The holiday season is often described as the “most wonderful time of the year,” but for adult survivors of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), it can be a challenging and overwhelming period. The sensory overload, disrupted routines, and emotional expectations tied to the holidays can create unique hurdles. Caregivers, too, may find themselves grappling with how best to support their loved ones while managing the demands of the season. This blog post explores the unique challenges TBI survivors face during the holidays and offers practical strategies to make the season more manageable and enjoyable for all involved. … [Read more...]
Vietnam War Veteran and Crumley House Cofounder Steve Barrett Completes Honor Flight Journey to Washington, D.C.
As Veteran’s Day approaches, our nation takes time to honor the bravery and sacrifices of the men and women who have served in the armed forces. For many, these moments of recognition bring forth memories of service, camaraderie, and sometimes loss. For U.S. Army Vietnam War veteran and Crumley House Cofounder Steve Barrett, these memories are not bound to a single day—they remain vivid and enduring. Recently, Barrett was among a group of approximately twenty veterans from the Appalachian Highlands region who participated in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. The Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands is a branch of the national Honor Flight Network, a program dedicated to transporting veterans to the nation’s capital to visit the memorials built to honor their service and sacrifice. This journey offered Barrett and his fellow veterans a moment to reflect, remember, and receive long-overdue recognition. … [Read more...]
Coping with Traumatic Brain Injuries in the Aftermath of Natural Disasters like Hurricane Helene
From Florida to our home here in Appalachia, the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has added immense stress and uncertainty to the lives of so many. Obviously, these will be compounded as Hurricane Milton tears through Florida this week. When natural disasters strike, everyone is affected in some way, but for individuals living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), the effects can be particularly overwhelming. For those with TBIs and their caregivers, this stress can have a magnified impact, making it more difficult to manage day-to-day functions. … [Read more...]