A state affiliate of the Brain Injury Association of America HEADLINES WINTER 2008-2009 In this issue: ‘Tis the Season of Gifts, Perspective from Executive Director Giving and Gratitude David King By Laura Fenstermaker and optimism to those who might Page 3 Melissa Albert otherwise be feeling a bit more pessimistic. Even with a perilous One doesn’t have to look economy, the grim news of News Briefs very far for signs of the season 533,000 jobs lost in October and of giving: the Salvation Army’s November of the fourth quarter Page 4 bell ringers are out with their of this year, homelessness and red kettles; giving trees are up at record numbers of Americans schools, churches and businesses losing their homes to foreclosure, Education Corner so that individuals can help a hope is always around the corner. Page 5 child’s dream of dolls, DVDs, Contributions and good deeds by toys and clothes come true; and individuals do happen, especially donation requests from various during challenging times and, it Volunteer Corner organizations have hit mail boxes. is people like you who bring this holiday season, compared with 60 Page 6 This year, please include the Brain hope to so many individuals in percent last year.” Results from a Injury Association of Minnesota need. second survey in the publication on your list of charitable The November 26 issue of found that individuals “were more Legislative Corner organizations to receive your The Chronicle of Philanthropy likely to give a ‘charitable gift’ as Page 7 support. shared the results of a recent a holiday present.” The beauty and wonder of study and found that “73 percent Recently on Minnesota Public philanthropic generosity during of Americans intend to make Radio’s Market Place Report, the holidays lends hope and charitable contributions this Gifts, Giving and Gratitude continues on page  Walk for Thought Page 8 The Person I Always Was Twins Night at the Dome By Phil Gonzales blocked. More operations Page 9 were required. Rebecca Glassing was never As a result, Rebecca ended one to sit still. up having a double stroke Fending Off Holiday “I’d get up in the morning, and losing her eyesight. pack my bag for ball after work, She was put into a medical Depression spend the day at work, go out induced coma for two weeks Page 10 and play ball, get home at night, and when she woke up, “I throw my bag to the side, get up had no clue what had gone the next morning, pack a new bag on. I had no short term Donor Spotlight – I was constantly on the go. I was memory. No one told me Rebecca Glassing Page 11 never home. People would say to right away I’d lost my sight. Photo by Phil Gonzales my parents, ‘Becky’s still living They wouldn’t give me my blind.’ And then, I told her where at home,’ and they’d say, ‘She glasses. Finally, a neurologist she could stick it.” sleeps here, this is her address, she came in and told me, ‘You just Rebecca’s tumor was a doesn’t live here.’ Now, I’m home have to accept the fact that you’re meningioma, a type of tumor that all the time.” The Person I Always Was, continues on page 10 In February 2007, after being rear ended by a car, a golf ball- Brain Injury sized tumor was found above Association of Rebecca’s left eye. It was an Minnesota helpline: unexpected discovery, but one that 612-378-2742 34 13th Ave NE, Suite B001 800-669-6442 made certain elements of her life Minneapolis, MN 55413 make sense. Time Dated Material www.braininjurymn.org “My mood swings used to be so bad. I always knew that Change Service Requested there was something not right,” she says, “I had been having RECYCLE NOW! headaches and I’d always had Do you have a friend, loved backaches.” one or colleague who could Doctor’s were amazed, due benefit from this newsletter? If so, pass it on to the size and location of the or call the Brain tumor, that she had been able to Injury Association walk into the hospital. After an of Minnesota and eight-hour surgery more trouble have one mailed was discovered. Her brain was to them. so swollen her ventricles were HEADLINES WINTER 2008-2009 page 

34 13th Avenue Northeast, Suite B001 JOIN us today to Minneapolis, MN 55413 612-378-2742 • 800-669-6442 CHANGE tomorrow! Fax: 612-378-2789 Every 23 seconds, one person in the United States sustains a traumatic www.braininjurymn.org brain injury. The Brain Injury Association of Minnesota is the only E-mail: [email protected] statewide nonprofit dedicated to helping people navigate life after brain injury. Mission The mission of the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota is to enhance Please join us to raise awareness and provide help, hope and a voice the quality of life and bring the promise of a better tomorrow for all to the thousands of Minnesotans affected by brain injury. people affected by brain injury. Any commitment you can make – from volunteering to becoming a Board of Directors Citizen Advocate to sharing your story through the media – can help Kate Shannon, Board Chair Gwyn Leder enhance the quality of life and bring the promise of a better tomorrow Veronica Anderson Craig Martinson for all people affected by brain injury. Dick Bloom Jim Mellor Simply fill out the section below and mail it to the Brain Injury Alta Bruce Russ Philstrom Emily Fuerste Association of Minnesota at 34 13th Ave. NE, Suite B001, Bridget Paulson-Nagel Paul Godlewski, Chair Elect Jean Radeztsky Minneapolis, Minnesota 55413 to get started today. Sandy Kasprzak Tim Rundall Name: ______David Kendrick Dave Scott David King, Executive Director Address: ______Quincy Stroeing Andrew Kiragu, M.D. Terri Traudt City: ______State: ______Zip: ______Kathy Larson Mohsin Zafar Brain Injury Association of Minnesota Staff Phone: ______Melissa Albert Wendy Hoffman Development Manager Resource Facilitator E-mail: ______Britta Anderson Kristen Huehbner Case Manager Case Manager  Subscribe me to the bi-weekly Headlines Online e-newsletter, Christy Austin Becky Jurek which is filled with up-to-date information of interest to the Case Manager Case Manager brain injury community (e-mail address required above) Lesley Babb Pete Klinkhammer Resource Facilitator Associate Director of Services Please send me information about: Jessica Belland Karen Karki  Membership Case Manager Case Manager  Resource Facilitation program Breanna Berthelsen David King Education Specialist Executive Director  Case Management program Andi Billig Christina Kollman  Educational opportunities Graphic Designer Resource Facilitation Manager  Raye Black Cynthia Langr Public Policy opportunities Multicultural Outreach Manager Case Aide  Multicultural Support program Jessica Bullock Pat Marciniak  Volunteering opportunities Administrative Assistant Public Awareness Director Jenny Lee Chang Jeff Nachbar  Peer/Mentor Support Connection program Case Manager Public Policy Director  Public Awareness opportunities Sharon Christensen Tracey Nukala  Donating, Planned Giving or Contributing Resource Facilitator Resource Facilitator Kathryn Jones Clark Sara Podein  Internships Resource Facilitator Case Manager Brad Donaldson Sara Schlegelmilch Associate Director of Operations Manager, Case Management Debbi Erickson Brad Scott Office Manager Case Manager Laura Fenstermaker Jenna Senger Associate Director of Case Manager Development & Communications Beth Skwira Kate Franklin Development Associate Resource Facilitator Jackie Thom Lee George Admin Billing Specialist Volunteer Manager Jill Tilbury Phil Gonzales Senior Case Manager Public Awareness Associate Andrea Thorson Michelle Gray Administrative Assistant Public Policy Aide Txing Vang Brad Hall Resource Facilitator Case Manager Janice Webster Michelle Hempel Resource Facilitator Administrative Assistant Janet Westlund Case Manager Editorial Policy Headlines is published quarterly by the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota. The editor reserves the right to edit submitted materials for style and space. The Brain Injury Association of Minnesota does not endorse, support, or recommend any specific method, facility, treatment, program, or support group for persons with brain injury and their families. Please call for advertising rates. Letters to the Editor Policy Letters to the Editor should be limited to 300 words. Letters may be edited for spelling, grammar and length. In order for letters to be considered, please include your name, address and the daytime phone number of the author. The Brain Injury Association of Minnesota reserves the right to refuse letters for publication, and submission of material does not guarantee publication. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are solely those of the author and do not represent the opinions or positions of the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota. WINTER 2008-2009 HEADLINES page  PERSPECTIVE

and prevention to thousands of Our Walk for Thought featured – in the number of individuals individuals and families in our former Minnesota Twins third served through our resource community. The Association baseman Corey Koskie, who facilitation and case management was also featured on WCCO was this year’s Ambassador and programs as well as outreach to TV as part of these activities Honorary Chair. Koskie appeared underserved communities. These and our staff and partners were on our behalf on numerous media successes are the results of many seen answering phones by over interviews promoting the Walk dedicated staff, volunteers, board 200,000 people. and telling his own inspiring members, consumers and families. The 23rd Annual Conference story of brain injury. Don Shelby, It is exciting to look back and for Professionals in Brain Injury WCCO TV anchor and radio reflect upon such great outcomes. was also a success, thanks in part host not only emceed the pre- Supporting our work are the Greetings, Headlines readers. to a celebrated appearance by Walk event but also promoted the generous contributors who give It’s hard for me to believe that I Trisha Meili, author of the book, I event and brain injury awareness a much-needed monetary gift have been at this job for nearly a Am The Central Park Jogger. through radio PSA’s and personal to the Association. Asking for half a year. During this period, I In May, the legislative session promotions on both TV and radio. contributions to help us sustain have delved into and examined wrapped up and although we had a To complement all of these the organization and its programs all the areas of the Association. few disappointments – budget cuts activities Dave St. Peter, president is never easy. However, with I continue to devour as much to Health and Human Services of the Minnesota Twins, and Mark the holiday season upon us and information as possible, as we and the failure to pass primary Rosen, WCCO TV sports director messages of charitable giving move ahead to another year. We seatbelt language in a Conference and anchor, took to the stage to talked about on TV, in print have had such a successful 2008 Committee report – we also had speak on their involvement with and on the airwaves, I would that thinking strategically about some significant accomplishments. the Brain Injury Association of ask that you please think of the how to build on these successes The most notable is that the Minnesota. Our partnership with Association. is critically important. I continue Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory the Minnesota Twins helped raised As we all know, brain injury to marvel at the devoted staff, Committee of the Department of awareness for the Association does not discriminate. Any one volunteers and board members, Human Services was extended to and brain injuries, in addition to of us could sustain a life-altering who really make this Association 2012. promoting the Walk through Brain brain injury at any time. So, the best. None of this would have been Injury Awareness Night at the please, give what you can this After a productive 2007, this possible without the tireless Dome in September. The Walk, year. Your contributions will year, staff hit the ground running. efforts of our public policy which broke a new fundraising ensure that all Minnesotans will We kicked off 2008 with March staff and the involvement of record, had more participants and continue to have access to our Brain Injury Awareness Month, well-trained citizen advocates. reached a greater audience than education, services and supports. with campaigns that involved These individuals dedicate their ever before. Hennepin County Medical time, energy and passion to help Honestly, we have been Center, Bethesda Hospital and champion the message of brain fortunate. We have not only the Minnesota Timberwolves. injury awareness and prevention thrived this year, but grown in These campaigns helped bring to our legislators. significant and measurable ways our message of brain injury

body unable to communicate. Can for granted those who love us I am not suggesting that we live you guess what he most regrets? unconditionally, because by our life in service to others; that It is not any personal failures or definition, it is for granted. Habit places an uncomfortable burden missteps, it is all the things he and rhythm allow us to slide into on those others. We should make didn’t do; all the things he never comfortable arrangements and their burdens lighter by showing bothered to do. because we don’t have to, and gratitude and humility for the I often think about what my don’t need to, we never say how things they do for us. When we final thoughts would be; and we feel. Then, one day we’re labor at a thankless task, it is not invariably it is that I want to tell gone and we never said what we the task that encumbers us, it is those I love how much they mean wanted to say. As my best friend the thanklessness. We may not to me. My only regrets would be in high school, Gene Marmon, always be able to be of service to the things I never said to those I used to say when faced with such others anyway, but all of us have More from the cared most about. When I lay down a conundrum, “what’s a mother to challenges that we can bear more at night and imagine that I close do?” easily with the help of others. Diving Bell my eyes finally, the only thing I The “thing to do” is to live your This is where gratitude comes I just finished readingThen and want to make sure I do before I die life consciously, to make sure that in. We “pay” for these services Now by W. Somerset Maugham. is make sure my loved ones know you do things out of love and not with gratitude, and true heartfelt Machiavelli, the main character in that they are, in fact, my loved mere habit or obligation. Embrace gratitude is as good as gold. If I that book, observes that it is not ones. the time you spend together with live my life this way, then I can what we’ve done that we regret The way to do this is not to your loved ones. rest in peace. most, but what we haven’t done. walk around telling everyone that There is a saying that you You may have noticed, I read a lot. is close to me that I love them should live everyday as if it is your I try to find one thing in every book and that they mean a lot to me; last. Those of us with a brain injury I read that is worth noting. That that is nice every once in a while, are aware of that on a level that was what I chose from that book but if that is all I did, they would only we know. We have lived our and then a day later I’m watching soon think, I was insecure or last day, and like Jean-Dominique the movie The Diving Bell and disingenuous. The right way to do Baube, we know what it is like to the Butterfly about a man, Jean- this is to live the way I feel. regret what we didn’t do when we Dominique Baube, trapped in his It is very natural to take had the chance. HEADLINES WINTER 2008-2009 page  NEWS BRIEFS

What’s new at the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota and in the brain injury community By Pat Marciniak merit and people were hearing the commercial messages throughout me feel good about life.” When Walk and Corey Koskie talked the season were heard along with 26 reporting on stories of athletes, Getting the Brain Injury Association about on just about every Twin sponsorship billboards. Rosen always focuses on the of Minnesota’s message out to the Cities radio station as well as a To saturate the entire news media positives of that individual and their public is an important part of our write up on the Minnesota Wild market, a display ad promoting abilities first and disability second. mission. Here’s where you may online Bulletin Board. Media reach our Walk and highlighting Koskie On November 6, 2008, Rosen have seen us in the past months. even included an interview with and Shelby debuted in September was presented with the award Late summer and fall presented Koskie on WMEQ Sports Radio in to attract walkers, donors and at a special awards luncheon many great opportunities through Eau Claire, WI. raise awareness about brain injury. celebrating the 35th Anniversary two big events for the Association, Our awareness reach also was These ads ran in the Star Tribune, of the Minnesota State Council on the Walk for Thought and Brain seen on WCCO TV in September St. Paul Pioneer Press and City Disability. Attending the luncheon Injury Awareness Night at the with an in-depth special report on Pages. were Rosen’s proud mother, Metrodome with the Minnesota brain injury told through health The media generated during this Doris and Pat Marciniak from the Twins. In conjunction with these reporter and anchor, Dennis Douda period reached over 15,341,413 Association. events, the Association participated on the 10 p.m. newscast. This individuals with our message on His story on Justin Greenwood in media stories, radio public feature included an interview with brain injury awareness and the Walk also won Rosen a celebrated local service announcements (PSA’s) and Dr. Gaylan Rockswold (Hennepin for Thought through broadcast, Associated Press Award for Sports marketing activities. In addition County Medical Center), Dr. print and the Minnesota Twins, our Excellence. to general media stories, Corey Kenneth Britton (Bethesda), Pat biggest reach ever! We congratulate Mark on these Koskie, our 2008 Walk for Thought Marciniak and the Leticia Harnung achievements and thank him for Honorary Chair and Ambassador family. The video of this Media Awards being a special partner and friend and Don Shelby of WCCO TV special feature and a link Mark Rosen of the Brain Injury Association of and radio helped us raise awareness to our Web site will be Receives Media Minnesota through his media stories and prevention messages about archived for many years Honor from and participation at the Walk for brain injury and promote name on WCCO’s Web site. The Minnesota State Thought. recognition through TV and radio Walk for Thought was Council on media. also promoted along with Disability Dennis Douda Presented with Don Shelby as our Walk This fall the Association Media Award In the Media emcee. Shelby and Mark Association Dennis Douda, WCCO TV PSA’s recorded by Don Shelby Rosen also talked about Mark Rosen nominated Mark health reporter and anchor helps and Corey Koskie ran during the their involvement in the Photo by Pat Marciniak Rosen, WCCO the Brain Injury Association of month of September through our Walk during the 10 p.m. newscast TV sports director, anchor and Minnesota tell their story to viewers Media Sponsor WCCO radio and we received day of coverage of reporter for the 2009 Minnesota through individuals who live with as well as live reads throughout the Walk and pre-Walk show. State Council on Disability Media a disability due to brain injury. His the month to promote the Walk. Fox 9 News interviewed Brad Award based on his effective special reports bring awareness The Association also had the Donaldson, of the Brain Injury portrayal of people with and prevention opportunity through WCCO radio Association of Minnesota, for a disabilities, focusing messages on brain to honor volunteers from the follow-up story on brain injury, first on the person injury to viewers Association and professionals who which included mention of our and secondly on their and helps connect are instrumental to our success Walk. The story featured Kaley disability. Rosen’s individuals to for two weeks of Good Neighbor Theis, a high school senior who nomination was based needed services awards. experienced a brain injury and on a special feature provided by the Through telling his own also joined our Walk with her own he did on Association Association. The inspirational story with brain injury team. KARE 11 promoted the volunteer, Justin Dennis Douda and Pat Marciniak Association honored Koskie was popular with the radio Walk and Koskie’s involvement on Greenwood, focusing Photo by Andi Billig Douda in September and TV circuit with his awareness both Coffee with KARE and their on Greenwood’s strengths, positive with a plaque for bringing message and promotion of the Walk Sunday Sports Final Show. Our attitude and independence. Rosen awareness to brain injuries through and the Association. Interviews stories reached over two million said “being around Justin just made his reporting. were heard by more than 10 million viewers in September. listeners and viewers, which In addition, Walk for Thought included WCCO radio on the Don spots voiced by Koskie were heard Shelby Show, Dave Lee Morning on KFAN and KOOL 108 along Show and Mike Max Sports Show; with additional spots on KZJK. KFAN on the PA and Dubay Show Our year long prevention and as well as the Mike Morris Power awareness message on KFAN Trip Show, which included Pat and KFXM Sports Radio also Marciniak; WCCO TV on Rosen continued from late August Sports Sunday and Twins Live Pre- through late November. These game show with Marney Gillner on spots were recorded by Glenda FSN North. Greenwood, mother of injured Other media included interviews athlete and Association volunteer with Dr. Erwin Concepcion, David Justin Greenwood, with a personal King and Pat Marciniak on the approach aimed at an audience of Northern Lights Community Affairs parents, athletes and coaches for Program, which aired twice in KFAN and KFXM Sports radio September on WLTE 102.9 FM during the High School Football and KZJK-HD pure jazz. Media Scoreboard Show and Prep Bowl stories also circulated on their own Championship games. Over sixty WINTER 2008-2009 HEADLINES page  Education Corner This fall, education team Brain Injury Basics (BIB) members have continued their classes have continued to be outreach efforts by providing a offered at Bethesda Hospital in variety of learning opportunities. St. Paul, as well as Wednesday For example, staff has reached Workshops at the offices of the out to coaches and sports trainers Brain Injury Association. Topics at Bethesda’s Sports Concussion included: Disability Law and Conference, public safety officers Legal Aid, Self-regulation after at the “Towards Zero Death” Traumatic Brain Injury, and Conference, as well as to social Pediatric Brain Injury. workers, rehabilitation specialists, Education Services provides on- and county workers at the St. Louis site training sessions for providers County Health and Human Service throughout Minnesota with content Conference in Duluth. customized to fit the interests and Presentations to professionals needs of the providers. If your staff have continued throughout the are new to servicing people living quarter on brain injury resulting with brain injury or if you would from Shaken Baby Syndrome and like to learn more on a specific Domestic Violence. In addition, topic related to brain injury (i.e. customized educational workshops shaken baby syndrome, domestic were presented to a vast array of violence, supported employment) constituencies, including special call Breanna Berthelsen to schedule education teachers in Somerset, a training session at 612-378-2742 WI, Chemical Dependency or 800-669-6442. Counselors in the Twin Cities, Also, please visit the professionals and families in Association’s Web site at Willmar and to an audience at the www.brainjurymn.org for Human Rights Day Conference and information about classes and other Forum on the ADA and returning information about the Brain Injury veterans with TBI. Association of Minnesota. HEADLINES WINTER 2008-2009 page  Volunteer Corner By Lee George individuals to answer questions Volunteer Opportunities Ways to get involved at the about polling place locations and While the Brain Injury Brain Injury Association of Association Volunteer accessibility, individual voter Association of Minnesota always Minnesota: Phone Bank rights and offering a free ride to has many volunteer opportunities, According to the Corporation the polls if one was needed. Thank they might not be quite what • Become a Resource Facilitation for National and Community you to the group of volunteers you are looking for. Fortunately, volunteer and help ensure Service, Minnesota is ranked who spent an evening helping many volunteer organizations quality services and supports third in volunteerism in the nation individuals with disability exercise exist to help you find a position are getting to those who need with 1.6 million volunteers last their rights! that suits your needs. This is the them. year. Minneapolis and Saint Paul Thank you to everyone who perfect opportunity to act as an • Attend a Brain Injury Basics are ranked made this ambassador for individuals class and invite a friend number one evening affected by brain or family member to of all major a great injury. Volunteer come along. cities. This is success with an organization • Help find a due, in part, and who and share your venue for one to the massive also experience on brain of our trained amount of helped injury. Spreading speakers to volunteer make this awareness through share their opportunities the most personal experience experience on throughout attended is one way of brain injury. our state national advocating for yourself • If you are a On Volunteer Robyn Delovely working at the 2008 election and individuals with brain student, consider November Get-out-the-Vote phone bank. in recent injury. becoming an intern 3, a group of Photo by Lee George history. Some places to look for during the upcoming semester. volunteers met at the Brain Injury Volunteering truly changes the great volunteer opportunities Association of Minnesota offices world, whether by bringing food are the Brain Injury If you are interested in any in order to ensure that individuals to the hungry, donating blood, Association of Minnesota of these opportunities or have affected by brain injury were mentoring children or helping in Web site, volunteermatch.org, questions about how to get able to vote on Election Day. local election offices. handsontwincities.org, and involved, please contact Lee George Volunteers called hundreds of idealist.org. at [email protected] or call 612-378-2742 or 800-669-6442. WINTER 2008-2009 HEADLINES page  Legislative Corner

Keeping up to date with public policy Elections Are Over: Now What? By Jeff will be about protecting important election years of all times has quality and array of programs Nachbar programs rather than seeking been quite an adventure! I joined and services available to people and additional resources to improve Jeff Nachbar just in time to help with disabilities. The Community Michelle or expand existing services. If plan election activities including Practice Master of Social Work Gray past history is any indication, voter registration and Get-out- program at the University we expect the Governor’s initial the-Vote phone banking. We also of Minnesota offered many Now that the 2008 elections budget proposal to have steep co-organized a number of state opportunities to learn from both are over and it is safe to watch TV cuts in health and human services and federal candidate forums seasoned social workers and again, you might be wondering spending when it comes out in late throughout the state, creating community organizers. This what happens next. There is no January. Given the state of the US an opportunity for people with created a balance of compassion doubt that the 2008 elections were economy, it is unlikely the situation disabilities and their support and civic engagement tools and a historic event; one you will be will be much better when the network to engage with Minnesota ideas from which to draw upon. able to tell your children and their official budget forecast is released candidates about disability issues I am sincerely grateful for children that you were part of. But in early March. That is when the important to them. the opportunity to use my direct remember, politics and Democracy budget battle will really begin for My direct practice experience practice and graduate experience are about much more than election policy makers. in both day-training/habilitation to enable individuals affected by winners and losers; they are about This is the political reality we and residential programs for brain injury to use their personal how we make collective decisions face going into next year. It is individuals facing physical experience to become engaged as a society. Whether Democrat, absolutely critical that we act now or developmental disabilities, in the political process. I have Republican or Independent, we all to let our legislators know how acquired or traumatic brain enjoyed every minute of my time have a lot at stake in the coming each and every one of these critical injuries, or mental health issues at the Brain Injury Association years and no single individual or programs impacts the quality of has kept me alert to the political of Minnesota thus far, and look party has all the answers. We need life for people with brain injury climate in Minnesota and to forward to the challenges and as many voices at the table as and their families. It is up to each how state policies shape the successes that lie ahead! possible to ensure smart decisions of you to help us protect the most are made, especially in these vital services you or your family troubling economic times. receive by making it “real” for In state elections, the policy makers. It can’t just be entire Minnesota House of about abstract formulas, budget Representatives and a couple of percentages or political rhetoric. open Senate seats were up for Politics is personal, it’s about re-election in 2008. Republicans relationships. We are here to help won a few Democratic seats and you and will do everything we can, Democrats won a few Republican but we can’t do it without you. If seats. There will be 23 new faces, you want to help tell your story and but the overall party balance make it “real” for legislators, please remains close to what it was last get in touch with Jeff Nachbar session; so we do not expect at [email protected] or too many changes in committee Michelle Gray at michelleg@ structure or leadership. braininjurymn.org. You can also The critical issue going into sign-up on line at capwiz.com/ 2009 is Minnesota’s state budget. braininjurymn or call us at By the time the State Legislature 612-378-2742 or 800-669-6442. adjourns in May, assuming we don’t experience another Welcome Michelle Gray government shutdown, Minnesota Hello, my name is Michelle will have set its budget through Gray and I am just one of the June 30, 2011. This means the many new faces here at the Brain next few months will be critical, Injury Association of Minnesota! I as legislators make decisions joined the Association as a public about state spending on programs policy aide this past September, that impact individuals with brain and am absolutely thrilled to injury and their loved ones for be working in an environment years to come. where public policy advocacy Of course, spending on is considered such a vital and programs that impact people with successful component of the brain injury is only part of the organization. I have enjoyed overall budget. Each individual getting to know the many budget decision must consider the compassionate and hardworking state budget as a whole. Unlike Association staff, board members, the Federal Government, the state volunteers, and other supporters. must “balance its books” each As you can probably imagine, budget cycle. Since Minnesota is joining the Association just a currently facing a five billion dollar few months prior to one of the budget deficit, the battle in 2009 most exciting and engaging HEADLINES WINTER 2008-2009 page  The Sky is the Limit: This Year’s Walk for Thought By Laura Fenstermaker, Phil of factors contributed to this volunteers. You are the Walk. Your Each top fundraiser received a Gonzales and Melissa Albert success, including a hardworking passion for brain injury awareness fabulous prize for all of their hard and passionate committee, many, and education unites all 2,029 work. I am a proud TBI veteran and want tireless volunteers, dedicated staff of you into a force for change in Tina Hansen was the highest the world to know what we can do. and you! Without you, this event Minnesota and the nation. team fundraiser in Duluth and — Walk for Thought participant would not be possible. Thank you Naomi Nienow was the highest for helping to spread awareness Walk for Thought team team fundraiser in Rochester with This year’s Walk for Thought about brain injury across shout-outs $1,172. was the most successful to Minnesota. Each team at this year’s Walk TBI Titans had the largest date. Thanks to the over 2,000 The money raised at the Walk helped make this an amazingly team at any of the Walks with 90 enthusiastic participants, which for Thought helps to sustain the successful event. We would like to participants! Way to go Titans. included, people with brain Association and secures the delivery take this time to single out a few Thank you for spreading the word! injury, their families and friends, of its many services to individuals teams and individuals who stood Teams raising over $3,500 were providers, supporters and staff, in communities across Minnesota. out among the greatness: Dragonfly Clan and If I Only Had we were able to significantly It helps finance new programs and Leticia’s Angels team was a Cast, while Amy’s Team, Team surpass our fundraising goals, as expands existing ones. The visibility the highest team fundraiser with Nichole, Team Teddy and TBI well as heighten awareness like helps to educate and inform people $7,525 raised. Team captain Titans each brought in over $3,000. never before about brain injury about brain injury; an otherwise Leticia Harnung also stands out as Congratulations to the entire throughout Minnesota. Together silent epidemic. The many stories the highest individual fundraiser. Walk for Thought participants. in St. Paul, Duluth and Rochester, that were heard on the radio and Congratulations and thank you, Each and every dollar raised brings people attended the Walk for television by the community at Leticia’s Angels. the Association one step closer to Thought to meet, share stories, and large create an understanding making sure no one with a brain enjoy a beautiful day together. among those never exposed to Our top individual injury gets left behind. Thank you. This year’s phenomenal the information that brain injury fundraisers overall were success of 2,029 participants affects us all. Brain Injury does not • Leticia Harnung ($6,550) and $153,918.49 raised is a 65 discriminate. It can happen to any • Tina Hansen ($2,657) percent increase in attendance one of us at any time. • Terri Traudt ($2,590) and a 48 percent increase in So, thank you and • Tim Rotz ($2,245) dollars raised from last year. congratulations, Walk for Thought • Luann Borresen ($2,215) Incredible! We believe a number participants, supporters and • Craig Martinson ($2,095)

Photos by Dale Erickson, Hanke Heun-Johnson, Jo & Mike Maggert, Sonja Mersch, Tamara Sadlo and Steve Skarie WINTER 2008-2009 HEADLINES page  Minnesota Twins and Corey Koskie Team Up for Brain Injury Awareness Night at the Dome By Pat Marciniak pennant race with the Chicago Bryan Donaldson to Association Twins included our Walk PSA White Sox on September 24. Executive Director David King. on their 72 station Twins Radio A major impact for the Walk Koskie was on hand to greet Corey Koskie, former Minnesota Network (heard throughout five for Thought and the Association staff and families, sign autographs Twins third baseman also was states) which included KSTP 1500 was our partnership with the and take photographs prior to the featured as the Walk for Thought locally during all 23 games in Minnesota Twins. The Twins took pre-game show which featured the Honorary Chair. Through televised September. an active role in partnering with Association and families helped interviews on FSN North and a live The Association’s phone lines the Association to provide public by the Association. Everyone was interview with Dick and Bert in the never stopped ringing after that awareness about brain injury, which led onto the field while a 60- announcer’s booth Koskie talked September night! Thank you not only affects athletes but people second video presentation about about his personal experience Minnesota Twins organization, from all walks of life. Together the Association played along with with brain injury, his mission to especially Dave St. Peter, President; with Corey Koskie the Twins went live and screen billboard PSA’s bring awareness and help others Kevin Smith, Executive Director to bat for people with brain injuries about the Association. The pre- who live with a disability due to and Bryan Donaldson, Director of and featured the Association during game show culminated with a a brain injury and invited viewers Community Relations for making a pre-game show at one of the check presentation for $2,500 from to join his Walk team and make a a difference on behalf of the biggest home games ever with the Minnesota Twins presented by donation. Association and the community. the Minnesota Twins in a heated Community Relations Director, In addition The Minnesota

Photos by Jay Bowden and Andi Billig HEADLINES WINTER 2008-2009 page 10 The Person I Always Was, continued from page  Yeah, that kind of got put to the the Speakers Bureau at the brain injury awareness throughout grows, not on the brain, but on side.” Brain Injury Association of Minnesota by sharing their the lining of the brain. It disrupts Learning to navigate her Minnesota, a program that offers personal stories. normal functioning by applying environment, use a computer and an opportunity for volunteers Rebecca says she wants people continuing pressure as it grows. read Braille have been difficult who are interested in public to learn the importance of taking According to the American Brain challenges for Rebecca. Part speaking and empowerment, learn care of their health. “Listen to Tumor Association, meningioma’s of what keeps her going is the through education to raise public your body. If you feel something account for 27 percent of all support of her parents and her awareness about brain injury in is not right and your doctor tells primary brain tumors and occur desire to educate and help others. their own community. “I really you everything is all right and most frequently in women. A “I’m always about humor. want to tell my story and educate you still feel like something is not meningioma’s slow growth can I can tell when people are the public. I’d much rather have right, go to the next one.” account for its late detection as uncomfortable so I crack jokes. If people be aware than be afraid.” Rebecca is learning more every symptoms appear gradually over a you want to know more, ask me The Association founded day about her injury. “It’s all person’s lifetime. questions. I’d much rather you ask its Speakers Bureau in 2006, about stimulation, retraining the “They figure I was born with me and be honest with me than as an extension of its growing brain. A lot of stimulation, a lot it,” Rebecca says, “but they have have you be uncomfortable or not Volunteer program. Today, the of prayers and just hoping to God no way of knowing.” sure if it’s a touchy subject. I’d Association has 24 trained it gets better. I’m now the person Rebecca’s life had been much rather be honest with people speakers and a history of well I always knew that I was, but I turned upside-down. Suddenly, and I’d much rather people be received appearances throughout always had something hanging this Hamline graduate, who was honest with me. I have no problem Minnesota. Speakers are trained to over me without knowing what it accustomed to spending evenings talking about it. To me it’s like, present to private organizations, was.” out with her friends, and who was that was my past life and this is professionals, social groups and only four months into a new job, my new chance.” schools. Although each person had to adjust to her altered life. Rebecca has taken that has a different story, the speakers “I was saving up to buy a house. new chance and used it to join are united in a desire to increase

Fending Off Holiday Depression By Christina Kollman sometimes by well-meaning to feel sad during the holidays. • Enjoy holiday activities in friends and families. This year can Many people do. It is important to your community that are free The holiday season can be a great opportunity for you to know the signs and symptoms of or discounted. bring out the highs and lows of choose what the holidays mean to depression so you can seek help. • Try a new holiday tradition. the human experience due to you and what is most important. According to the Diagnostic • Spend time with positive, expectations met and unmet. Often this means sitting down with and Statistical Manual of Mental supportive people. During times of difficult pen and paper to help you re-frame Disorders (DSM-IV), depression • Help others, volunteer during adjustment, the holidays can your holiday experience. It will is diagnosed when five or more the holidays. There are many remind people of changes and be important for you to share your of the following symptoms of people in your community who losses in their thoughts with depression are present for most will appreciate your time. For life since brain the people in of the day, nearly every day for metro opportunities contact injury. No your support at least two weeks. At least one Hands on Twin Cities at matter what network of the symptoms must be either 612-379-4900 or visit their holiday tradition so they persistent sad or “empty” feelings Web site at http://www. you and your understand or loss of interest in activities. handsontwincities.org/. You loved ones are potential can also reach Lee George, observing, it can changes. You • Constant sadness the Brain Injury Association’s be important to may want to • Irritability volunteer manager for let this holiday season be its own be the leader in your family this • Hopelessness volunteer opportunities in the unique experience. Holding up year, by offering a new holiday • Trouble sleeping office. today to yesterday’s expectations tradition. • Low energy or fatigue • Make a conscious effort to can trigger frustration, sadness and One small benefit of the current • Feeling worthless or guilty for make “you time.” To recharge holiday depression. economic situation is that it allows no reason your batteries. Individuals with brain injury people to cut back. These days it • Significant weight change • Be aware that excessive often experience a change in their is a certainty that family members • Difficulty concentrating drinking will only make ability to work full-time, which will need to cut back on holiday • Loss of interest in favorite depression worse. impacts how much of one’s budget spending, as most people have activities can be dedicated to gift giving. been impacted by the sluggish For help finding counseling A person who once was a social economy. It can be helpful to let To help you cope with the services or support groups please butterfly who organized elaborate go of feelings of guilt and shame holidays: call The Brain Injury Association family events may find they for not splurging like you once of Minnesota and ask to speak are now overwhelmed by large did. This does not mean you do • Tame your expectations, with a Resource Facilitator at boisterous groups; and the task not reach out to your loved ones keep your social calendar 612-378-2742 or 800-669-6442. of organizing parties can be very with kind sentiments and warm manageable. If you or someone you know is mentally taxing. The addition of gestures. It does mean that you • Plan for the holidays; reach in crisis or thinking of hurting the rich diet that comes with the prioritize how you will spend your out to friends or families to themselves, please call 911. If you holidays and the lack of sunshine money and time. create an event you would need someone to talk to, you can (also known as seasonal affective It is important to remember that enjoy. If you are working with call the Crisis Connection 24 hours disorder) can create a recipe for depression, anxiety and Seasonal a counselor and know the a day at 612-379-6363 or the blues. Affective Disorder (SAD) are holidays are challenging, make 866-379-6363. Letting this holiday season be treatable conditions. Feeling and keep your appointment. a new season can be a challenge. blue during the holidays can be • Be realistic about your stamina We are constantly being told especially overwhelming because level. If you know you have what is expected of us during everywhere we turn we see people to be in bed by 8 p.m., do not the holidays by the flyers in smiling and happy. It is good agree to attend a party at 9 papers, commercials on TV and to know it is okay and normal p.m. WINTER 2008-2009 HEADLINES page 11 Donor Spotlight

Why They Give By Beth Skwira “employees wore their T-shirts Gear by packaging, labeling, etc., In March of 2008, Focus Gear and hoodies to work, and all of giving them an opportunity to gain unveiled addition shirt designs Their mantra is simple… our clients wore their Focus Gear employment experience. to benefit war veterans with Remember: in everything you do, with pride. Everyone enjoyed “The owners had been moving brain injuries, and breast cancer Focus on Living. the chance to pick through the in this direction their entire survivors. The long term focus of You may wonder how Focus supply to find the perfect item. We careers,” Slater says, “Together the company is to become involved on Living, a corporate adult foster ordered one box after another to they’ve given 32 years in raising funds for an care facility, got into making keep in good supply.” The shirts to human services and endless array of causes, clothing. It started as an employee themselves come in a variety of another 16 to military all the while giving the incentive program. Owners Rich colors, sizes and styles but all have service. They view the opportunity of competitive Heine and Tom Kriech of the distinct “Focus Gear” opportunity to outfit employment to people with Duluth, Minnesota, gave logo on the front and title worthy causes as an brain injuries in Duluth. staff, residents and day on the arm or back. exciting new way to advocate for The Brain Injury Association of program participants a What started as an society’s vulnerable adults. It’s an Minnesota directly benefits from challenge. They were to in-house canteen-like innovative model. It flips the sad the sale of the shirts by receiving come up with a way to incentive was turning and stuffy perception of group- 25 percent of the profits of Focus recognize employees and into an opportunity; and home living upside down.” Gear shirts! If you are interested residents, reward hard brainstorming ensued. In the end, Focus Gear benefits in buying Focus Gear, you can work and sometimes just The decision was made everyone involved. People contact Brady at Focus on Living say, “Here’s for a good day.” The to make Focus on Living T-shirts with a brain injury can become at 218-722-1170 or on-line at winning idea resulted in a clothing available for other worthy causes competitively employed, there is www.focusgearllc.com. They can label, coined “Focus Gear.” and give back part of the proceeds new community awareness of brain also be purchased at the Twice the Brady Slater, Case Director at to those causes. The added bonus is injury, and customers who buy the Gift store throughout the holiday Focus on Living, and Co-Creator that people with brain injuries and shirts can feel good knowing their season. of Focus Gear, explained that mental illness can work for Focus purchase is helping a worthy cause. Supporters

Acknowledgement of Donations: September 1 - November 31, 2008 DONORS NEW OR RENEWING NEW OR RENEWING HONORING Ms. Tina Dulany In Honor of Gwyn Leder Ms. Barbara Elwell MEMBERS MEMBERS Ms. Geraldine Leder Ms. Cathy Andreasen Ms. Glenda Swanson Ms. Marcia Geyer Mr. Dennis Byrnes Mr. Arnold Swanson In Honor of Terri Traudt Mr. Dylan Krenske Mr. Robert Davis Ms. Joan Wede Mr. & Mrs. John Wagner Mr. Robert Prosser Mr. Eric Davis Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd Whittaker Mrs. Ardis Sandstrom MEMORIALS Ms. Jermaine Foslien Ms. Julie Zallek Mr. Patrick Sroka In Memorial for Craig Hanson Mr. John George Ms. Joette Zola Mr. Lawrence Stirtz Morris Hanson Ms. Sharyl Helgeson Mr. Ken Waschke In Memorial for Leroy Mather Ms. Kathleen Johnson Mr. Mohsin Zafar Ms. Kristin Ballard Mr. Quentin Johnson WEB SITE Mr. David Brown Dr. & Mrs. Robert Karol SPONSOR Ms. Mary Beth Complin Meshbesher & Spence ORGANIZATIONAL Mr. Jay Keller Ms. Cynthia Geariety Ms. Patricia Kinsky Ms. Clare Kreuser DONORS Ms. Marla Kontak 4Charity Foundation, Inc LIFETIME MEMBERS Ms. Francis Kreuser Mr. Roger Kronholm Minnesota Council of Non-profits Ms. Mary Adams Ms. Polly Kreuser-Baden Ms. Susan Kuchera US Bank Ms. Marcine Forrette Ms. Yvonne Mather Ms. Willa Lavamaki Mr. Paul Godlewski Mr. Steven Nilsson Ms. Emily Malone Ms. Ellie Hands Ms. Carol Pumper FOUNDATIONS Mr. & Mrs. William Matson Ms. Elizabeth A. Jensen Ms. Lois Rademacher Carolyn Foundation Ms. Linda Miller-Nelson Mr. David King Ms. Lisa Radziej Clouser Family Foundation Ms. Eunice Morelli Ms. Trisha Landers Ms. Patricia Tritz Medtronic Foundation Mr. Marco Morelli Mr. Martin J. McMorrow Mr. Stanley Vonbokern Ms. Lynda Petersen Mr. William T. O’Dowd, Ph.D. Mr. Erwin Zimmer Mr. Marshall Petersen Ms. Ardis & Terry Sandstrom In Memorial for Larry Petersen CORPORATE Ms. Betty Petersen Ms. Catherine I. Shannon Ms. Lauretta Jones MEMBERS Dr. Kenley Schmidt Mr. & Mrs. Michael Strand We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of Habilitative Services, Inc. Mr. Kenneth Steffke our donor records. If you feel that we have made Mrs. Terri Traudt an error please contact us so we may update Mary T. Inc. Ms. Colleen Stone Mr. Tim Traudt our records and prevent future mistakes. HEADLINES WINTER 2008-2009 page 12 Gifts, Giving and Gratitude, continued from page 12 which helped tell our story; of color. This year alone, appointments and transition they asked Americans if they were • We received a proclamation 200 people in underserved children back to public school. going to continue to help others from Governor Pawlenty communities were connected They also lend a caring ear when this year and whether or not they recognizing March as Brain to the free services offered times are tough for families whose would give the same as last year. Injury Awareness Month; at the Association through lives have been turned upside Those interviewed stated that, • In June, the tireless efforts our multicultural outreach down by an unexpected brain although they would continue to of our public policy team services. injury and crisis seems to loom contribute, they would be more and a number of well- • Strengthens our a around every corner. selective regarding who receives trained passionate advocates, commitment to our mission, Every dollar you give helps. To their donations. Many stated that succeeded in securing the which enhances quality of life make a credit card contribution they would give to organizations critical continuation of the and brings the promise of a to the Brain Injury Association of that they determined were in real Traumatic Brain Injury Fund; better tomorrow for all people Minnesota, visit our Web site at need of their contribution. • The Association experienced affected by brain injury. www.braininjurymn.org. To mail a As the Brain Injury Association its most successful Walk for • Helps sustain the Association contribution, please send to of Minnesota approaches the Thought to date. throughout the coming year, 34 13th Avenue NE, Suite B001, end of another year, and looks so that when you or anyone in Minneapolis, MN 55413. Our ahead to next year’s challenges It takes a powerful support the community needs our help, staff is available to answer your and goals, we find we need your team to help individuals with we are there. questions by phone Monday help more than ever. There is brain injury transition back to • Brings positive change. through Friday from 8 a.m. to much work to be done to ensure family life, work, school and Giving a gift to the Brain 4:30 p.m. at 800-669-6442 or that all Minnesotans living with the community. For this reason, Injury Association of 612-378-2742. brain injury are able to access the please help us by making a Minnesota is about making No one should have to supports and services they need contribution. By giving, your gift: changes happen. experience the aftermath of a from the Association. • Goes far. At the Association, brain injury alone. Your support In 2008, we made tremendous 91 cents of every dollar In these tough economic times, will ensure that no one does. strides in raising awareness you give goes directly people with brain injury need about traumatic brain injury and to help individuals with the Association more than ever. the work of the Association. brain injury. This includes Staff at the Association work Successful highlights include: targeted education efforts and year round to help individuals • We kicked off the year with outreach to disadvantaged and families cut through March Brain Injury Awareness communities such as homeless administrative and government month, and in doing so, seized individuals, victims of red tape, secure social security an opportunity to outreach to domestic violence, veterans, and county waivers to pay for a number of media outlets, seniors and communities basic needs, secure rides to doctor