.

On Sunday 2 August, 26,000 determined cyclists descended onto the iconic streets of the capital for the country’s largest cycling event: the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100. Among the riders were12 intrepid Headway Heroes, each with their own personal reasons for wanting to raise funds andawareness of the charity.

Committed: Headway hero MarkWalker nurses a hurt thumb duringtraining for RideLondon

Success! Drew Savage at the finish line

Justin Morgan shows off his medal

19

Fundraising News


“Alex was invaluable during theearly stages of my recovery after Isuffered a subarachnoidhaemorrhage,” said Joanne. “Shewas my lifeline.

“I hope the beautiful new shopraises awareness of the workHeadway does.”

A fourth shop, based in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, was declared officiallyopen for business on Tuesday 25August by Headway volunteerChris Crutchlow.

Carol Tennet, Head of Retail at

Headway has strengthenedits presence on highstreets across the country

with the launch of four new shopsin as many months.

Volunteers, staff and supportersturned out to mark the officialopening of Headway stores inSwinton and Droylsden (bothGreater Manchester), Winsford(Cheshire) and Ashby(Nottingham), receiving a warmwelcome from shoppers and thelocal communities alike.

In Swinton, 54-year-old ex-militaryman Paul Morville, who sustaineda traumatic brain injury while onduty, was given the honour ofcutting the ribbon at the launch ofthe new Headway shop at theSwinton Square shopping centre.

Meanwhile, brain injury survivorsDamian Williamson, 43, andMichael Brearley, 57, already haveplans to volunteer one day a weekat Headway’s 25th store inDroylsden shopping centre afterofficially declaring the shop openfor business.

Family support worker JoanneAtkinson was also delighted tosupport Headway’s plans tolaunch a shop near to her home inWinsford in July. Joanne becameaware of the charity after HATSnurse Alex Power supported herafter she sustained a brain injury.

Paul Morville cuts the ribbon at the new Headway shop in Swinton

A four-midable boost toHeadway’s high street presence

Headway, said: “We feel deeplyhonoured that each one of ourwonderful volunteers has agreedto use their own experiences tohelp others by cutting the ribbonsor signing up to volunteer in oneof our new charity shops.

“We are proud to be increasingthe number of Headway shopswe run. Not only do they providevital income to enable us toimprove life after brain injury, butthey help us raise the profile ofHeadway and increase thepublic’s understanding of braininjury.”

● To find your local Headway shop, please visitwww.headway.org.uk/charity-shops.aspx

● Thanks go to Tollers Solicitors,Sintons LLP, Cozens-HardyLLP, and Darbys Solicitors forproviding pro-bono supportwith the leases for the newshops.

Joanne Atkinson (second from left) meetsthe Headway team in Winsford

Droylsden volunteers DamianWilliamson and Michael Brearley

20

Fundraising News


It may only be September, butHeadway is already preparingfor the season to be jolly by

launching our brand new range ofChristmas cards and our 2015raffle!

There are eight fantastic carddesigns to choose from this year,including a modern winter wildlifescene and a partridge in a peartree. Some card designs alsofeature glitter or foil for that extraspecial Christmas sparkle.

A pack of ten cards costs just£3.50 and, as this year’s cardsare kindly sponsored by theHuntercombe Group, all proceedswill go towards helping us todeliver vital frontline services forfamilies affected by brain injuryacross the country.

Order your favourite designs soonwhile stocks last!

And don’t miss out on the chanceto win yourself some

Happy holly-days!

extra Christmas cash in ourannual raffle.

Tickets are just £1 each. Thisyear’s first prize is £1,000,second prize is £500, with £100for third prize.

If you would prefer to supportyour local Headway, tickets canbe bought directly from yourchosen group or branch, with 50pfrom each ticket going to the localcharity.

● To place a Christmas cardorder you can complete theenclosed leaflet, visit theHeadway website or call the

fundraising team on 0115 9240800. A selection of cards willalso be available from allHeadway UK charity shops.

● Raffle tickets will be availableshortly from all Headwaygroups and branches, or youcan request them by contactingthe fundraising team on 0115924 0800 or by [email protected]

● The closing date for the raffle is Wednesday 9 December.The draw will take place onWednesday 16 Decemberat Headway UK’s Nottinghamoffice. Good luck!

21

Fundraising News


Resolute fundraisers haveundertaken a series of‘Ultra Challenges’ across

the country to honour the life oftheir friend who tragically passedaway following a brain injury.

Katie Drewery and friends Dean,Mickey and Karen, decided totackle the 100km Grand UnionChallenge in June to raise fundsfor Headway after their friend,Lisa Boswell, suffered a brainaneurysm and sadly passed away.She was 45 years old.

To support their epic walkingadventure, which was organisedby events company ActionChallenge, the committed team,called Lisa’s Army, also hostedvarious additional fundraisingevents to collectively raise morethan £4,000 for Headway.

The Grand Union Challenge sawLisa’s Army set off from Regent’sPark in London before following aroute along the Grand UnionCanal Towpath, a hidden green

Lisa’s Army faces Ultra Challenge

corridor winding towards thebeautiful Chilterns. An exhausting100km and 21-and-a-half hourslater, the team finally made it tothe finish line in Bletchley as thesun rose to mark the next day!

“Lisa was a healthy, happy andenergetic person who had a hugeappetite for life and a spirit ofadventure that was contagious,”said Katie.

“There was nobody quite like Lisaand there never will be again. If

Lisa was here with us today, shewould be encouraging us to dothis challenge and she would beright there beside us, urging uson towards the finish line.”

Dean said after the challenge:“My poor feet have taken a bit ofa battering but they’re starting torecover now.

“The Action Challenge team wereamazing. The route wassignposted very well and the foodand snacks along the way wereexcellent – I’ve never eaten somuch in my life!

“All four of us completed thechallenge for Lisa. It was a greatexperience and I know she wouldbe proud of us.”

● Inspired by Lisa’s Army or fancy having a go at an UltraChallenge next year? Contactthe fundraising team whileHeadway places are stillavailable on 0115 924 0800or visit www.headway.org.uk/ultra-challenge.aspx for more information.

Making Lisa proud: Dean, Katie, Karen and Mickey at the Ultra Challengefinish line

22

Fundraising News


With a number of high-profile cases beingreported on in the

national press recently, HeadwayNews takes a look at legacies toshow that – if prepared properly –they can be something the entirefamily can take pride in.

What is a legacy?Put simply, a legacy is a gift inyour will and can be as big orsmall as you like.

It can be an item such asjewellery or a house (specificlegacy), a cash sum – whether£50 or £50,000 (pecuniarylegacy), or a percentage of yourestate upon death (residuarylegacy). Despite slightly dauntingterminology, will-making is notcomplicated.

Can I leave what I like to anyone?By making a will you are ensuringthat your wishes are carried outupon your death. This can includefuneral arrangements, as well asfinancial planning for family or forcauses close to your heart.

Myth-busting legaciesProviding for one’s family is oftenmost people’s first thought.

Thereafter, a cash sum orpercentage of what is left couldhelp a charity to continue toprovide vital services. Mostlegacies to charity account foraround 1% - 5% of a person’sestate, illustrating that it is not justan exercise for the wealthy.

For instance, a gift of £500 canhelp a family cope with thesudden financial implications ofcatastrophic brain injury via anapplication to the HeadwayEmergency Fund. A gift of£4,500 ensures acute traumasupport can be provided toaround 60 families in just onemonth.

Why do I need a solicitor?For your will to be legally-bindingwe recommend you use aprofessional will-writer to guideand assist you in ensuring thatyour wishes are correctlydocumented. This will limit thecomplications that may arise andreduce the number of difficultdecisions your family will have tomake at such a distressing timefor them.

Where do I start?If you have a will already, check it reflects your currentcircumstances and that it makesclear your wishes for your family. If you need to update it, you canmake an amendment (a codicil)via your solicitor. Most solicitors

will do this for a modest fee. Werecommend you review your willat regular intervals.

If you have not got a will, then talkto a solicitor. They will guide youon the things to consider andprovide you with reassurance thatyour wishes are reflected in alegally-binding document.

Headway assistance includes:

● A will planner to help guide youthrough the areas to consider,and a codicil form to add anamendment to your will, aredownloadable free from ourwebsite at www.headway.org.uk/how-to-leave-a-legacy-to-headway.aspx

● A free standard will-writingservice is offered to Headwaymembers. Please contact Lisa Thompson [email protected]

Many people give regularly tocharities throughout their lifetime,others would like to but feel theycannot afford to as they worryabout their future needs.

Preparing a will provides peace ofmind for you and your family. Itenables you to continue a lifetimeof giving, long after you havegone.

● If you would like any further information or supportabout legacy giving, pleasecontact Lisa Thompson on0115 924 0800 [email protected]“We took comfort from the fact that Gary left a gift in his will to Headway,

alongside close family, to help people like himself.” Sarah Winters

23

News from across the UK


Judges bowled over by Peter

ATayside man whorekindled his passion forbowling to aid his

rehabilitation after brain injury hasbeen awarded a string of goldmedals for his technique in thesport.

Peter Gibb, a member ofHeadway Tayside, earned theright to compete in the finals forthis year’s Scottish bowling title,organised by Disabled SportScotland, after he wowed judgesand racked up an incredible fivegold medals.

What makes Peter’sachievements even more specialis that they come after ahaemorrhage in 2001 left himwith a severe brain injury and thedevastating news he may neverwalk again.

It was not until two years laterthat Peter was finally well enoughto leave hospital and return hometo begin a long and difficult roadto recovery.

With the continued support ofHeadway Tayside, Peter slowlyregained the language and writingskills he lost following his brainhaemorrhage.

Nonetheless, Peter missed theactive lifestyle he once led andeventually joined a disabledbowling club in Dundee where helearned the correct way to bowl.

He even began competing, andwinning, local competitions.

Peter in action with his wife Kate (left) and bowling coach and Headway Taysidemember, Marion McIntosh (right)

After a short break due to illness,Peter is now back in the swingonce again as he prepares totackle the Scottish bowling finalsthis autumn.

“I count Darren Burnett, the worldindoor bowling champion, as agood friend and I’m really lookingforward to playing against him,”said Peter.

“I’ve always enjoyed bowling and Iwrite a column on the subject forthe Headway Tayside newsletteras part of my rehabilitation.

“Thanks to Linda and Gill atHeadway Tayside, who had greatpatience and taught me how to usea computer, I’m now much better atcommunicating with people.

“I feel that I owe it to everybodywho has supported me throughthick and thin to give this bowlingcompetition my best shot.”

Peter Gibbs dons the gold medal thatearned him a place in this year’s Scottish bowling final

Autumn 2015HeadwayNews24


would walk with him willingly. Ialso believe it’s important to workon strategies for the future so thatskills learned through workingwith the horses are transferrableto life in general.”

Caroline Jepson, Chair ofHeadway Huddersfield, said:“Heidi has gone to great lengthsto support our group.

“We have faced great adversity inrecent years and Glint offeringthis unique service to our clientsmarks a fantastic new chapter forour charity.

“I would personally like to thankHeidi and also the committeemembers for their commitment,passion and their time which theygive so willingly to HeadwayHuddersfield.”

Headway Huddersfield first heardabout Glint when GarethBlackwell, the son of twocommittee members, beganattending sessions at the stablesafter a serious head injury left himwith a brain injury.

“Interaction with horses andponies following a traumatic braininjury can prove invaluable onmany different levels,” said Heidi.

“In particular, the emotionalconnection, movement and co-ordination skills required to carefor and to work with a horse canhave an enormous impact uponan individual’s rehabilitation andsense of wellbeing.

“Gareth built up trust andleadership skills such that thehorse he was working with, Billy,

There’s normally aninstruction for no horsingaround when special guests

visit Headway meetings – but itwas completely the opposite formembers of HeadwayHuddersfield at a recent event.

The members were treated to avisit by Heidi Dawson, ChiefExecutive of local charity GlintHuddersfield which uses ‘horse-assisted development’ as aneffective alternative to traditionalcoaching, therapy and training.

The programmes are designed toencourage people with disabilitiesto care for and learn about theanimals. Heidi spoke of howgrooming, feeding and walkingwith horses can improve aperson’s co-ordination andprovide a sense of purpose.

It’s neigh problem forHeadway Huddersfield

TBI survivor Gareth Blackwell with Billy the horse

25



United for charity!

benefit from the recentlyannounced support of the ExeterFoundation, which was set up bythe Exeter Chiefs rugby club in2010 to help fund local causes.

“Our profile in the city hassignificantly benefitted from ourrelationship with the Foundation inrecent years and we really lookforward to working with the ExeterChiefs again,” said Holly Keatings,

Fundraising and CommunicationsManager at Headway Devon.

“People within the rugbycommunity are often very aware ofhead injuries and are sympathetictowards the aims of our charity.We always get a great responsefrom the Exeter Chiefs’ generoussupporters during our visits to theSandy Park ground in Exeter.”

Two Headway groups haveshown they’re on the ball bysecuring support from local

professional sports clubs.

Headway Swindon and District wascrowned Charity of the Year bySwindon Town Football Club, whileHeadway Devon has been namedone of Exeter Chiefs’ chosencharities for the third year running.

On Friday 10 July, Swindon TownFootball Club announced thatHeadway Swindon and Districthad triumphed in a public vote tobecome its chosen charity. Thegroup can now look forward tobenefitting from the club’s highprofile in the community.

“We are tremendously honouredand grateful to Swindon Town FCfor naming us their Charity of theYear,” said Jane Weston, CentreManager at Headway Swindonand District.

“The partnership will definitelyopen doors for us. If the club’sreputation and profile helps to putus on the map so more localpeople living with brain injury canaccess the right support at theright time, we will be very happyindeed.”

Spurred on by the promise offundraising opportunities, Janehopes this new union will set thegoal posts for achieving HeadwaySwindon and District’s dream ofmoving into bigger premiseswithin a year.

Meanwhile, Headway Devon willbe one of 18 local charities to

From left: CEO of Exeter Chiefs, Tony Rowe OBE, at last year’s cheque presentationwith Headway Devon’s Hannah Blachford, Holly Keatings and Exeter FoundationTrustee Mark Astley

Headway Swindon and District staff set up camp at the Swindon Town FC stadium

26



Fun in the sunHeadway groups and

branches have been outand about in the

countryside enjoying some all-too-rare moments of sunshine. Here’sa round-up of just some of theiroutdoor adventures:

Back to natureHeadway North Devon’s coach tripto Cornwall’s Lost Gardens ofHeligan saw 29 members andcarers travel from Barnstaple to St.Austell for a day of nature at one ofthe UK’s most popular botanicalgardens. “It was quite a journey, butfantastic to spend the afternoonenjoying the lovely gardens,” saidKathy Wellington, Co-ordinator atHeadway North Devon.

“The entire trip, including lunch,was paid for using donationsmade to Headway North Devon inthe past 12 months. We wouldlike to thank everyone whosegenerosity made it possible for ourmembers to get out of the houseand enjoy socialising with otherfamilies affected by brain injury.”

In the West Midlands, serviceusers, carers and volunteers atHeadway Black Country visited

the National Memorial Arboretum,a site of war remembrance atAlrewas, in Staffordshire.

The group enjoyed a commentaryand tour around the Arboretum ona land train, while discovering thehistory of British soldiers who werekilled while serving their country.

“Some of our members strugglewith fatigue and mobility difficultiesfollowing brain injury and the traintour enabled all of us to see andhear about the memorials,” saidStephen Phipps, Chief Officer atHeadway Black Country.

“For the majority of our members,the visit to the beautifully-kept

arboretum was a first, and wewere not disappointed! We wouldlike to thank The Steve BullFoundation, which made our dayout possible with its very kinddonation. Our members cameaway with some fond memories.”

Getting activeMeanwhile, daring members ofHeadway Lancaster andMorecambe Bay took a more activeapproach to enjoying the fineweather by embarking on anaction-packed weekend break tothe Calvert Trust centre in Keswick.

Situated at the heart of the LakeDistrict’s National Park, The CalvertTrust centre is a residential outdoorfacility that provides adventureholidays for people with disabilities.A total of 29 Headway membersparticipated in a range of activitiesincluding horse riding, catamaransailing, archery and rock climbing.

Thankfully, keen photographerGeoff Sackville-Wiggins, whodiscovered the Headway group in2011 after a motorcycle accidentin 2009 left him with a traumaticbrain injury, was there to captureHeadway Black Country members enjoy tour of National Memorial Arboretum

Headway North Devon find the Lost Gardens of Heligan

despite sustaining a brain injury in anear-fatal cycling accident in 2005.

The following day, an ImprovingLife after Brain Injury conferenceplayed host to expert speakersfrom around the country whogathered to discuss key issuessurrounding rehabilitation, legalmatters and care after brain injury.Gordon Ashton OBE, a formerCourt of Protection judge,delivered the keynote address.

“Both Headway groups aredelighted to have been chosen byA Chance for Life as beneficiariesof the amazing fundraising effortscarried out at the conferencedinner,” said Glenys Marriott, Chairof Headway South Cumbria.

“We already receive enormoussupport from organiser LouiseChance and her dedicated teamat meetings of Headway SouthCumbria and we are delighted tobe a part of this conference.”

A Chance for Life

Autumn 2015 HeadwayNews


27

the activities on camera. “It was a great weekend,” said Geoff.“The trip also taught me not tounderestimate my abilities afterbrain injury.”

Janet Staff, Chair of HeadwayLancaster and Morecambe Bay,said: “It was great to see ourmembers throw themselves intothe activities and gain realenjoyment and satisfaction fromchallenging themselves, provingthat outdoor pursuits can beaccessible to everyone.” The tripwas made possible thanks to theDeputy Lieutenant of Lancashire,David Camm, who helped thegroup secure a generous grant of £5,000 from the Duchy ofLancaster Benevolent Fund, acharity that awards small grants to local causes.

DL Camm even came along forthe weekend to see firsthand thepositive impact participating inoutdoor pursuits can have uponHeadway service users.

Headway North Cumbria and Headway South Cumbria join with solicitorsand insurers for the A Chance for Life conference

Headway groups inCumbria are benefittingfrom funds raised at a

charity dinner and conferencehosted by a local casemanagement company.

Neuropsychologists, solicitors, andmembers of Headway’s NorthCumbria and South Cumbriagroups enjoyed an evening ofglamour at the first ever charitydinner organised by Penrith-basedbrain injury case manage-ment firmA Chance for Life.

The dinner, which was attendedby insurers and local businesses,included an Auction of Promisesthat raised £1,310 for HeadwayNorth Cumbria and an additional£1,100 for Headway SouthCumbria.

Former Paralympian Dave Padgenthen treated guests to amotivational after dinner speech.Dave was the first European withcerebral palsy to scale Kilimanjaro,

Headway Lancaster: The team puttingon their helmets before rock climbing inthe Lake District

Making a splash: Service user GeoffSackville-Wiggins photographs HeadwayLancaster and Morecambe Bay membersin action

Green-fingered members ofHeadway Cambridgeshirehave restored a hidden

hideaway after discovering aneglected walled garden behindtheir centre.

The Headway group’s HorticulturalTherapist, Simon Lacey, joinedforces with the local Sue RyderCare Hospice for the project,which aimed to produce a safespace where clients from both

How does your garden grow?

Autumn 2015HeadwayNews


28

Blooming beautiful: Members of Headway Cambridgeshire enjoy the tranquillity oftheir new walled garden

charities could relax and getcreative.

For the past 15 years the groundsof Thorpe Hall, which is shared bythe hospice and HeadwayCambridgeshire’s new Peter-borough hub, has been home tonothing more than weeds, bramblesand the occasional rabbit.

Using donations of equipmentfrom local businesses, 150

volunteers worked hard over threedays to shift 100 tonnes of soiland 40 tonnes of stone to bringthe initiative to fruition.

“We wanted to create anaccessible and therapeutic spacewhere clients could relax andengage with a purposeful socialenterprise,” said Simon. “It is across fertilisation of differentpeople working together for acommon purpose.”

The new garden will provide aplace for Headway Cambridgeshireand hospice clients to plant andgrow produce for the kitchens and,eventually, for a farm shop that willsell vegetables and flowers tovisitors of both charities.

In time, the walled garden willalso feature a potting area, fruitbushes, a greenhouse, and a longflower border full of perennials.

Mary Goode, Chief Executive ofHeadway Cambridgeshire, said:“We have seen how much benefitour clients have gained fromworking in the garden at our hubin Fulbourn. We wanted toreplicate this at Thorpe Hall.

“After brain injury, people oftenlose confidence or feel they can nolonger contribute as they once did.Growing produce they can cook,eat and even sell to raise moneyfor the charity is a valuable part ofthe process of rehabilitation.”

With work on the garden nowwell underway, the team hopes toreap its first harvest this autumn.

Before: Thorpe Hall was neglected and overgrown

As far as creative projectsgo this one clearly takesthe biscuit, with budding

wordsmiths at HeadwaySouthampton sinking their teethinto a new high-calorie poetryproject.

Every Tuesday, a nine-strong teamof Headway members, dubbed theBiscuit Poets, get together andtuck into a chosen pack of biscuitsbefore using the tasty treats asthe basis and inspiration forwriting snack-themed literature.

Fuelled by an obligatory pot oftea, the poets consider theproduct’s packaging along withthe biscuit’s appearance andtaste. As a group, the writers thendiscuss their thoughts beforeworking together to build theirbiscuit poem of the week.

Despite their efforts leaving themembers ‘cream-crackered’, theproject shows no signs ofcrumbling.

Recently, the Biscuit Poetsentertained an audience ofHeadway supporters andcorporate guests at an Evening ofInspiration arts event, hosted byIrwin Mitchell Solicitors at thefirm’s Southampton office.

The poets explained how theproject has helped their languagedevelopment after brain injury andrecited a host of funny and, onoccasion, poignant poems theyhad written together.

“The audience found the eveningincredibly inspiring, particularly

witnessing the strong sense ofteam spirit and camaraderiebetween the poets,” said Jo Hillier,Deputy Manager at HeadwaySouthampton and creator of theBiscuit Poets project.

“Our members have alwaysenjoyed a healthy side-helping oflively debate along with their teaand biscuits. The team soonthought ‘what better way torecord these thoughts andopinions than in a poem?’

“Their wonderful creations aresure to make you smile!”

The Biscuit Poets have plans toperform at corporate team buildingevents to inspire staff to worktogether to achieve their goals.

The popularity and appreciationfor these talented scribblers hasmeant they now have a blog,Facebook page, and even afollowing on Twitter.

Poets take the biscuit

29



Jammy dodgers: Jo, Terry, Shan, Denis, Olly, Lee, Jegan, Karl, Vicky

Oh lemon puff, oh lemon puff,Of you I just can’t get enough,Your tantalising citrus taste,Will put on inches around mywaist!

Choco Tommy CooperWore a fez upon his head,He bought it in MoroccoFrom a souk, he said.(Just like that! Well, almost...he had to haggle for it.)

Morning coffee biscuitsAre caffeine injections for my voicePropelling me to talk about brain injuryHow it changed my life and took away choice.

● If you or your organisation could benefit from some poeticinspiration, please contact Jo Hillier at Headway Southamptonon [email protected] or visit:www.biscuitpoetry.blogspot.co.uk

30



Rosemary splashes out for sponsorshipAmotivated lady from a

small village inBuckinghamshire who

sustained a devastating braininjury almost two decades agohas tackled a sponsored swim tothank Headway South Bucks forhelping to rebuild her life.

Rosemary Reynolds, 63 and fromBourne End, completed dailytraining to prepare for the one-mile swim, which took place onMonday 13 July at the MagnetCentre in Maidenhead to raisevital funds for the group.

In 1996, Rosemary’s husbandDavid received a life-changingphone call to say that his wife hadbeen taken inexplicably ill and,

while she remained conscious,she could not walk and requiredurgent medical attention.

Rosemary was rushed to hospitalwhere she was diagnosed ashaving sustained an anoxic braininjury, which occurs when thebrain is starved of oxygen. Littledid the family realise it wouldcause Rosemary to struggle withco-ordination, speech and otherdifficulties for years to come.

It was not until 2010 that Davidand Rosemary discoveredHeadway South Bucks andturned to the charity for support.

“When I first found HeadwaySouth Bucks I didn’t have a lot of

confidence and, even years onfrom my brain injury, I struggledwith speech and communicationproblems,” said Rosemary, whonow attends painting classes runby the local group.

“The Headway team has done atremendous job helping toimprove our quality of life. I hopemy sponsored swim raisesawareness of the invaluablelifeline the charity offers so thatothers similarly affected knowthey are not alone.”

And this is not the first time thecouple have got creative for thecause.

Several years ago, David raisedmore than £1,600 for HeadwaySouth Bucks by performing in acharity concert with the WycombePhilharmonic Choir, of which he isa member.

Jane Clarke, Chairman atHeadway South Bucks, said: “Weare enormously touched thatRosemary has taken on thispersonal challenge to raiseawareness of the services ourcharity offers. The couple’s effortsfor our charity have beenincredible.”

● To donate to Headway SouthBucks in Rosemary’s honour,contact the group on 01628850315 or visit www.headwaysouthbucks.org.uk

Rosemary and David with Headway the bear

31

General News


Dates for your Diary


September 2015Sunday 6th London to Brighton Cycle *

Sunday 13thGreat North Run *

Friday 18th – Sunday 20th Ben Nevis Trek *

Friday 25th – Sunday 27th Three Peaks Challenge *

October 2015Sunday 4th Cardiff Half Marathon *

Thursday 8th – Saturday 17th Kilimanjaro Trek *

Wednesday 14thDeputy Conference, Manchester *

Sunday 25thGreat South Run, Portsmouth *

* For further details of events, contact the fundraising team on 0115 924 0800.

For details of the training Headway can offer,contact Angela Palmer on 0115 947 1919 orvisit the Professionals section of the website fordescriptions of the courses available and theonline booking form.

Headway - the brain injury association isregistered with the Charity Commission forEngland and Wales (Charity No 1025852) andthe Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator(Charity No SC039992). Headway - the braininjury association is a company limited byguarantee Registered in England No. 2346893

Headway News welcomes contributions fromreaders. We are always pleased to receive articlesbut cannot guarantee that they will be published. Ifyou have any questions about writing an article,then please contact the communications team on0115 924 0800 or [email protected]

Winter 2015. Copy deadline: end OctoberPublished: early December

December 2015Friday 11th Annual Awards Lunch, The Dorchester, London *

March 2016Saturday 5th – Sunday 13th Sahara Trek *

April 2016Sunday 10thGreater Manchester Marathon *

Sunday 24th Virgin Money London Marathon *

July 2016Wednesday 20th – Sunday 24thLondon to Paris Cycle –Tour de France Special *

Autumn 2015 £2.25 HeadwayNews Me and my new brain · 2015-10-27 · Autumn 2015 HeadwayNews 3...

Documents

Transcript of Autumn 2015 £2.25 HeadwayNews Me and my new brain · 2015-10-27 · Autumn 2015 HeadwayNews 3...