Thursday, April 28, 2016

Trying a lot of things



If you all are not aware from my previous blogs, then I will tell you. My right arm has zero function and limited movement. The progress just has not been there like it has been in my leg. Now I did experience some progress in the beginning, but it was so minimal that I just gave up.
       I tried everything including, Occupational Therapy, E-stem and the Bioness. Occupational therapy is a therapy that works on your arms with much repetition. E-stem is a therapeutic tool that helps you accomplish various tasks. The Bioness helps you regain function through a brace- type device.
    My boyfriend at the time surprised me one day. He bought me electrodes, or a tens unit, to try and re-awaken my arm. I knew it was not going to work, but I thought it was sweet that he made the effort so I tried it. Well it did not work. So right now I’m stuck with what I have.

Thursday, April 21, 2016

Side by Side



About two years ago, I was involved in a program that was called Side by Side Brain Injury Clubhouse. It is a program where members meet in a small house up to six hours a day. I went there 3 days a week for about 8-10 months and Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation paid for it.
     I heard about it from my vocational counselor at Shepherd Center. At the time, I was in desperate need of a job and would try just about anything to get one. I was told it was the next best step, so I gave it a try.
       The group met to focus on the strengths, abilities and volunteer efforts. Members needed this help in order to pursue a meaningful job. The Clubhouse was a very relaxed environment which consisted of people who had sustained a traumatic injury.
      They have the members split up depending on their needs. They have a business unit, a kitchen unit and a maintenance unit. I was in the business unit and I was responsible for the notes, collecting money, blogs and anything else that came up.
      It helped me to some extent It helped me most with scheduling because we had to be there at a specific time and also had an hour lunch break. It was a good experience and also helped me prepare for work.          
To get some resources to better assist you in getting help started. Check this out!
http://www.sidebysideclubhouse.org/about/resources/            

Thursday, April 7, 2016

Mobility Expo




      About two years ago, I attended the Mobility Expo in Norcross, Ga . It is held at the North Atlantic Trade Station April 15 and 16 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It is about bringing products and services to those with disabilities. It was a very cool experience with some awesome technology. There were even cars there that were adapted to fit your needs.
      This year I will again be present at the Expo, only this time I will have a slightly different role. Instead of cruising down the path taking a look at the vendors, I will have my own booth set up. The booth will be labeled as Parent to Parent of Georgia. We are a group that helps give resources and make connections for people who have a child with a disability. I am responsible for handing out flyers and brochures about our agency. Also I will be able to tell visitors a brief bit about our roles and services. I will be able to tell them what I do for the company as well!
       So bring your family and friends or whoever you wish. Just stop on by to say hey!