News Articles

The Election is Called – Let’s Keep Brain Injury on the National Agenda

The federal election has been officially called for April 28, 2025. Over the next several weeks, political leaders will be talking about tariffs, global issues, and economic policies—all of which will dominate the headlines. But amidst all the noise, we cannot afford to let the conversation around brain injury fade into the background.

In the last Parliament, all political parties voiced their support for a National Strategy on Brain Injury. Now, with this election upon us, it’s time […]

A Tribute to John Simpson

To truly appreciate the power of advocacy in the brain injury community, we must recognize the profound impact John Simpson had on all of us. He paved the way for significant change, and it was an honour to have known him. Saying goodbye is heartbreaking.

John passed away on February 17, 2025, at the remarkable age of 89. How fitting that it was Family Day, as John was not only a cherished member of his own family but also a guiding figure—a ‘father’—to so many in the brain injury community.

Since 1982, John was a leading force in developing services for individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI) in British Columbia. His compassion […]

Brain Injury Results in the Tragic Death of Young Boxer

The tragic death of Irish boxer John Cooney serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of brain injuries. Cooney, a rising star in the boxing world, passed away following complications from a brain injury sustained during a match. His story is devestating, but not unique—athletes in contact sports continue to face life-altering consequences due to concussions and repearted head trauma.

This loss underscores the urgent need for increased awareness about the risks of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Whether in professional arenas or youth sports, we must prioritize prevention, research, and support for those affected.

Read more about John Cooney’s story here: CNN: John […]

New Research on Post-Traumatic Epilepsy

New Research Sheds Light on Post-Traumatic Epilepsy

An exciting international study has uncovered key insights into post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE), a condition that can arise after a traumatic brain injury. Conducted by researchers from FutureNeuro, the Research Ireland Centre for Translational Brain Science, and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the findings—published in Theranostics—highlight the critical role of the P2X7 receptor in the brain.

Curious to learn more? Read the full article to explore how […]

Acquired Brain Injury Included in the Minister of Health’s Mandate Letter

We are very excited to report that acquired brain injury has been included in the BC Minister of Health’s mandate letter.

The inclusion of acquired brain injury (ABI) in the BC Minister of Health’s mandate letter is a significant milestone for several reasons:

Recognition of ABI as a Public Health Priority

Mandate letters outline the government’s core priorities and signal areas of focus for a minister’s term. By including ABI, the government explicitly acknowledges it as a critical public health issue, elevating its importance alongside other pressing concerns.

Policy and Funding Implications

Mandate letters often set the stage for policy development and […]

Independent Living Canada Festival and Event Accessibility Project

Independent Living Canada Festival and Event Accessibility Project is in the final stretch of gathering feedback and need your help!

The new Festival and Event Accessibility Quick Survey is open, and they are looking for input from Canadians with disabilities and those who support them. Your feedback is critical to shaping accessibility recommendations for festivals and events across Canada.

How You Can Help:

Complete the Quick Survey: It takes just 2–3 minutes and is completely anonymous.
Share it widely on social media, newsletters, listservs, and with your networks (volunteers, employees, members, and committees).
Spread the word […]

Participants Needed for BC Caregiver Study

Santa’s Helpers Ensure Letters Reach the North Pole

Tracey Barry and Tina Marsh are on a mission to ensure the postal disruption does not stop children from sending their letters to Santa.

The heartwarming story, featured in the Sawatsky Sign-Off segment, highlights a group of dedicated volunteers, including Tina, Tracey, and the individuals they support in the March of Dimes Canada Day Program for brain injury survivors. Together, they embody the true spirit of giving during the holiday season.

These selfless individuals dedicate their time to assembling and delivering holiday cheer and creating a magical season for children. Their efforts demonstrate a profound commitment to community and kindness, ensuring no one feels forgotten during this special time […]

Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Brain Injury

The purpose of this charter is to clearly outline, for people with brain injury, their families, caregivers, and care providers their inherent and unique rights to care and services.

This charter can be used by individuals and families to empower themselves when seeking care, by providers as principles for care, by others to educate the public and by policy makers to advocate for needed, respectful and accessible care and services.

This charter was created from information provided by more than 150 people with brain injury and their family members from across Canada. It is intended to be a ‘living document’ that will evolve as needed.

Your feedback is welcome on ways to use this charter, and any additions or modifications that would be […]

Provincial Strategy for Brain Injury Support and Advocacy Needed Now by Janelle Breese Biagioni

This post is in response to the recent announcement regarding involuntary care under the Mental Health Act. I want to acknowledge the thoughtful work that has gone into developing this important strategy, aimed at supporting individuals with complex mental health and addiction challenges, including those with acquired brain injuries. The goal of creating safer, healthier communities is one that we can all support.

However, it is crucial that the enforcement of involuntary care be reserved for only the most extreme circumstances. To truly address the challenges faced by individuals with brain injuries and concurrent disorders, we must find a balance between crisis response and preventative […]

Brain Injury After Overdose is a Hidden Epidemic

Dr. Mauricio Garcia-Barrera (UVic) and Cole Kennedy, PhD Student (UVic) address the ongoing toxic drug crisis as a hidden epidemic: brain injuries resulting from overdoses in this article.

Survivors of these overdoses often suffer from acquired brain injuries (ABI), leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges. Despite the prevalence, these injuries remain under-recognized and inadequately treated, leaving many without the necessary support and rehabilitation.

These researchers emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare strategies that address the complex needs of these individuals, highlighting the importance of increased awareness, early intervention, and integrated care to improve outcomes for survivors. Recognizing and treating brain injuries in […]

Ten Priorities for Research Addressing the Intersections of Brain Injury, Mental Health, and Addictions: A Stakeholder-Driven Priority-Setting Study

Ten Priorities for Research Addressing the Intersections of Brain Injury, Mental Health and Addictions: A Stakeholder‐Driven Priority‐Setting Study

Kennedy, C.J., Woodin, E., Schmidt, J., Biagioni, J.B., & Garcia-Barrera, M.A. (2024). Ten Priorities for Research Addressing the Intersections of Brain Injury, Mental Health, and Addictions: A Stakeholder-Driven Priority-Setting Study. Health Expectations, 27, e14136.

Researchers from the University of Victoria, the University of British Columbia, and community stakeholders recently published a study on a health research priority-setting process. This process aimed to identify, prioritize, and produce a community-driven list of […]

Priorities for Quality of Life after Traumatic Brain Injury

UBC researchers and community stakeholders have published a paper on the Priorities for Quality of Life After Brain Injury and an informative infographic.

It is known that individuals who have sustained a brain injury may experience changes to their quality of life (QOL). To date there has been limited patient-oriented research to understand the priorities for quality of life following a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This research aimed to explore the priorities using a group consensus building method.

Click the link to access the publication:
Priorities for quality of life after traumatic brain injury

Grewal J, Citton K, Sing G, Biagioni JB, Schmidt J (2024) Priorities for quality of life after […]

Help Move Bill C-277 Forward

Bill C-277 is a legislative proposal in Canada aimed at creating a national strategy for brain injury awareness, prevention, and care. The bill seeks to address the significant impact of brain injuries on individuals, families, and communities by promoting comprehensive support and resources. It emphasizes the importance of education, prevention measures, and accessible rehabilitation services to improve the quality of life for brain injury survivors.

By establishing a coordinated approach, Bill C-277 aims to enhance the overall system of care for those affected by brain injuries. This includes raising public awareness about the causes and effects of brain injuries, implementing prevention […]

Neuroplasticity – Springtime for the Brain

It’s that time of year again. Depending on where you live, the grass is already green, flowers in bloom and the winter nights have faded to spring’s ever lengthening sunsets. Maybe spring is not so evident in the climate where you live. Still looking at mounds of dirty brown snow frozen in the parking lot? I’m constantly checking for that first shy crocus to brave late season flurries and bring a splash of colour to the monochrome landscape.

There’s a lot of activity afoot underground at this time of year. Few of us can claim to be experts on the science of migration or photosynthesis yet these phenomena bring about […]

The Impact of Brain Injury on One’s Inner Calendar

Forgetting something here and there usually isn’t a problem. It happens to everyone.

Memory loss is often associated with aging. People say things like, “My memory isn’t what it use to be.” But what if you were in your 20s and as a result of a traumatic brain injury, your memory was significantly impacted.

Sheila Willis of Alberta, shares her story of traumatic brain injury and the challenges of her inner calendar shifting as a result. Although she was in her early 20s when she was injured, she did not receive a diagnosis of post-concussive syndrome until her late 40s.

Sheila Willis’ story highlights the challenges faced by individuals […]

Barb Butler Peer Support Group a Lifeline for Many

There are many reasons why Barb Butler is highly respected in the brain injury community. She is a wonderful person and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. She is also a survivor of traumatic brain injury.

Barb has become a leader in our community, turning her own tragedy into inspiration, courage, and bringing hope to others. For decades, Barb has infused her wisdom and kindness into the Regina Brain Injury Support Group.

Recently, Barb joined forces with the CGB Centre for Traumatic Life Losses, Brain Injury Canada, Cowichan Brain Injury Society and other associations to raise the profile of brain injury in Canada, and to bring support for Bill C-277 forward.

Bill C-277 calls upon the […]

Debra’s Journey: Introduction

Brainstreams is pleased to introduce Debra Erickson, the newest writer in our Between the Lines series committed to sharing the stories of brain injury survivors.

Debra Erickson was the victim of a hit and run in May 2008 and sustained a traumatic brain injury. Prior to her injury, Debra worked primarily in banking and as a legal assistant. Her TBI changed the course of her life and since then she has been involved in with United Way speaking at fundraising events. Her involvement with Humanitarian efforts has taken her to Africa, Indonesia, and Central America. Teaching English as a Second Language has given her the opportunity to […]

A Silent Struggle Video Series: Stories for Caregivers

Brain injuries are not isolated events that have a single impact – their ripples extend beyond the survivor. Some of the under told stories are of the parents, siblings, partners, neighbours, children, and chosen family that rise up to support the survivors through recovery. These caregivers often make big adjustments to their own lives and begin their own journey. Each of these stories are unique beacons of hope and human resilience in the face of overwhelming change.

The BC Brain Injury Association in partnership with Roll.Focus. are honoured to bring you eight unique stories of caregivers, a part of the Stories for Caregivers […]

Canadian Concussion Centre (CCC) – Call for Abstracts

The Canadian Concussion Centre at the Toronto Western Hospital is holding its 11th Annual Concussion Research Symposium entitled “Update on Research and Care of the Concussion Spectrum of Disorders” on April 26, 2024. This symposium will be of major interest to the members of the Canadian Society of Medical Evaluators.

This year’s conference will be hybrid and can be attended online by Zoom or in person at the BMO Education & Conference Centre located in the Krembil Discovery Tower, Toronto Western Hospital. The Symposium usually has about 20 research presentations and attracts about 150 attendees.

Who are the speakers?

The keynote speakers include the […]

Load More Posts

The Election is Called – Let’s Keep Brain Injury on the National Agenda

A Tribute to John Simpson

Brain Injury Results in the Tragic Death of Young Boxer

New Research on Post-Traumatic Epilepsy

Acquired Brain Injury Included in the Minister of Health’s Mandate Letter

Independent Living Canada Festival and Event Accessibility Project

Participants Needed for BC Caregiver Study

Santa’s Helpers Ensure Letters Reach the North Pole

Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Brain Injury

Provincial Strategy for Brain Injury Support and Advocacy Needed Now by Janelle Breese Biagioni

Brain Injury After Overdose is a Hidden Epidemic

Ten Priorities for Research Addressing the Intersections of Brain Injury, Mental Health, and Addictions: A Stakeholder-Driven Priority-Setting Study

Priorities for Quality of Life after Traumatic Brain Injury

Help Move Bill C-277 Forward

Neuroplasticity – Springtime for the Brain

The Impact of Brain Injury on One’s Inner Calendar

Barb Butler Peer Support Group a Lifeline for Many

Between the Lines: Stories of Brain Injury Survivors (Introduction)

Debra’s Journey: Introduction

A Silent Struggle Video Series: Stories for Caregivers

A Silent Struggle Video Series: Stories for Caregivers

Call for Abstracts – 11th Annual Concussion Research Symposium

Canadian Concussion Centre (CCC) – Call for Abstracts

Who are the speakers?