[Robin abi program]

Not long after my brain injury, about 6-12 months after, I was mostly being asked why I could not do my job like I used to, comments were made such as “why can’t you do ‘it’ ? You look fine!” , “you always did ‘it’ before!”, Or, “you don’t look disabled!”. All the time, unrealistic expectations were being put on me.

I tried going back to work five times over a 2-year period after my brain injury. The more I tried to do what I did before my TBI, the more I realized what problems I had and what was disabling for me.

Almost everyone I knew and talked to told me I just need to keep trying harder. They would tell me “Why don’t you try harder?” Or, they’d tell me I was just being negative when I would ask for help and tried explaining what difficulties I was having.

[Robin abi program]

My purpose for workshop “Finding Your Voice” —

I was struggling with answering many questions for doctor visits, right after my brain injury. Also, I realized I couldn’t remember the many questions I was asked at my appointments. The first three years after my brain injury I was very limited on relaying important information to people. I started getting help with things like this at the Coastline ABI Program, with teacher Michelle. I keep making progress with communication and understanding my struggles after brain injury. This workshop is helping me take the next steps I need so I can get ideas to make socializing a better experience.

[Robin abi program]

I use my calendar to plan, keep on track of tasks, and review tasks completed.