President’s Message
BrainWaves, Winter 2008 | Back to Brain Injury Advocacy
From the President
As we begin this New Year in the midst of tumultuous and uncertain economic times, our commitment to brain injury survivors and their families must not waiver. While all of us have felt to varying degrees the impact from our national and state economies, brain injury survivors have never been more vulnerable. Decreasing state funding threatens to substantially reduce the services and support that we as an organization and a community provide.
There is hope. Together, by becoming a member of the Brain Injury Association of Florida you can in no small way contribute toward increasing awareness which can attract funding from both the private and public sector. Additionally, your continued membership and desire to become a new member can also support our lobbying efforts to, at a minimum, maintain and not lose the current funding. Our membership is one of our most valued assets. If you are reading this, you are in a position to help. I would encourage you to fill out the membership form on the back cover and become a valued member of our team. Together we can make a difference in the lives of all TBI families through Florida. Please partner with us by becoming a member. We will make your voice heard for the benefit of our Florida families. Frank Toral, President
BrainWaves, Summer 2009
From the President
Summer is a time of fun and rejuvenation. While the children are out of school on break we, as parents, caregivers and professionals, have a responsibility to remind them of the importance of wearing safety equipment while they play sports in an effort to prevent sports-related injuries. In this issue you will find information regarding Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury. In short, to resolve any doubt, a Concussion is a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. While concussions can be serious injuries, the vast majority do not result in long-term disability. However, the best cure for this condition is prevention. Wear a helmet, protect your brain, have fun! I am pleased to announce a successful Jamboree where fun was had by all. Additionally, A Black Hat Affair, held in honor of our late President, Dr. Bernard “Bernie” Brucker, was a resounding success. The affair took place on Sunday, April 26th 2009 at the Diplomat Country Club in Hallandale, Florida. The event was presented in partnership with The Brucker Biofeedback Center. A Black Hat Affair was well attended and received. Bernie’s impact on our organization and brain injury survivors is truly missed. I thank all of you for your tireless efforts in helping improve the lives of brain injury survivors and their families. Together, we are making a difference. Frank Toral, President