B.R.A.I.N. has continued to be a light for survivors of brain injury showing them that there is life and recovery after a catastrophic event. At the weekly meetings that include family members, caregivers and volunteers, there is socialization and friendships made. There is information exchanged and music and/or games enjoyed.
In addition to the weekly meetings there is therapies of all kinds going on so that each survivor is helped with his/her particular need. Scholarships are made available for those who need them.
Pure and simple, B.R.A.I.N. is amazing!! From the second you walk in the door you feel comfortable knowing that B.R.A.I.N. brings care and treatment for those with brain injuries and strokes. The survivors who come for speech and cognitive therapy, massage, support groups, and strength training are all treated with the respect they deserve. B.R.A.I.N. also offers acupuncture, acupressure massage, literacy and conversation classes, as well as a choir. The therapists are the best in their fields, so knowledgeable and welcoming. It's a pleasure to be associated with this nonprofit.
I am in charge of the volunteer/survivor friendship program we call Brain Cells. We train a volunteer to help a survivor with their particular challenges. It simply involves befriending them and encouraging them on their journey of recovery. I have seen remarkable progress in those friendship pairs over the years the program has operated. The volunteer sends me a monthly report on their activities, the survivors triumphs and challenges and the team at B.R.A.I.N. steps in to celebrate or help. This program is free.
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I was asked to serve in the capacity of a board member back when the founder was just setting up this nonprofit to help brain injury adults. I explained that I didn't know anything about brain injury but she was insistent that I could help. I told her I'd donate one year. Here I am 9 years later because the work that B.R.A.I.N. does and the survivors of brain injury are so inspirational.
I have seen the kindness of therapists who are tops in their field donate their time to help people speak again, walk again, and think clearly again. Most don't recover to the point where they are the person they were before their injury or stroke, but they are able to rejoin society in whatever capacity they have--and to do it gratefully.
A large part of the program is the F.B.I. (Friends of Brain Injury) group that meets on Tuesday nights where newly recovering survivors as well as long time ones can meet and support one another. Angela Mandas, awarded the number one speech therapist in California title last year, donates her time to run the 2 hour program which includes information, cognitive training, sharing and a lot of laughter. The group of almost 100 that show up weekly are disappointed when a vacation period arrives and they can't come to see their friends and be encouraged.
It is a remarkable organization. Survivors are treated like "normal" people who have had a set back but are not helpless individuals. They are encouraged to help others and donate if they can to those in need.
This organization holds a special place in the heart of my family.
My mom survived a brain aneurysm and this organization has helped her regain her speaking abilities and relearn how to speak. They are one of the most supportive and nurturing organizations for victims of brain trauma. They create a safe haven where members can feel safe, assimilate to others, and feel “normal”. The board members are so kind and professional. We are so thankful to be part of B.R.A.I.N.
My daughter was hit by a car, and she suffered a traumatic brain injury. She and I spent several years rehabilitating and we explored every potential source that we thought would help bring her back to where she used to be prior to the incident. I was looking for a support group when I came across B.R.A.I.N. I contacted the Founder, Sue, and I told her our story. She was familiar with my daughter's journey, and after our initial phone call I felt like this was the next step in my daughters recovery. We were greeted by an amazing group of staff and other individuals (and their families) that were experiencing the same things that we were going through. Through B.R.A.I.N we met an extremely valuable source, my daughter's life coach, Mr. Ken Henry. Our lives have changed in so may ways since becoming involved with B.R.A.I.N. There is no pill that can cure this type of injury, but our continuing relationship with B.R.A.I.N. has proven to be an extremely important part of my daughter being able to gain her independence. That is something that I never thought would be possible after this type of an injury. B.R.A.I.N staff and members helped us believe in the power of group support, and I will forever be grateful for Sue and her staff.
The B.R.A.I.N. Organization has been a real blessing to our family. Our son, Michael, has Cerebral Palsy and struggles with poor muscle tone and weight gain. We came to B.R.A.I.N. about a year ago, in search of a program that would provide a fun and safe place to help us address Michael’s needs. Sue connected us with Kevin, an awesome physical therapist! We developed an exercise regimen that Michael really enjoys and looks forward to each week. We have seen real improvements in Michael’s abilities and are very pleased to be part of the B.R.A.I.N. Family!
We have been a part of the BRAIN family for years. They have helped my son when the rest of the medical fields denied us services. We have been part of the FBI (Friends of Brain Injured) group and activities. My son has been attending private and group speech sessions; previously had PT and workouts there and a couple of massages. This Network has helped so many families through some very difficult times. There passion, support, dedication and expertise in helping and supporting persons with TBIs (traumatic brain injury) has been a gift.
B.R.A.I.N. has been an invaluable resource to our family. My sister suffered from a TBI in 2017 and B.R.A.I.N. has helped her regain personal development skills as well as improving her literacy skills.
Traumatic brain injuries can be isolating. F.B.I. nights are a great way for her to connect with others in a fun environment.
Thank you B.R.A.I.N. for all you do!
After critical care treatment a traumatic brain injured survivor often has to find their own way in rehabilitation. The B.R.A.I.N organization is a place for Orange County TBI/Stroke survivors to continue their recovery through caring, skilled, affordable and compassionate therapy treating the mind, body and soul.
B.R.A.I.N. is a wonderful resource to the community! This organization focuses on rehabilitating and connecting brain injury survivors and their families. I have loved seeing the positive changes in every client that walks through the doors. From speaking or walking again, to making new friends and adjusting to their life post injury, B.R.A.I.N assists and supports clients in every step of their journey.
Brain is a loving home. These days, especially these days, homes are chaotic. To be more blunt, some people don’t have homes as evidenced by the homeless epidemic and even those who have homes a lot of the time are filled with addiction and emotional turmoil. To be completely honest, BRAIN is filled with people who have emotional turmoil, but you know what? They use their emotional turmoil to love others and take care of themselves. BRAIN is a place where everyone is loved and accepted, a come as you are place, though they don’t stay that way. They change into people who still have flaws, but are willing to work on them through therapy and relationship. A lot of survivors are lonely and need connection. Their bodies are broken, but their hearts are just as broken. Sometimes their families and friends abandon them and they need a safe place to heal. BRAIN is that place, a home. People complain about the government a lot and it’s intrusion into our lives like with covid, but BRAIN is funded through donors like me and you. They are totally independent and have the freedom to love people with a radical love that government run organizations can’t do. I’m not sure I can say this, but BRAIN is faith-based place with many people who have a strong faith in a higher power. You don’t have to believe in a higher power to come to BRAIN, but everyone who has come, regardless of belief or political system, regardless of whether there even is a higher power, has seen the effects of what people of faith can bring on society. Ultimately, and this is debatable, everyone who has come to BRAIN has the single goal in mind of creating a special place to come to, a home.
Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network was recommended to me by a Speech Pathologist at the Long Beach Veterans Administration Hospital. I was getting therapy at the VA for a Traumatic Brain Injury. The therapy was awesome but there was a missing aspect. I learned many skills and work a rounds for my TBI, but I was suffering socially. I found my self isolating, avoiding social contact and having difficulty with people.
Going to Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network gave me the chance to hear and socialize with like minded survivors of TBI's, Strokes and other brain related issues. I felt like I belonged. I soon opened up and lost most of my fear of leaving the house and meeting people.
In addition an experienced and qualified staff of program mangers and volunteers provide support.
The meeting are attended by 80 to 100 survivors and volunteers. We all respect and listen to each other. Meetings include a variety of speakers, presentations and cognitive skills for us all to enjoy.
I know of no other group like the Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network and highly recommend it to brain injury survivors.
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B.R.A.I.N. provides me the home and shelter I need as I recover from a traumatic brain injury. Therapy is good but B.R.A.I.N. goes beyond therapy. B.R.A.I.N. connects me with others that understand what I am going through because they are going through it. B.R.A.I.N. provides resources at reduced cost to help in recovery, live yoga, massage, exercise, a book club, access to speech pathologists.. then there are the many social activities. For me B.R.A.I.N. got me out of the house and back into life.
This non-profit serves the most underserved population within our society!!! Most Brain injured individuals are left without ongoing after treatment after a brain injury. The services provided by BRAIN assists the patient, family and friends in a team effort towards recovery. Therapy, recreation, excersize, socialization, nutrition and speech therapy are a few programs provided. I am proud to be on the BOD and witness the amazing staff work faithfully with our clients.
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I have been associated with B.R.A.I.N as a board member and now chairman. I learned of the non-profit from it's founder Sue Rueb. I immediately began referring friends, co-workers and relatives who experience strokes and head trauma. My neighbor (female) had a stroke at 43 years old, B.R.A.I.N stepped by counseling her family, meeting with Doctors and providing encouragement as well as resources and expert advice from renowned doctors. In another instance a co-workers son was beaten in a bar fight and had head trauma as well of depression and limited mobility. Our staff provide speech therapy, financing and contractors to make alterations to their home for assessability and counseling to the family. I am proud to be part of an organization that helps those in need and a lost population of our society. Many times the socialization and interactions provides hope and results.
I have been a volunteer at B.R.A.I.N. for more than five years. During this time I have seen many survivors of brain injuries come through the doors. They come in looking for help. Many times they are hopeless. Many times they are discouraged by the lack of resources available in the traditional medical community. Survivors and their families and/or caregivers are meet with hope, love and acceptance. Survivors are paired with a variety of resources, at an affordable cost, to help them recover and live the best life possible with their injury. I have seen miracles occur as survivors exceed even their own expectations! Thank you B.R. A.I. N.
From the beginning, B.R.A.I.N. has had a focus to help the whole person and family of those who are brain injured. So many medical and therapy services are offered. It has been a blessing and joy to see people's lives transformed as they become stronger. The support continues as family members are aided too. As a donor, we know we are helping make a huge difference for these precious people.
Gene and Michele Boyle
I am a volunteer for Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network. It is truly a remarkable place. I have seen the changes in people that have suffered a stroke or brain injury. It feels like family when you come to their meetings on Tuesday night (FBI). For many people its there only time they get out of their home all week. I am thankful I am a part of BRAIN and would encourage anyone that is looking for a place to feel more connected during your recovery this would be a great option.
Finally a total one stop foundation where patients and family members can get support, direction and resources for the help their loved ones need, where loving friendships develop and flourish! I highly recommend and support it for the positive results it gives!!
People enter the building broken and without hope. They leave with joy in their hearts, smiles on their faces, resources to help them move forward.
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Each week at Friends of Brain Injury we celebrate success not failure. We have a large group of people some with brain injuries and some without. We gather together to just enjoy being together. As a speech pathologist, I am blessed to be able to run this group and be a part of the change that takes place in each person who walks through our doors. People are now leaving their homes and going out with friends. Life is so good.
My son sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2011 from a car accident. Volunteers visited him & me while he was in the acute stages of his injury. They provided support, information, comfort, & most of all, HOPE! They continue to provide these things to this very day. From sending people to visit him, to sending volunteers to do speech therapy, to assigning a mentor to him who checks on him & does activities with him & takes him to their meetings, B.R.A.I.N. has made this tragedy that much more bearable. I can't say enough positive things about this group.
I am blessed to have a relationship with someone who has a traumatic brain injury from birth. She is an epic individual and our friendship is so genuine & unique. I am watching this organization change the lives of the survivors through the amazing staff & volunteers committed to improving the quality of life for so many families & survivors. There is so much goodness happening here everyday!
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I am writing this on behalf of my mom who passed away 5-18-11. My mom and dad were part of the first group that BRAIN served. My mom had several hemorragic strokes. BRAIN and FBI were what kept my parents going. This is an amazing organization run by people that loved and supported my family during the last years of my moms life. Thank you. Susan Laffiche Long Beach California
B.R.A.I.N. is a GREAT place not only because of the programs they have that meet the needs of those attending, but simply because of the exceptional and extraordinary people that work there. It does not matter where you go they are second to none. Why? because they have the heart of God where they care deeply and they show it. My son who suffered a massive stroke 9 years ago attends B.R.A.I.N. and although he cannot speak to fully express in words his deep appreciation for especially Sue and Angela, you see it in his expression when you ask him. He is by nature very reserve but he loves them and he shows it. I pray that God will continue to bless Sue, Angela and everyone that is an integral part of this organization, and that He will continue to do great things through them that many will come to see the glory of God in their lives through the people He has placed in the path of the clients, volunteers, and all that walk through the doors of B.R.A.I.N. May God bless and keep you always. Don't forget to ask them about the vision of B.R.A.I.N.
Several years ago my son Alex suffered a stroke. He was unable to speak more than four words or when asked to pick out an item from a picture recognize that item. A clinician (Cathy) at Cal State Long Beach University recommended that I take Alex to B.R.A.I.N. (FBI) I was really impressed upon arriving at FBI then located in Long Beach ,Ca now in Cypress, Ca. Everyone was instrumental in welcoming us and making Alex belong, he was amongst persons he could relate with. They didn't focus on his weaknesses but rather on his strengths. B.R.A.I.N. along with Speech Therapy has helped my son Alex regain about 85 % of his verbal communication skills. Alex still cannot read but with a new class that FBI has just started I am confident that too will come back to him. Thanks to all the volunteers, guest speakers and the FBI staff my son is well on his way to recovery.
What an amazing group of people, that I have been blessed to know and get an opportunity to work with. I'm a speech pathologist, but my connection to this special group was through volunteering. This group is continually growing and there is a reason...they are doing great things for all involved. If you get an opportunity, GET INVOLVED b/c you won't regret it!
I was invited by a friend to help volunteer at B.R.A.I.N. not knowing much about the organization. From the second I walked through the doors I knew this was the place I wanted to invest my time to help others. My Grandmother suffered a stroke about 4 years ago, and again another one just a week ago. The time I spend at B.R.A.I.N. volunteering has also helped me with understanding my Grandmother's brain injury and being able to better meet her needs. This organization does an amazing job at educating as well as providing resources for those who are looking for answers or who have suffered a brain injury. Each week, seeing the survivors in the weekly F.B.I. meetings, and the hope and drive to not be limited by their brain injury, is one of the most rewarding and humbling parts of my week. The empowerment this organization gives to those who have suffered a brain injury, or have loved ones who did is truly something special that can't be experienced by reading a review. So come check them out. You will not regret your decision to volunteer, donate, or come for information and support if you have suffered a brain injury. I love this place!
If you have had a brain injury, are a family member, or interested in volunteering, I encourage you to check out B.R.A.I.N. It is an amazing organization. Everyone is very welcoming. I leave every weekly get together feeling so uplifted.
I am a friend of a brain & spinal cord injured survivor, and together we have witnessed the unique commonality and fellowship, support, encouragement, understanding, acceptance, education and FUN that a B.R.A.I.N. member can experience at the meetings, special events, and field trips. The foundation of BRAIN's success is its cofounder, Sue Rueb, along with Angela Mandas (Speech Language Pathologist) and the rest of the BRAIN staff and Board of Directors. Their enthusiasm, devotion and commitment to helping the brain injured and their families are what keeps its membership and overall participation flourishing and increasing. The ammenities offered are B.R.A.I.N. Cells Program (volunteer partnering with a survivor), massage therapy, "Yoga for the Brain", "At Ease" military support group, special events, guidance and links to services, and MORE. The truth is, what undergirds this amazing organization is a sincere LOVE & CONCERN for the brain injured survivor, and makes B.R.A.I.N. a MUST for the brain injured, their friends and loved ones!!
Our first born son was diagnosed with severe Cerebral Palsy. When he was little, there was help/direction. Now that he is over 44 years old, there is nothing! Then, we found B.R.A.I.N. who cares about each individual. They desire to see each person have more influence in their communities. The staff is never too busy to listen no matter how long it takes to complete a sentence. There is total love and acceptance. The cheering comes when a goal is met, applied....or just tried! This should be the Gold Standard in dealing with brain injured people. No one is thrown away. Do yourself a favor. Attend a gathering, a fund raiser or just sit down and chat with the people at B.R.A.I.N. You will not be disappointed!
I’m here today to give testimony to the significant the Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network (BRAIN) has provided my family and me as I continue along my journey to recovery.
I was a happy individual with a lovely family and a great career with the Boeing Corporation. And, in a split second, my life was changed forever. I was driving to coach my daughter’s high school powder puff football game, when my car was hit by an intoxicated driver going over 65 MPH.
The medical crew at the accident didn’t anticipate I’d make it to the hospital. But thanks to lots of prayers, I arrived at the hospital alive. I laid in bed unconscious for two months until I was able to open my eyes, only to discover I was given a new title – Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) survivor. I had to learn to talk, move and walk again. Of many things I learned about my new life during that time, I realized I would never be able to return to my Boeing employment of nearly 30 years.
Simple solutions to everyday situations are no longer taken for granted. Unlike a common cold, where one can take cold medicine on Friday night, rest & go bed, and wake up Monday morning feeling great again! Unfortunately, there is not TBI syrup to take. And even with lots of rest, I’m still waiting to wake up one morning and feel like I once was. I now must deal with body balance & mental confusion to say the least. The numbness I feel about two inches along the left side of my body from my shoulder to my foot contributes to my imbalance issue. So when asked how imbalanced I now must feel & deal with, I reply with the following example. Stand up, begin spinning around five times very fast to your right, stop & spin around very fast five times around to your left, stop & take three steps forward, stop & sit down in a chair, now rise out of the chair, and try standing still. I now ask how you feel? Hopefully, this example helps explain a little bit about my imbalance issue.
Confusion is something I’m learning to cope with. I don’t talk on the phone because by not seeing someone, I find I’m at a loss for words and my thoughts are mixed up. I was once a person who was able to do multiple things. For example, my job encompassed I had to work on my computer & answer phone calls while directly training & reviewing the work of my staff with weekly assignments and new projects, and maintain a calm, pleasant disposition. Or once being able go to the gym and easily perform workouts which included running & swimming several miles. Now I walk alone because walking with someone else confuses my walking stride with their walking style & potential conversation. Remember this now becomes a multi-task activity I still am learning how to do. And swimming was something I could easily achieve by doing one hundred lengths of the pool. Now I can barely swim one half of a pool’s length. And I now can achieve these modified levels of activities with my continuous practice over the last two years. I am able to successfully pull the wool over most people’s eyes of the many challenges I’m now having to deal with.
Along with my family and friends, the Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network (BRAIN), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with brain injuries, and their weekly support meetings known as the Friends of Brain Injury (FBI), provide benefits to the community of brain injury survivors. I can vividly remember the very first time going to a FBI Meeting. I told my wife – “I don’t belong here!” She smiled at me as we parked our car, and said “OK, but since we’re here, let’s go in and see what we encounter. Just try to remain positive and see this as our new adventure.” So as I opened the door to the meeting, I was amazed at what we discovered! Everyone was happy to see us and welcome us to our first FBI Meeting. I immediately felt at ease and quite welcomed as everyone greeted us. I was once a very confident individual that was robbed of this quality from my accident. But I felt some of this characteristic return back to me as people approached and spoke with me. My wife was so happy to see me involve myself with various answers to questions being asked at the meeting by others in attendance. And she was shocked to see me rise out of my seat and walk to the front of the meeting to participate in a game being played by all at the meeting. When the meeting concluded, many people approached me and said that they looked forward to seeing me at the next meeting. So as my wife and I got into our car, I told her that maybe next week we’d try another meeting. So after a little over a year, I haven’t missed a FBI Meeting!
Once a self-reliant and very confident individual that didn’t need or rely on anyone’s acceptance, now I’m a very different person. A simple pat on the back or words of encouragement is now welcomed and much needed. This is something the Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network does so naturally.
It’s very difficult to put into words the wonderful feeling I get when I participate in a BRAIN/FBI meeting or event. The various activities and classes offered at the FBI facility enable us to try many things we once were very good at or encounter new things we can feel good at participating in doing. For example, we got to see one of our favorite baseball teams lose their game. But the most important thing about this event was not the outcome of the game, but being able to share and enjoy my family & friends by participating in this event. We were able to make a new experience we can now hold very close to our hearts!
I am very honored and quite fortunate to be able to write this passage of appreciation. And, most importantly, to say “Thank You from the top of my heart to the bottom of my soul to the Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network for what EWBA supports. I proudly can say that EWBA stands for “Everything Will Be Alright”.
We were introduced to B.R.A.I.N. through the founder and president, Sue Rueb. Actually Sue found us through our documentary, A Revolving Door. Our film short listed for an Academy Award in 2007. At the age of 16 our son Tommy sustained an undiagnosed Traumatic Brain Injury, it happened in a surfing accident. Today Tommy is 41 and thriving! At the time of our film, Tommy had not been diagnosed, "undiagnosed". We didn't know if he was "just a drug addict", mentally ill, brain injured, or all three. Sue Rueb contacted us after viewing our film and said, "I have a daughter just like your son Tommy!" Shortly thereafter, (B.R.A.I.N.) Brain Rehabilitation And Injury Network, was established. This nonprofit organization is young, but is growing in leaps and bounds. My husband Tom and I have a business in Ojai Ca. called The Lennon Closet. We have B.R.A.I.N. brochures available for all of our customers, and use our business as a launching platform to bring awareness to Brain Rehabilitation And Injury Network. In 2013 our family is producing a fundraising music concert with all proceeds going to this amazing, progressive non profit charity.
I teach a weekly yoga class at B.R.A.I.N. and it is the hightlight of my week. The atmosphere is peaceful and the people are inspiring.
My brother is a stroke survivor and a client of the group. Thanks to the friendly and engaging volunteers, he's able to augment his speech therapy and interact with a wide array of people. Without the group, he would be introverted and definitely would miss the social stimulation.
Before I started as a volunteer for this group, I took the time to observe a Friends of Brain Injured (F.B.I.) meeting and was amazed at the interaction, involvement, and happiness of both the staff, the volunteers, and those that had brain injury. To help people who realy need need help, to improve their life and the lives of those involved with them, is a unique opportunity and that is what B.B.A.I.N. is all about. Helping change lives for the better though physical support, prayer, and interaction.
This is a most impressive nonprofit, focused on the most difficult of issues-- namely traumataic brain injury and recovery. As a Board member i have been so impressed with the vision, the leadership, and the frugal handling of finances. The results are already in-- B.R.A.I.N. is providing significant help to dozens of brain injured folks.
To see what the team at brain does from a support perspective, for people who are suffering from brain disorders, is truly inspirational. Where there is fear, they provide comfort and in many cases hope for those individuals, their families and supporting friends.
This organization is one of a kind. The events and support provided by B.R.A.I.N. has helped countless individuals move forward with their lives in a wonderful way. I am grateful that such an organization exists and I encourage everyone to support B.R.A.I.N.!
This group is incredibly innovative. They serve a need that, frankly the rest of us did not attend to. When I first heard about this concept, it just made sense. Kudos to BRAIN for stepping out of the rehab box and making a huge difference. This is a model that needs to be shared with BRAIN chapters worldwide! Blessings!
What an amazing nonprofit organization such as B.R.A.I.N.! This organization has been founded on unprecidented character of faith and experience. My husband, a Speech Language Pathologist, became an aneyurism victim 22 years ago. He has been able to share his full support with the founder and has helped a fellow victim of B.R.A.I.N. I, his wife, fully support this organization whatever possible way I can.
I came to the opening of B.R.A.I.N not knowing what to expect. To my surprise I left feeling touched. B.R.A.I.N was eye opening for many different reasons. The survivors of brain injuries were positive with joyful hearts and big smiles. It was apparent that B.R.A.I.N was special to these wonderful people and meant alot. I enjoyed hearing all of the great things they did at FBI meetings and how their hearts have been touched. I was inspired by the survivors and the people who were all involved. I feel blessed to know the people involved in B.R.A.I.N and decided I wanted to be a part of this amazing organization forever. It has been so encouraging and a joy to see the great progress survivors have made in their everyday life and their positive smiles! They taught me alot and that attitude is everything! B.R.A.I.N is great place and the people who started it and help are wonderful people!
I found this organization while searching for help for my sister, a working, single mother whose 22-year old son had just been in a horrible car crash and sustained massive brain injury. He was in ICU with grim prognosis, and my sister was desperate, frightened, and had no one in the area to turn to for advice and support. What a blessing B.R.A.I.N. turned out to be! Director Sue Rueb actually came to the hospital and provided great comfort and counsel. She helped advocate for my sister and her son at various junctions in his care, arranged for my sister to talk to others who had been through this kind of nightmare, and in the months ahead dispatched volunteers who traveled some distance to help her son with therapy or just visit him and keep him company. My sister was invited to attend meetings that were both educational and inspiring, and through B.R.A.I.N. has continued access to of a network of caring professionals, people with brain injuries, and family members who truly understand what she and her son are facing. The ongoing challenges in the aftermath of brain injury are relentless, exhausting, and at times absolutely overwhelming. B.R.A.I.N. addresses a huge unmet need and does so with great dedication and heart. I have donated to this organization and I will be forever grateful for the remarkable kindness they offered in a very dark time and the work they do. (And I hope someday they will attain their goal of creating an appropriate and affordable residential facility for brain-injured adults.)
This organization is a wonderful resource for those dealing with brain injury. It is run but caring, knowledgeable, motivated people, and it provides support groups and activities not only for people with brain injuries but for their family, friends and caregivers. What makes this organization stand out is its commitment to community education through yearly conferences and its vision for the future such as the creation of a live-in facility for those in need of support. I would highly recommend joining the BRAIN family.
I have a Traumatic Brain Injury. I suffer from a gunshot wound to the head 10 years ago. B.R.A.I.N has been such a true blessing from GOD. Their vision is to truly help all individuals who suffer from all types of TBI's. This organization is always willing to help and listen to the individuals needs with unwavering love and compassion for anyone not only the brained injured.
I give thanks everyday that my husband Andres found this great organization B.R.A.I.N. SInce his injury he has attended many support groups but none has been so supportive and caring. They make him feel at home and they have brought him hope that he can go on living with his new self. THANK YOU!!! He comes home smiling after a meeting and that's a big deal now. God bless B.R.A.I.N
A great nonprofit is B.R.A.I.N, Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network. My wife and I are both brain injured and have been married for 16 years with our injuries. We are part of this wonderful Organization and their "branch", F.B.I.., Friends of Brain Injury. Our group meets weekly to offer each other support and because of that, we all have the realization that "I" am not the only one. Our group hears from speakers who give us information, advice and a feeling of "caring" about our injuries. We also socialize, share strategies and many times just have "fun" and play different games. Games that have a purpose of helping to improve our "cognitive thinking" abilities. Susan Rueb and her husband Jerry founded this Organization in 2008. Dr. Richard Adams, a rehabilitation physican, told me how amazed he is with the growth and purpose,in such a short time for a nonprofit organization. B.R.A.I.N. and Mrs. Rueb have not only advocated, assisted and spent time with the families of brain injured but have assisted the brain injured in the hospital, giving their concerned families support and advice. B.R.A.I.N. assists and helps hundreds of families and brain injured. All of us, the survivors, to have a Organization like B.R.A.I.N. and F.B.I. is so great. The support, togetherness, advice and just sharing and talking to each other is so vital for our "population". Again you know that you are not ALL ALONE!
This organization is very professional and cares about the injured people they serve like no other organization I have ever known. Sue has an incredible heart, and it shows. Everyone benefits. It is an outstanding organization and I am proud to support it. Dr. Don Baune
BRAIN is a vitally needed brain injury support group that meets weekly in Cypress, CA. We have weekly programs and BRAIN activities that not only brings vital information for every individual but is a great time by everyone. Our BRAIN meetings provide a safe haven whereby we can freely share our thoughts together and received encouragement from like minded individuals. There is no realy support program in Southern CA and BRAIN fills that void. I have been a volunteer for nearly two years. What I have learned and can share wityh others, not to mention the invaluable fun we have, is truly a great gift of knowledge to help who might be affective and not aware of this great support group. The empathetic leadership of BRAIN is absolutely outstanding. B.R.A.I.N is a non-profit group that is truly God driven.
The St Jude Brain injury Network enjoys a collaborative relationship with B.R.A.I.N. thank you for your services to TBI's . Much appreciated and helpful
I'm a caregiver and found out two years ago about BRAIN and F.B.I. meeting on Tuesdays Our meeting are getting bigger . Is really fun to attend . The room is full of volunteers, students, speech therapists, speakers that are interesting and professional, family members and survivors .We have fun activities too like bowling, picnics, concerts field trips I invited everyone to attend once and enjoyed this magnificent organization
We have such a great relationship with BRAIN. Our son passed away in 2010 from a brain injury that he received from an accidental fall and every since that devastating day we have had support from BRAIN. They have attended our fund raising events to assist in bringing awareness and education concerning brain injuries, they have spoken at events for us and provided literature of support and awareness. I cannot say enough about this non-profit organization. We have been involved with several other non-profits but BRAIN is by far the most responsive.
I really appreciate B.R.A.I.N. for what I've received from the company. It's great that everyone who is handicapped is appreciated in life. The meetings are great with the therapists, famous visitors and cooperation with encouragement that has been made for (and to) the members of the company. The names of those I personally appreciate are Angela, who speaks through the weekly meetings and Sue who has begun and continues improving us. With all of this I personally appreciate the Lord God for everything He's given and helped continue with us! (and even yourself, whether you do or don't believe in Him)
This non-profit is designed to help an unfortunately growing segment of our population. I call it unfortuncate because a head injury is extremely devastating but it is fast on its way to becoming recognized as one of the most devastating injuries that affects so many Americans. This is non-profit is set up with the sole purpose of helping head-injured individuals to find their position in life, how to work with others, and to find a place that they can still be easily accepted as loving individuals. As my book comes out I will be donating a bit for every single book that I sell.
As a traumatic brain injury survivor myself, I understand better than most the challenges survivors and family members face. I developed hydrocephalus while playing DT for the 1981 Super Bowl champion SF 49ers, and at the age of 22 I underwent my first emergency VP shunt brain surgery during the season. Four months after our Super Bowl XVI victory, my shunt failed and I survived 2 additional emergency brain surgeries 10 hours apart and was given last rites. I also developed gran mal seizures. By the time I completed my Biology degree in 1990, I had survived 7 emergency brain surgeries and am now on # 9. Needless to say, I have become a staunch advocate for changing the way our medical profession treats TBI survivors and family members. I first met Sue Rueb and learned of B.R.A.I.N. at a TBI conference I spoke at and the rest is history. I thought I was a focused, passionate, persevering, "Never Say Die" individual till I met Sue. She takes it to a whole new level. I am proud to say I am associated with B.R.A.I.N. and The Visger Group - TBI Consulting, is proud to have B.R.A.I.N. as an Associate Advisory panel member. George Visger The Visger Group
BRAIN is: networking, laughter, sharing, listening, engaging, learning, growing, supporting- a place of friendship and welcome for all.
B.R.A.I.N. is an amazing organization and it really helps those who have suffered some kind of Traumatic Brain Injury. It is more than just a support group and the people involved are truly blessed by the work done there.
BRAIN increases awareness of head injury and treats with dignity those with head injury, providing fun and useful activities. I highly recommend getting involved in this organization. I know many who have found BRAIN to be a huge blessing!
Hi my name is grace and I worked with B.R.A.I.N. as a student volunteer. Through this organization I have met the most awe inspiring individuals. Their strength, perseverance, and general appreciation for life is next to none. As a result of volunteering I can genuinely say I became a better person. I have learned to appreciate, and value the everyday activities many of us take for granted. I have also made lifelong friends with many of the survivors. The staff is knowledgable, supportive, and interested in providing the most up to date information and support to its community members. My time with B.R.A.I.N. will always be associated with joy, love, respect, and admiration. I look forward to one day working with them again.
I was, introduced to BRAIN by a current member who attended the rehab class I attend at Cal State Long Beach. He and his wife were excited to share with me what they were offering at BRAIN meetings. I was so excited to learn more I went to the internet to learn more and how I could participate. My 32 year old son took me to the evening meeting. I was thrilled to find a group for brain injury people like myself I quickly made friends and soon had transportantion set up for all the meetings. The drivers are all volunteers. I've made a lot of new friends as well. I had a storke a year after my husband passed away. I was his care giver and I worked full time as well. The stress was unbearable. My storked occured at work. It was a very scary. My sister worked at the same campus I was working at. She was able to find my insurance card and call my children and parents. My church community quickly came to our aid with constant praying and support. It was a humbling experience for me. I was usually the helper and now I needed the help and so did my family. The doctors said I had a 1 percent chance to live and if I did I would probably be a vegatable and never be able to care for myself again. I had to sell my 2 story house and I had to retire from my job which I loved and wanted stay there until I was at least 65 years old.I was only 56 when it happened to me. I had to live with my sisters for the first year I was out of the hospital.I now live alone in a small house behind my son's home where he lives with his wife and two children. Iam truly happy now with my new BRAIN organization to help me cope with my disability. Im so gratweful for all the help I am recieving. I just started taking a Yoga class during the day there. My care giver takes me. I am doing things I aLWAYS WANTED TO DO BUT NEVER HAD TIME. I'M INTERESTED IN learning more about the classes and services they offer. I like to help with fundraising. Now I feel like a new person again.
I am the director and co founder of B.R.A.I.N. Brain Rehabilitation And Injury Network has grown out of our own personal pain from our daughter's misdiagnosis of brain injury. After 31 years, we now know what our daughter has survived and we knew we did not want other families to go without the personal help and hope so B.R.A.I.N. became a reality. We now have our own facility with daily meetings, classes, seminars and brain symposiums....all led by volunteers. I could never do what I do to lead if I didn't have so many wonderful people following. It is an honor to serve side by side some of the greatest and most capable people in the world. B.R.A.I.N. advances research, recovery and residual care for families and individuals who have sustained a brain injury. We dispense HOPE and walk with brain injury survivors and we have become a vital part of the community . We have started a movement, not just another organization.
B.R.A.I.N. offers the very best in post acute care environments anywhere and at a minimal cost for those who access it. There is literally nothing like this organization in America. It stands alone in combining the goals of brain injury research, recovery and residual care.
I am a speech pathologist working with patients in the vicinity of the BRAIN office. I have referred several patients to this outstanding non-profit organization. These former patients have experienced life altering experiences. This support group has allowed the patients to experience life outside of home and restore purpose in daily activites. I continue to refer any patient who may benefit from the activiites of this group (support, yoga for the mind, recreational activities, support for veterans). I am forever grateful to the staff at BRAIN. I no longer have to say goodbye to my patients. Now I can refer my brain injured patients to a high quality and flourishing support group.
It's a whole new world when your spouse has a stroke. As a wife and now caregiver, you learn on the job. Brain's F.B.I. group on Tuesday evenings provides us the support we both need. We learn something every time we attend, but most of all it is the acceptance. The room is full of volunteers, students, speech therapists, family members and survivors. The Brain organization is fun with speakers that are interesting and professional.
As a volunteer for BRAIN for the last year plus, I have learned a ton, have had a chance to help others, and have been profoundly positively impacted. This organization is changing the lives of everyone involved for the better!
Diane is my wife and she suffered a Brain Aneurysm 5 years ago leaving her with no ability to talk for one year. She attended Cal State Long Beach in the speech deptartment until it was elimated because of cuts in funding. We found B.R.A.I.N. and have been using there service since. B.R.A.I.N. is a wonderful nonprofit organization with decicated volunteers. I hope whoever is reading this message can and will help.
Being apart of B.R.A.I.N. has been an eye-opening experience. It has become one of my favorite places and I look forward to volunteering at the weekly meetings. Hearing the survivors talk every week and express how this organization has changed their lives and outlook on life is truly heartwarming. This is an amazing organization and I am proud to be apart of it.
B.R.A.I.N. brings people suffering from traumatic brain injury together and gives them a sense of friendship and community. Every week I witness people growing stronger and happier together at the FBI meetings and I believe it gives hope and a place of security for these individuals. I feel blessed to witness what this organization does for people on a regular basis.
In June of 2012 I suffered a stroke. Brain has given me hope and support during my period of recovery. Meeting with the Brain group (F.B.I.) every Tuesday makes me feel like I'm not an outcast. It is a caring, safe place to express your true feelings and hear about how others deal with similar issues. This is a worthy organization and I believe it is a key component to transition.
I have been volunteering at BRAIN for a month or so now, and I am blown away by how incredibly loving, supportive and helpful this group is. When you go there for the first time, they make you feel like family. What I especially love about this group is that no one wears name tags, so you aren't able to tell who is a victim of a brain injury and who is a family member or volunteer. It s a great time for us to come together and support one another and for the TBI victims to listen and offer advice to one another. This Organization is truly one of a kind!
The survivors and volunteers at B.R.A.I.N. have inspired me to bring skill, hope, and care into my future profession and be the type of doctor that does everything possible to help the survivor and listen to the people who are involved in the every day struggle of healing. F.B.I. is a caring, family-like community that gives tangible answers and hands-on solutions to those who may feel discouraged when dealing with the struggle that is a brain injury. For example, B.R.A.I.N. sends teams of people, who have been through the brain trauma experience and know firsthand the progress that can be made through support and therapy, to visit those in the hospital. They bring hope, awareness, and anecdotal evidence to guide these folks on their path to regaining brain function. One thing I really love about the F.B.I. meetings is the feeling that no one is alone and there is a community of friends that support one another, have fun, and are just there for each other.
This organization is really one-of-a-kind! I feel so blessed to be a part of it, and every day I get to see its extremely positive impact on the brain-injury community and on the wider community. Please donate, support, and promote B.R.A.I.N. so we can spread the movement to give help and hope to the brain-injured!
B.R.A.I.N. is an amazing grass roots organization! Sue Rueb is so passionate about brain injury and the effects on peoples lives and family and it shows with everything B.R.A.I.N. stands for and is involved in. I am honored to know and work with Sue, Jana and Joan and I know this is just the beginning of the huge impact they are going to have on the community.
This organization has helped our daughter who suffers from TBI to be social with others, and the people are so kind to her that she enjoys attending the social meetings. Bob
B.R.A.I.N offers weekly meetings, every Tuesday from 5pm to 7pm and the group is called "Friends of Brain Injury" or F.B.I. for short. F.B.I. is a community service group that is open to any adult who has sustained a brain injury. This includes a head injury from a car accident as a child, a snowboarder, an aneursym, a stroke or a cardiac arrest resulting in anoxia. It is run by a licensed Speech Language Pathologist along with many volunteers from local universities.
The focus of the group is to learn about what happens after your neurological event, resources in the community and ways to incorporate your skills into helping others. It’s motto is to teach you to have fun and not to live life alone. It is not a support group or a therapy session. Come and check it out. You will be glad you did!
I have only known about BRAIN for a short while, but enough to know how important this organization is. It's no surprise that people like me who volunteer a little of their time end up being impacted just as much as the people BRAIN is intended to help: those with brain injuries. This place is full of care, love, hope, and joy which is felt the moment you enter the building. They are doing a great thing!
B.R.A.I.N. is a non-profit that is so needed in the community. They provide excellent support and resourses for brain injured adults.
Brain Rehabilitation And Injury Network (B.R.AI.N.) exists to help those in need of brain resources whether they can afford the help or not.
B.R.A.I.N. provides a weekly meeting for adults who have sustained a brain injury. Adults can attend with family members so that the entire family is assisted in gaining valuable information about brain injury as well as the survivor learns skills in communication, public speaking, game playing, and other social activities. B.R.A.I.N. also has special presentations by physicians, therapists, legal and financial representatives for the inspiration and encouragement to our families who are impacted by brain injury.
B.R.A.I.N. has a social networking program that gives individual help to our friends by pairing up a volunteer with a survivor called Brain Cells. The adults can improve at a faster rate when they are engaged in real life coached by an understanding and sensitive partner.
B.R.A.I.N. provides a monthly newsletter with information and interesting articles to read. This gives a chance to have the TBI survivors write articles and tell their own story of mishap to victory.
B.R.A.I.N. believes that there can be joy even in the midst of such a tragedy as brain injury. A helping hand, a touch, a smile, a listening ear is often what families need.
No one signed up to be in this club of brain injury. No one planned on joining, but we are all in this together because…. brain injury can happen to anyone!
B.R.A.I.N. is a support group for brain injured adults from sports accidents, strokes, aneurisms, etc. We meet as a whole with volunteers and care givers weekly to practice some skills for recovery and encourage one another and have fun. There are about 80 who attend. B.R.A.I.N. also has classes on reading and writing. There is yoga offered weekly for survivors in wheel chairs up to the capabilities of volunteers. We have a monthly newsletter that keeps our 1400 interested folks informed of what we are doing. We visit families in the hospital if they call us as well as in rehab facilities and home to help direct and encourage them. We are associated with Angela Mandas, a gift speech pathologist who also teaches at Chapman University. The organization is led by Sue Rueb, the founder, whose own daughter was born with a brain injury due to a rushed forceps delivery which crushed her frontal lobes.
B.R.A.I.N. has impacted my life in an incredibly profound way. On May 1st, I attended my first F.B.I. meeting. I’m not sure if just saying it was “inspirational” really even begins to describe how amazing this experience was for me. Without much knowledge about the organization, I sat in the back of the room while watching and listening to numerous people stand up and give testimonies about how much of an impact the symposium and B.R.A.I.N. have had on their lives. With everyone pouring out their hearts I was having a very difficult time holding back tears. However, I had a peace in my heart and a smile on my face because I knew that I was meant to be there.
What it really comes down to is every single person involved in F.B.I. is fighting for a life – a different life then they once had, from the brain injured to their family, which is a path no one is prepared to walk down. However, when you look around the room when everyone is interacting together and the smiles are flowing, that is when it is most evident that F.B.I. is a positive healing escape for each individual . . . even for myself.
I was asked to volunteer in whatever capacity necessary but what I didn’t realize is how much everyone involved in F.B.I was helping me. I want to encourage each and everyone to continue to fight for your life and fight to be happy because along the way you never know how much impact you will have on another person’s life.
I’ll be completely honest, I’m hooked! I now look forward to attending each F.B.I. meeting each week . . . and I hope you feel the same way.
See you there!