Posted on September 24, 2008 · Posted in Brain Injury

The acknowledgment that brain injury is an important concern has been sparked by stories of soldiers affected by the war in Iraq. But long before 911 or our involvement in Iraq, the United States has been well served by the Brain Injury Association of America in its advocacy for brain injured individuals.

On the state level, state brain injury associations are active in all aspects of brain injury. You can find your state office by visiting http://biausa.org/stateoffices.htm Each year these associations hold state conferences to address the needs and concerns of those in the brain injury field and those affected by brain injury on a personal basis.

In Wisconsin we are represented by BIAW: http://biaw.org/site/

During this year’s conference they are hoping to address a myriad of topics and concerns.

Many have inquired about the possibility of a summer camp for TBI individuals. If you are interested in participating in a summer camp please email Terri Swanson at admin@biaw.org or write to them at BIAW, 21100 W. Capitol Dr. Ste. 5, Pewaukee, WI 53072. They are also looking for input or suggestions on topics or speakers.

In order to increase the number of Certified Brain Injury Specialists in Wisconsin they are contemplating holding a training and examination the day before the conference. This would fulfill the annual 10 hours of in-service training required of service providers.

They are also interested in any input on what program, resource or service needs should be addressed as well as seeking interested survivors, family members and professionals who might be willing to speak during the program.

The 19th Annual Wisconsin Conference on Brain Injury will take place on May 12th and 13th at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center in Green Bay, WI. Please check their website for updates on the schedule. http://biaw.org/site/

If brain injury touches your life in any way I strongly urge you to attend your state conferences and to become a member of your state association. It is numbers that make the difference.

About the Author

Attorney Gordon S. Johnson, Jr.
Past Chair Traumatic Brain Injury Litigation Group, American Association of Justice
g@gordonjohnson.com :: 800-992-9447