General Overview

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas

2nd Mondays of the month, 6:30 - 8 PM

Fogelson Building

Haggar Hall

We celebrate our 9th year anniversary in June 2010!!!

Lifelines functions primarily as an educational forum. We also hold group discussions every few months.

Mission Statement Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group strives to address the various issues that arise during the rehabilitation/recovery period through support, information and education. The group serves to educate its members about brain injury, how to improve brain health and the possibility of recovering brain function. Lifelines also provides an open forum where survivors, caregivers and health care professionals may meet and share their experiences. This exchange allows the group to address quality of life issues.

Philosophy Every individual, whether brain injured or not, has suffered some type of affliction. The emphasis for healing and recovery is not to focus on what has happened but instead to focus on what a person can accomplish in the aftermath of tragedy. What is most important is how a person responds to life's challenges. We are survivors. We are not victims.


Purpose "For human beings adaptation to change cannot take place through instincts. It has to take place through something called awareness, motivation, free will and the ability to anticipate the future." Self-Healing: A Personal History, René DuBos from The Healing Brain, A Scientific Reader, Edited by Ornstein/Swencionis

Goals • To assist patients during the rehabilitation/recovery phase of brain injury by providing education about the brain, brain health and the possibility of recovering brain function. • To identify the “silent epidemic” of brain injury and offer a forum for patients and their caregivers to feel supported and find direction during this period of adjustment. • To allow for exchange of thoughts, ideas and experiences.

Calendar - 2010 meeting dates

January 11 - Sara Hunt Harper, Ph.D. - Animal Therapy (meeting will include live animals)

February 8 - Miller Henry Service Group - Applying for Social Security Benefits

March 8 - Jane Shook, M.S., CCC, SLP - Sensory Integration and The Listening Program

April 12 - Kurt Johnson, Founder, American Power Yoga - Introduction to Yoga

May 10 - Karen Sacks, RN - Stroke Awareness Month - New Treatment for Stroke

June 14 - 9th year anniversary - Discussion - Where we've been and where we're going

July 12 - Lynda Gail Jones, member, health care professional - Collage as therapy

August 9 - Jerry Morle, minister - Group discussion on Spiritual Health

September 13 - Dr. Jonathan Walker - Neurofeedback for brain injury

October 11 - Discussion group, TBA

November 8 - Jane Shook, M.S., CCC, SLP - Sensory Integration and The Interactive Metronome

December 13 - Holiday Social at Cafe Express, Mockingbird Station



For the purposes of our group, the most important thing to realize is that the mechanism by which the brain was injured (automobile accident, fall, stroke, ruptured brain aneurysm/brain surgery, congenital) is most significant during the acute phase of care - hospitalization - and post acute - first stages of rehabilitation. When it comes time to address the physical and cognitive deficits in the recovery/rehabilitation/remediation phase, there are enough similarities between the brain insults that allow survivors to meet under an umbrella group.

Our group members have experienced traumatic brain injury, mild traumatic brain injury, acquired brain injury such as ruptured brain aneurysm/brain surgery and stroke and congenital brain injury. Caregivers, other family members (adults only), friends, and health care professionals also attend the meetings.

The challenges faced by survivors depend on what type of brain injury has occurred, so we have a range in physical and cognitive abilities. We usually have an average of 15 people attending presentations.

Past speakers include Dr. Harold Crasilneck presenting the effects of hypnotherapy, Drs. Gray Atkins, Jonathan Walker, Marvin Sams and Sara Hunt Harper discussing neurofeedback (EEG Biofeedback techniques), Tracy Sellers introducing Brain Gym, Betty Erickson (daughter of Milton Erickson) giving a "reality check" with emotionally healthy ways to approach life, Dr. Fran Assaf presenting CranioSacral Therapy, Dr. Steve Lomber detailing how the brain overcomes injury, Roger Stainbrook and Elijah Hawken discussing the benefits of acupuncture, Dr. John-Claude Krusz discussing neuropharmocology, and Dr. Richard Fulbright presenting two lectures - one about neuropsychological testing and the other about psychosocial outcomes following traumatic brain injury.

Note: Additional information is listed under the 2007 posts. For Fun Things to Do, click on June 2007; for Free Things to Do, click on May 2007; for Resource Information, click on May 2007; for information on different therapies/remediating brain injury, click on August 2007.

For more information and/questions about the group, please contact Kimberly at aikmank@gmail.com. Please note that meetings are for adults only - we do not have the facilities to accommodate children.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Haggar Hall
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Haggar Hall is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: November 9, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas.


The November meeting is scheduled for Monday, the 9th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

We will introduce the concept of "Art as therapy" with a hands-on arts and craft session. Sherry Aikman, an artist with 30 years of experience, will teach us the joyous craft of ornament making - just in time for the holidays!

According to the American Art Therapy Association (AATA), Art Therapy is the therapeutic use of art making, by people who experience illness, trauma, or challenges in living, and by people who seek personal development. Through creating art and reflecting on the art products and processes, people can increase awareness of self and others, cope with symptoms, stress, and the traumatic experiences, enhance cognitive abilities, and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of making art. (AATA, 2002)

Art making is a nonverbal tool that can be used to enhance communication about emotional and internal conflicts. It provides the opportunity to listen with one’s eyes. The common tendency of individuals to tune out what they prefer not to hear makes visual images powerful tools…(Landgarten, 1981)

Some benefits include increased stamina and tolerance to various environmental barriers, increased dexterity and hand-eye coordination, improved initiation of sequential events, increased on-task duration and reduction of agitation.

text from "Alternate therapies in the treatment of brain injury and neurobehavioral disorders" by Gregory Jay Murray

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A

Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas

8200 Walnut Hill Lane

Dallas, TX 75231

When turning into the campus from Walnut Hill, the best route of entry may be the driveway prior to the light. The Fogelson Building is to the right when facing the main hospital entrance, and is next to the Margot Perot Center. Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas support, endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: October 12, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas.


The October meeting is scheduled for Monday, the 12th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

We will be having a group discussion about "Turning Weaknesses into Strengths".

All human situations are powerfully influenced by individual perceptions of a situation. The affirmation for this meeting - I accept my strengths and weaknesses - is a way of getting individuals to perceive their new life situation in an affirming and accepting light. We cannot change the fact that we have a brain injury, but we can change how we think about it. People who study the effects of the mind on healing are learning that attitude is very important to healing. Unresolved conflict, internalized anger and fear can combine to suppress the immune system. Stress keeps us sick, while dealing openly with emotions is healthy and wise.

Remember that emotions aren't right or wrong - they just are. The purpose of the group meeting is to find positive ways to look at what may now be perceived as a negative experience.

Questions to consider:

1. How can you put yourself in a learning environment where your abilities are affirmed rather than denied?

2. What activities, groups, or individuals help you affirm your self-worth?

3. Reflect back on the positive changes that have taken place since your brain injury. Think back to how you were one to three weeks post brain injury. Is that different from now? Can you give yourself credit for the progress you have made?

4. Are you being realistic about what you can do and what you can't do? Are you allowing others to do things for you that you might be able to do yourself?

Brain injury survivors can turn weaknesses into strengths by honestly assessing their progress and by challenging themselves to set realistic goals that move them forward toward more independence. Even a small step forward boosts self-worth and gives people the motivation to try a little harder for the next step. Remember that a little frustration is good, because it mobilizes you to take that next step.

Text courtesy of The National Stroke Association's Discovery Circles manual.

You are invited to participate as much or as little as you are comfortable with. If you have a specific example you would like to talk about, we will spend some time during the meeting in a collective brainstorming session and come up with ways to turn specific weaknesses into strengths.

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A

Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas

8200 Walnut Hill Lane

Dallas, TX 75231

When turning into the campus from Walnut Hill, the best route of entry may be the driveway prior to the light. The Fogelson Building is to the right when facing the main hospital entrance, and is next to the Margot Perot Center. Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas support, endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Call for action - patient advocacy issue

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group

Hello.

Kimberly here, facilitator of Lifelines. I am writing today to ask for your support with a patient advocacy issue.

During our September meeting, we discussed the brochures distributed by the Brain Aneurysm Foundation (BAF), a national organization based in Boston. The attendees of that meeting approved the letter pasted at the end of this introduction. Please review the letter, as well as one of the brochures mentioned (http://www.bafound.org/info/pubs/BAF_Brain_Aneurysm_Basics.pdf).

If you are in agreement with the letter, I would appreciate a reply email (aikmank@gmail.com) that relays your support and desire for change. I will collect all the responses, send them to the BAF and ask that change be made. This is equivalent to collecting a petition with signatures.

Please feel free to distribute this request to other interested parties. The goal is to collect hundreds of "signatures."

Let's make the world a better place for brain injury survivors!

___________________________

We are the members of Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group in Dallas, Texas. Because of the number of brain aneurysm survivors in our group, we also function as the Dallas support group for the Brain Aneurysm Foundation (BAF). We write to you today in order to express our concern about the recent marketing material distributed by the BAF with the hope that the rhetoric may be improved.

As brain injury survivors and caregivers, we are aware there are many types of brain injury, which include brain aneurysm rupture, brain surgery, stroke, motor vehicle accidents, bicycle accidents, falls, gunshot wounds, congenital conditions, etc. Surviving these incidents, which in the majority of cases means triumphing over death, and struggling to restore our quality of life in the aftermath, gives us leave to make the following points:

1. We object to the use of fear of death as a motivator to encourage treatment for unruptured aneurysms.

2. We feel that the interview with Amanda Horan Kennedy is misleading as to reality faced by a brain injury survivor and does not accurately reflect the probable result of brain injury that follows brain surgery.

3. We request that the marketing material also include mention of brain injury and resources available to survivors.

4. We request that the materials also provide guidance as to how people can talk to their doctors and insurance companies in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis; many unruptured aneurysms are left undiagnosed and untreated due to a lack of education in the medical community. In addition, there is a lack of awareness regarding the symptoms of ruptured brain aneurysms that should also be addressed.

We suggest the following changes:

a. Instead of "Save your life" - "Improve the quality of your life"
b. Instead of "40% of all people will die" - "Only 60% will live"
c. Clarify that ruptured brain aneurysms account for 3-5% of all new *hemorrhagic* strokes

We welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter with you. Our facilitator, Kimberly Aikman, may be reached via email at aikmank@gmail.com or by calling 214-289-0286.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

General Overview

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas

2nd Mondays of the month, 6:30 - 8 PM

Fogelson Building, Classroom A

Now in our eighth year, Lifelines functions primarily as an educational forum. We also hold group discussions every few months.

Mission Statement Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group strives to address the various issues that arise during the rehabilitation/recovery period through support, information and education. The group provides an open forum where survivors, caregivers and healthcare professionals may meet and share their experiences. The group also serves to educate its members about brain injury and how to improve brain health. This exchange allows the group to address quality of life issues.

Philosophy Every individual, whether brain injured or not, has suffered some type of affliction. The emphasis for healing and recovery is not to focus on what has happened but instead to focus on what a person can accomplish in the aftermath of tragedy. What is most important is how a person responds to life's challenges. We are survivors. We are not victims.


Purpose "For human beings adaptation to change cannot take place through instincts. It has to take place through something called awareness, motivation, free will and the ability to anticipate the future." Self-Healing: A Personal History, René DuBos from The Healing Brain, A Scientific Reader, Edited by Ornstein/Swencionis

Goals • To assist patients during the rehabilitation/recovery phase of brain injury by providing education about the brain, brain health and the possibility of recovering brain function. • To identify the “silent epidemic” of brain injury and offer a forum for patients and their caregivers to feel supported and find direction during this period of adjustment. • To allow for exchange of thoughts, ideas and experiences.

Calendar - 2009 meeting dates

January 12 - Matt Kramer, Voice mapping
February 9 - Dr. Ray Mailloux, caregiver, sharing his experience
March 9 - Let's talk about you - the caregiver
April 13 - Discussion group - Brain injury and personal relationships
May 11 - Mind-Body Skills
June 8 - How to turn down the noise in your life
July 13 - Brain Food
August 10 - Jim Goodman, Karl Heller and Horace Irwin - Survivors speak
September 14 - Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month - An exercise in patient advocacy
October 12 - Discussion group - Turning Weaknesses into Strengths
November 9 - Sherry Aikman, artist - Arts and Crafts, Holiday ornament making
December 14 - Holiday Social at Cafe Express, Mockingbird Station



For the purposes of our group, the most important thing to realize is that the mechanism by which the brain was injured (automobile accident, fall, stroke, ruptured brain aneurysm/brain surgery, congenital) is most significant during the acute phase of care - hospitalization - and post acute - first stages of rehabilitation. When it comes time to address the physical and cognitive deficits in the recovery/rehabilitation/remediation phase, there are enough similarities between the brain insults that allow survivors to meet under an umbrella group.

Our group members have experienced traumatic brain injury, mild traumatic brain injury, acquired brain injury such as ruptured brain aneurysm/brain surgery and stroke and congenital brain injury. Caregivers, other family members (adults only), friends, and health care professionals also attend the meetings.

The challenges faced by survivors depend on what type of brain injury has occurred, so we have a range in physical and cognitive abilities. We usually have an average of 15 people attending presentations.

Past speakers include Dr. Harold Crasilneck presenting the effects of hypnotherapy, Drs. Gray Atkins, Jonathan Walker, Marvin Sams and Sara Hunt Harper discussing neurofeedback (EEG Biofeedback techniques), Tracy Sellers introducing Brain Gym, Betty Erickson (daughter of Milton Erickson) giving a "reality check" with emotionally healthy ways to approach life, Dr. Fran Assaf presenting CranioSacral Therapy, Dr. Steve Lomber detailing how the brain overcomes injury, Roger Stainbrook and Elijah Hawken discussing the benefits of acupuncture, Dr. John-Claude Krusz discussing neuropharmocology, and Dr. Richard Fulbright presenting two lectures - one about neuropsychological testing and the other about psychosocial outcomes following traumatic brain injury.

Note: Additional information is listed under the 2007 posts. For Fun Things to Do, click on June 2007; for Free Things to Do, click on May 2007; for Resource Information, click on May 2007; for information on different therapies/remediating brain injury, click on August 2007.

For more information and/questions about the group, please contact Kimberly at aikmank@gmail.com. Please note that meetings are for adults only - we do not have the facilities to accommodate children.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: September 14, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas


The September meeting is scheduled for Monday the 14th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month - an exercise in patient advocacy.

Tonight we will hear from brain aneurysm survivors AND also talk about patient advocacy. Since this is a vast subject, we will focus on the following:

There are a number of national organizations that represent individual conditions of brain dysfunction, e.g. National Stroke Association, Brain Aneurysm Foundation, Brain Injury Association. It could be argued that instead of focusing on the individual condition, many brain injury survivors would be better served by using a "global" approach. For example, many brain aneurysm and other stroke survivors are not told they have a brain injury, and this can contribute to recovery frustrations.

A common theme that many health care organizations adopt, probably without being fully cognizant of the practise, is the use of fear of death as a motivator. For those of us who have actually faced death, been returned to life and spent some time in therapy to rid ourselves of the post traumatic stress associated with having survived such an experience, this negative motivator no longer has a place in our lives. We have found joy in living.

But how do we as patients teach those who are supposedly advocating on our behalf? During tonight's meeting, we will take a look at two brochures published by the Brain Aneurysm Foundation - and brainstorm about how to turn the negative aspects (fear of death as a motivator) into positive (joy of life). Our goal is to create an alternative marketing plan to send to the Foundation. Please take some time to review the brochures and write down your initial reaction to the handouts.

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: August 10, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas


The August meeting is scheduled for Monday the 10th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

Survivors speak: talking and listening.

Jim Goodman, Karl Heller and Horace Irwin will each share their unique experience with us.

Jim Goodman will speak of his experience as a lifetime survivor - now 65, he is a few years past a stroke that left him with Wernicke's aphasia to overcome. Even more remarkable is the fact that Jim began having heart attacks at age 37 that continued through his life. Come learn about the lifestyle choices that might have contributed, how Jim survived and how he truly appreciates every day of living he is blessed with.

Horace Irwin experienced Broca's aphasia and he will talk about his experience as well as provide some information about the condition.

Karl Heller rounds out the trio and will speak of the aphasia he experienced as a result of a car accident.

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: July 13, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas


The July meeting is scheduled for Monday the 13th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

We will learn about Brain Food.

"You are what you eat" - isn't that we all learned as children? Just a few decades ago we were instructed to eat according to the Food Pyramid.

Fast forward to the 21st century. Obesity, heart disease and diabetes plague our society. With so much new information, what's the best way to maintain a healthy, brain enriching diet?

According to Gemma Reece, author of Brain Food, "diet affects the brain chemicals that influence your mood, behaviour, thought processes, learning ability, and reactions." Tonight we will learn about what foods are best for the brain and why. We will identify the nutrients the brain needs for optimal functioning, what foods to get them from and even share recipes for easy, nutrient-rich meals.

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: June 8, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas


The June meeting is scheduled for Monday the 8th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

We will explore "How to Turn Down the Noise in Your Life."

Often times, guidance on how to manage life with brain injury can be found in the unlikeliest of places - in this case, Redbook magazine. We will be discussing the following article (paste the following web address in your browser): 

http://women.webmd.com/features/turn-down-noise-in-your-life

The subtitle for the article is "Learn to manage the distractions that sap your concentration - so you can find your focus and your peace of mind."

If you are a "seasoned" survivor, you might have already figured out that time management skills, mind-body skills, etc. are tools that help the general population and are not just brain injury specific. Everybody needs help with focus, concentration and de-stressing. Sometimes the advice given in the popular or "pop culture" magazines seems like it's come right out of a neurocognitive rehabilitation session. Have you thumbed through Oprah, Real Simple, Wired or Scientific American Mind? Chances are you'll make some great discoveries that will help improve the quality of your life!

Perhaps we could even start a magazine swap - bring your last month's magazines to the next meeting and we'll see what happens!

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: May 11, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas


The May meeting is scheduled for Monday, the 11th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

Our discussion will be on how mind-body skills can be used to help in the recovery process from brain injury.

What are mind-body skills?

Mind-body skills include guided imagery, visualization, and meditation. Concentration skills can be practised as one becomes more conscious of his/her environment. Feeling state imagery helps one relax by imagining a safe and relaxing place; end state imagery encourages one to visualize success at an upcoming task, e.g. speaking in front of a crowd or even a trip to the grocery store. Mind-body skills include stress management techniques and exercises to foster self-awareness. It is important to engage in mind-body skills in order to shift focus from a hectic life to being present in the moment.

Discussion includes sharing aspects of daily experiences, issues that are important to you, and exploring insights that you have about yourself. If you have found any mind-body skills to be particular helpful and want to share with the group, you are most welcome!

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: April 13, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas


The April meeting is scheduled for Monday, the 13th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

Our discussion will be on how brain injury can affect personal relationships and group participation is invited. Included in the discussion is right hemisphere brain injury and we will explore strategies one might use to activate the right brain and thus improve personal relationships.

What is right hemisphere brain damage?

Right hemisphere brain damage is damage to the right side of the brain. The brain is made up of two sides, or hemispheres. Each hemisphere is responsible for different body functions and skills. In most people, the left side of the brain contains the person's language centers. The right side controls cognitive functioning (thinking skills) which influences social communication (pragmatics): problems understanding nonverbal cues and following the rules of communication (e.g., saying inappropriate things, not using facial expressions, talking at the wrong time).

Damage to the right hemisphere of the brain leads to cognitive-communication problems, such as impaired memory, attention problems and poor reasoning. In many cases, the person with right brain damage is not aware of the problems that he is she is experiencing (anosognosia).

text from the American Speech Language Association web site

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: March 9, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas


The March meeting is scheduled for Monday, the 9th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

We will focus on the role of the caregiver and group participation is invited.


Topics for review include: Communication issues, Thirteen Classic Fallacies (from Straight Thinking by Stuart Chase), Dealing with Deficits, Basic Listening Skills AND
Relieving stress - we will review skills that might prove helpful when dealing with stress.

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Next meeting: February 9, 2009

Lifelines: The Brain Injury Support Group
meeting at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas


The February meeting is scheduled for Monday, the 9th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM (directions below).

Dr. Ray Mailloux, one of our members, will speak about his experience as a caregiver. As a doctor of Family Medicine, Dr. Mailloux can share some insights that the average lay person might not be aware of.

Dr. and Mrs. Mailloux, originally from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, immigrated to Sherman, Texas in 1978. They have been married 43 years and have three daughters. Dr. Mailloux had his own Family Medicine Practice from 1978 - 2001 and has been semi-retired and filling in at various clinic locations since 2001. Sandy has been a patent librarian, hospital lab tech, homemaker/wife/mother, medical office manager and investor (she was referenced in the Washington Post in 1998!).

Thank you to the Mailloux's for sharing their lives and story with us!!!

Please send a reply email to Kimberly Aikman (aikmank@gmail.com) or call 214 289 0286 so we know to expect you.

Directions to Presbyterian Hospital:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas is located on Walnut Hill Lane, just east of U.S. 75 (Central Expressway). The meetings are in the

Fogelson Building, Ground Floor, Classroom A
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
Dallas, TX 75231

Map:http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=&daddr=8200+Walnut+Hill+LN+Dallas,+TX+75231&iwstate1=dir:to&oi=manybox&ct=16&cd=1&resnum=1

When turning into the campus from eastbound Walnut Hill, the best route to take may be the driveway prior to the light for the main entrance. The driveway curves away from the main entrance (direction towards North Central Expressway) and the entry to the parking lot is on the left (gated entry). The Fogelson Building has a small dome on top and is next to the Margot Perot Center.

Using the underground parking is the easiest way to reach the meeting location; if entering from the main floor, cross the foyer (past the stairs) and take the elevators to the ground floor. Classroom A is to the left off the elevators.

Remember that parking is now free! Be sure to get your validation sticker at the start of the meeting.

Neither Lifelines nor Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas endorse or recommend any method, treatment, or a program for persons with a brain injury. The intent of the group is to provide support and make information available. Attendance in the group is not a substitute for an informed discussion between a patient and his/her health care provider. No endorsement is intended nor implied.

Information from National Family Caregivers Association

A message from the
National Family Caregivers Association

Encouraging Family Caregivers to Speak Up

January 2009 E-LETTER
TO NFCA ONLINE MEMBERS AND FRIENDS

This month find information on:

Make This the Year You Speak Up!

Value of Family Caregiving Hits $375 Billion

AARP Foundation Helps Families "Prepare to Care"

Teva Neuroscience Launches Spanish Parkinson's Disease Patient and

Caregiver Web Site

Volunteers Needed for Upcoming Clinical Trials and Research Programs

Now Available Online: NFCA's Communicating Effectively With Healthcare Professionals TeleClass

CCAN Volunteers Initiate Family Caregiver Postage Stamp Campaign


Make This the Year You Speak Up!

With the inauguration of a new president who has expressed his commitment to substantive healthcare reform, family caregivers have an opportunity like none before: to make our voice heard as the healthcare reform debate takes shape. The Obama-Biden administration is looking for ideas and feedback as it begins the long process of reshaping America's healthcare system. Let's not miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Go to http://m1e.net/c?93235626-ULg2IvKMnkPuU%403904006-DqSLCXgzLSLNo to find out how you can be a part of the discussion.

Value of Family Caregiving Hits $375 Billion

The economic value of family caregiving in the U.S. reached $375 billion in 2007, according to a new report by AARP's Public Policy Institute. The report finds that in 2007, the value of family caregiving was 7 percent higher than the estimated value of $350 billion in 2006. "Valuing the Invaluable, The Economic Value of Family Caregiving, 2008 Update" also estimates that 34 million Americans provide more than 20 hours of care per week to another adult, making family caregiving a cornerstone of U.S. health and long-term care.

The AARP report notes that family caregivers of those 50 and older spent an average of $5,531 out-of-pocket in 2007 to care for their loved ones. That spending was often coupled with lost workdays, wages, health insurance and retirement savings. The AARP report makes several recommendations to assist family caregivers, including adopting "family-friendly" workplace policies; assessing caregivers' needs and providing them with needed supports; expanding funding for the National Family Caregiver Support Program and the Lifespan Respite Care Act; and supporting family caregivers in chronic care coordination programs and care transitions.

The full report is available at:
http://m1e.net/c?93235626-/8Kp6NkmZZX7E%403904007-XoBncaPQPy8bg

AARP Foundation Helps Families "Prepare to Care"

The AARP Foundation has a publication called "Prepare to Care: A Planning Guide for Families" that provides helpful advice on everything from creating a caregiving plan to finding and obtaining basic resources. Whether you have just begun caregiving or you have been a family caregiver for years, you will find the publication's many checklists straightforward and useful. To download your copy of "Prepare to Care," go to www.aarp.org/foundation/preparetocare.

Teva Neuroscience Launches Spanish Parkinson's Disease Patient and Caregiver Web Site

Teva Neuroscience, Inc. has launched a Spanish version of their patient and caregiver resource Web site to provide important information and resources to members of the Hispanic community, living in the U.S., who are affected by Parkinson's disease (PD), an age-related degenerative disorder of the brain.

The Spanish Web site is a comprehensive resource that provides important information to help patients and families with the physical and emotional effects of PD. Spanish-speaking visitors will be able to access a wide range of information and resources, including: basic disease information and treatment options; signs and symptoms of the disease; tips on living well through a combination of treatment, activities, and support; downloadable worksheets and links to various other resources; and caregiver information. Visitors will also have access to a downloadable version of the recently released "Hacia adelante" resource guide. The easy-to-use guide is a useful tool that helps people affected by PD understand more about the disease, learn how to live well despite the diagnosis, and research various treatment options. Go to: www.azilect.com/espanol.

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Upcoming Clinical Trials and Research Programs

The following information is provided as a public service. NFCA has no connection to the clinical trials and research programs publicized below and no endorsement is implied.

Worldwide Parkinson's Disease Trial Seeks Participants

Worldwide, a team of researchers is evaluating an investigational medicine for the changes in thought, behavior, and judgment that can occur with Parkinson's disease. About 280 people will participate in this study at ap­proximately 65 research centers around the world. Participants will be asked to make seven visits to the study center. It is possible that at the end of the initial treatment peri­od, participants may have the opportunity to receive extended treatment with the active investigational drug. The clinical study is now enrolling qualified participants. To learn more, please visit www.ParkinsonsBodyMind.com or call 866/565-0262 today.

Global Multiple Sclerosis Trial: Volunteers Needed

While great progress has been made toward developing treatments for people living with MS, a need still exists for more effective treatments that may slow the progression of the disease. Researchers currently are seeking adults who are living with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) to participate in two global clinical research studies: CARE-MSSM I for adults 18-50 who have not yet begun therapy for MS other than corticosteroid treatment, and CARE-MSSM II for adults 18-55 who have experienced relapses (flare-ups) on an approved therapy to treat MS. The CARE-MS studies are designed to determine the safety and effectiveness of alemtuzumab, the investigational drug, as compared to Rebif® (interferon beta-1a), a current FDA-approved treatment. All study-required medications and procedures are provided at no cost. To learn more, call 866/790-MS-CARE (U.S. only) or visit www.CARE-MS.com.

Caregivers Wanted for Online Support Program for Stroke Families

Kent State University is conducting an NIH-funded research program designed to help female caregivers and male stroke survivors who face difficult challenges following a stroke. In this program, family caregivers will get online access to critical support, information, and education that will help to facilitate the stroke survivor's physical and emotional recovery and reduce the family caregiver's feelings of strain or burden. The program is especially targeted to caregivers and stroke survivors who feel depressed or anxious. All couples who participate will receive cash incentives up to $140. Couples must have their own computer and Internet service provider if they reside outside of Ohio. For more information, call 866/300-6657.
--

NFCA's Communicating Effectively TeleClass Available on the Web

Thanks to everyone who helped make NFCA's two-part TeleClass a huge success. If you were unable to participate during the live presentations, it's not too late to learn from them now. Both presentations have been archived and are available on NFCA's Web site.

The classes were designed to educate family caregivers on how to communicate more effectively with healthcare professionals. Learn how to: understand your role on your loved one's healthcare team; prepare for doctor office visits; develop strategies to establish rapport/collaborate with your loved one's healthcare providers; compose assertive messages for communicating in healthcare situations; and be prepared for and cope with an emergency room visit.

Don't miss out on this wonderful educational opportunity. Go to www.thefamilycaregiver.org and click on "Listen to Our Communicating Effectively Teleclass Programs."

NFCA is very grateful to Medtronic Foundation, Forest Laboratories, Inc., and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation for their support of this educational program. Additional support was provided by Intel's Digital Health Group, AGIS, Eisai Inc., Evercare, and MetLife Foundation.

CCAN Volunteers Initiate Family Caregiver Postage Stamp Campaign

NFCA's CCAN state volunteers want to see the United States honor our approximately 52 million family caregivers with a U.S. Family Caregiver Postage Stamp. To that end, Virginia CCAN Representative Terry Vasquez, who is spearheading the initiative, and other CCAN volunteers are collecting thousands of signatures to send directly to the Citizen Stamp Advisory Committee of the U.S. Postal Service. And they need your help.


Visit NFCA's Web site at www.thefamilycaregiver.org and click on the U.S. Postage Stamp button on our home page to submit a letter to the Citizen Stamp Advisory Committee. On behalf of all family caregivers, we thank you in advance for your support of this effort.

Happy New Year!

We wish you and your family a healthy and peaceful 2009. Make this the year you Speak Up for your loved one AND yourself.

PLEASE FORWARD THIS E-LETTER ALONG TO YOUR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS and ENCOURAGE ALL THE FAMILY CAREGIVERS YOU KNOW TO JOIN THE NFCA COMMUNITY OF CAREGIVERS. THERE IS NO COST! Just click here: www.thefamilycaregiver.org

------------------------------

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National Family Caregivers Association - 10400 Connecticut
Avenue, Suite 500, Kensington, MD 20895

1-800-896-3650

To unsubscribe/change profile: http://www.mailermailer.com/x?u=93235626m-533f427e
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National Family Caregivers Association
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Information on Memory and Trauma

Matt Kramer, our speaker in January, sent the following information on memory.


http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/mt/archives/2007/04/understanding_a.html


Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies

April 27, 2007
www.homestudycredits.com
Learn How to Unlock Tissue Memory

The unexpressed trauma of past experiences stored in the musculature and connective tissue of our bodies creates tension, blocks circulation and can ultimately lead to pain and disease. Learn what you can do as a massage therapist to unlock and free clients of these tissue memories.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Many scholars believe that pain and trauma are incidents prevented from being completed. These can be single damaging events such as a car accident, continuous bombardments requiring emotional defenses, or over-training of isolated muscles that lock the body into a recognized pattern. Traumas can be considered anything that keep us locked in a physical, emotional, behavioral or mental habit. Recovery from trauma is the process of the body finding balance and freeing itself from constraints. All too often, the recovery process is halted, preventing the traumatic occurrence from completing.

There are many reasons traumatic incidents cannot be completed, creating stagnation and causing a cascade of physiological protective mechanisms to separate the trauma from affecting everyday functioning. Because our bodies and emotions can only safely handle a limited amount of stress, trauma results whenever an experience exceeds our abilities to handle and cope with its consequences. The energy of the trauma is stored in our bodies’ tissues (primarily muscles and fascia) until it can be released. This stored trauma typically leads to pain and progressively erodes a body’s health.

Feelings
Emotions are the vehicles the body relies on to find balance after a trauma. Feelings represent the accumulation of incomplete events and the body’s attempt to complete them. By strengthening our inner resources, we are capable of processing these feelings, releasing stored traumas, and increasing our ability to handle stress with greater ease.

Protection
When trauma occurs, our bodies activate a protective mechanism. A stressor that is too much for a person to handle overloads the nervous system, stopping the trauma from processing. This overload halts the body in its instinctive fight or flight response, causing the traumatic energy to be stored in the surrounding muscles, organs and connective tissue. Whenever we store trauma in our tissue, our brain disconnects from that part of the body to block the experience, preventing the recall of the traumatic memory. Any area of our body that our brain is disconnected from won’t be able stay healthy or heal itself. The predictable effect of stored trauma is degeneration and disease.

Memory Beyond the Brain
There is ample scientific evidence proving memory storage in locations other than the brain abound. Three examples of the body containing extraordinary memory capabilities are:

1. Immune system response is enhanced by memory T-cells maintaining information about previous attacks by specific foreign antigens.

2. Muscle memory improves the ability of top class sports people and musicians to perform optimally even under extreme pressure.

3. Genetic research has demonstrated that the matrix composing our body’s cells (DNA) possess a complex information storage system.

When considering the vastness of our body’s intelligence, it is no wonder that our muscles and fascia are capable of holding memories.

Unlocking Memories
Three things are necessary for the body to release stored trauma:

1. The inner resources to handle the experience that were not in place when the experience originally occurred.

2. Space for the traumatic energy to go when released. Being full of tension and stress does not allow space for the stored trauma to move into.

3. Reconnection of the brain with the area of the body where the trauma is stored.

Combining bodywork with verbal therapy can successfully bring a trauma to completion. Many types of verbal therapy are ideal for the development of a person’s inner resources for handling a traumatic experience. Certain bodywork styles effectively reduce stress and tension levels making room for release as well as function to reconnect the brain with the stored trauma.

Bodyworkers play a key role in bridging locked memories with the physical body. The techniques known as myofascial release or myofascial unwinding are hands-on methods for initiating traumatic memory release. Myofascial work locates and physically frees the restrictions in muscle and surrounding fascial tissue that house traumatic memories. As a skilled therapist holds and unwinds these tissue tensions, memories may surface and release, causing the body to spontaneously "replay" body movements associated with the memory of the trauma. This release initiates relaxation, unlocking the frozen components of the nervous system. Such a shift marks the reconnection of the brain with the tissue housing the trauma, allowing transformation and healing to ensue.

Seeking Support
Bodyworkers utilizing myofascial release techniques practice within the illuminating space between physical and emotional health. While developing the emotional resources to cope with a traumatic experience is best reserved for those specifically trained in verbal therapy, bodyworkers can effectively fill the gap of total health in traumatic recovery. As psychological counseling is beyond the scope of practice for most massage therapists, it is recommended to practice release techniques with a client who has sought, or is currently seeking support from a mental health professional. Meeting all three of the components necessary for unlocking and healing from stored trauma combines the work between client, mental health professional and bodyworker. With this holistic approach, traumatic events can go to completion, allowing the body to once again find balance.

Recommended Study:
Myofascial Release
Advanced Anatomy and Physiology

References:

Grant, Keith Eric, PhD, NCTMB, Mind and Body, Massage Today, July 2003.

www.alchemyinstitute.com, The Alchemy of Healing: An Exploration of the Meaning of Illness, David Quigley, the Alchemy Institute of Healing Arts, 2006.

www.anniebrook.com, The Physiology of Shock and Trauma, Annie Brook MA, LPC, Annie Brook, 2001.

www.cranialsacraltherapy.org.uk, Tissue Memory and Trauma, David Ellis, November 2005.

www.fnd.org, Writings on the Great Unwinding, Marvin Solit, DO, The Foundation for New Directions, February 2005.

www.integrative-healthcare.org, The Therapeutic Relationship in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Natural Wellness, July 2005.

www.positivehealth.com, Biodynamic Massage: A Truly Therapeutic Massage, Denise McCrohan, Positive Health Publications Ltd., 2002.

www.satyamag.com, Releasing Muscle-Bound Memories, David Drier, Stealth Technologies Inc., November 2001.

© Copyright 2007. Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies. All rights reserved. 1-800-364-5722

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2. http://saveyourself.ca/articles/tissue-memory.php

The Body Remembers
How your body can store emotional experience in your tissues, and experience them again during massage therapy
by Paul Ingraham, Registered Massage Therapist (Vancouver)

This document expresses my opinion only, and does not replace medical advice. More …

Recently, a woman came to me with a question: “Why do I start crying when I go like this?” And she tipped her chin up into the air.

“Do you feel like crying right now?”

“Yes, but I can control it. If I stay here, though, it will get stronger until I have to cry.”

What on earth is going on here?

This is an unusually vivid and specific case of body memory or somatized emotion, a phenomenon well known to many massage therapists and mental health care professionals. Even more exotic examples come up occasionally, but the experience is stranger than the explanation.

Even after many years of scientific data (and new age propaganda), most people still tend to believe that thoughts and feelings are abstract and have little or nothing to do with the physical body. The only widely accepted example of emotions affect the body is that stress aggravates or even causes a variety of conditions, especially heart disease. But the mind-body connection it goes much deeper than that.

When you feel an emotion, you feel it all over: every cell in your body is involved

Emotions are a physical as well as a mental experience. An emotion is a set of physiological changes of all kinds, within a specific mental context. For instance, guilt is characterized by constriction of peripheral blood vessels and cooling, and increased blood pressure and muscle tone. A set of neurological and hormonal events also takes place, releasing a cocktail of molecules into the bloodstream that change the behaviour of every cell in your body. When you feel guilty, you feel guilty all over: your toe cells are affected just as much as your brain cells.

Muscle tissue in particular is involved in emotional experience. It constitutes a large and complex sensory organ (see The Sixth Sense), as well as an organ of action. A strong emotion can permanently alter the constitution of muscle tissue. Later on, stressing those tissues, or placing them in a position that physically recalls the circumstances of the original emotion, essentially recreates the sensation. In this way, emotions can become “carved in flesh,” a kind of memory — much the way a smell can evoke strong memories, a physical position can evoke them too, and strong emotions along with them.

You can think of body memory as “long term memory.” If you have a fierce, passing craving for a chocolate bar or a wave of sadness as you’re watching the news, it probably doesn’t get stored in your muscles. The stuff that gets stored tends to be either chronic or intense. In other words, the important stuff: major themes and the crises.

Emotion stored in muscles is ancient history

My client was demonstrating a very immediate recovery of emotional experience from her tissues. Whatever it was, it was ancient history. If the original emotion was felt during a crisis, she would have remembered it. The alternative is that it had to be accumulating for a long time.

We all have emotional experiences, usually sadness and anger, stored like memories in our tissues, and it is usually not so obvious. In fact, most people are not aware of it at all: it all just blends into aches and pains, and feels like weariness or anxiety.

Fortunately, it’s a fairly simple matter to create a safe opportunity to dissipate body memory, and getting rid of it can literally feel like a weight off your back. Just one more reason why people love massage therapy for reasons they can’t explain to their doctor.

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