Walk to support services and program for people with brain injuries

Conquer Acquired Brain Injury walk takes place in Lions Pavilion of Zwick’s Park, Belleville, on June 28, 2014 . Photo by Kate Shumakova

By Kate Shumakova.

BELLEVILLE – If there is going to be a chance to help people with brain injuries, then public education is the best opportunity, according to one person leading the charge.

Belleville is raising awareness of brain injuries in Zwick’s Park during the second Conquer Acquired Brain Injuries Walk June 28, said Deborah Paus, the manager of Pathways Foundation.

Pathways Foundation is part of Pathways to Independence Organization, founded in 1990 in order to help people with acquired brain injury within Eastern and South-Eastern Ontario.

“It’s important because it helps to increase awareness and education about brain injuries, how they cause, what people can do. Around 20 per cent of sports injuries are brain injuries, ” she said.

1, 2.5 and 5-kilometre walk is hosted by four Quinte Region non-profit agencies to raise funds and promote awareness of acquired brain injuries: the Pathways Foundation, Regional Community Brain Injury Services of Providence Care, Brain Injury Association Quinte & District and System Navigation

“We have over 100 people and that includes people who live with brain injury, their family and supporters. As well as member of a broader community who are joining us this year,” said.

According to statistics, 50,000 Canadians sustain brain injuries each year, and incidence rates are rising, more that 11,000 Canadians die each year as a result of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Since this is only the second time the walk is being held, Paus said, the group does not have a fundraising target. The agencies are hoping enough money is raised to go toward supporting community program, where people with acquired brain injuries can meet together, support each other, go to attend events, go on trips, and learn new skills, she said.

The walk is not unique event to Belleville. Earlier in June, a similar walk took place in Ottawa and raised over $ 13,000. All proceeds raised will be donated towards building a new home for people with acquired brain injuries in Ottawa.

Belleville Pathways built a similar home two years ago. Paus said they have different needs in Belleville by increasing and improving programs and services.

Robert Wein, the person who started CABI walk three years ago in Ottawa, saw it as a chance to promote awareness of brain injuries and its prevention. He and another four cyclists were injured in the hit-and-run accident on July 19, 2009. Wein used his example to give a hope and help people with similar problems. Paus said Wein attended Belleville CABI last summer and they are expecting him this year again.

Wein is sure that CABI is more than just the walk but a celebration of success.

The walk starts at 9:00 AM June 28 in Zwick’s Park and includes lunch and live entertainment by the band Cold Creek County.