Clients Are Given a Voice at Brain Injury RallyBy Jonathan Whitlock
Funding for services is extremely important to individuals with brain injuries. Early in April, the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania announced their plans for a rally in Harrisburg, supporting continued funding and services for those affected. Upon hearing about this from Acadia’s COO, Jack Poplar, the Acadia clients organized an outing to participate in the event, which was scheduled for Wednesday, May 2, 2012.
On the day of the event, ten clients and four staff from Acadia traveled in 2 large vans to the State Capital in Harrisburg to join the rally. After making our way through the enormous lines at the security check, we joined the crowd in the Rotunda, where there are classic marble floors and walls, and a picturesque mural on the ceiling. The rotunda was filled with advocates and survivors, many of them holding signs with messages supporting continuance of funding.
Four advocates and seven state legislators took turns talking about the matter of funding, each illustrating the issues of limited funding and delays in eligibility for services. Several family members of those with TBIs shared heart wrenching stories about their individual journeys, and gave specific examples of funding challenges. These focused on the need for immediate availability of such services as attendant care at the home, as well as community-based programs, such as Acadia and UDS - Adult Enrichment.
The advocates also endorsed the need to create a brain injury advisory board, to give the survivors an opportunity to influence their own services. Additionally, they advocated for the passage of a law, giving PA citizens the chance to make informed decisions in choosing their insurance coverage. Their last point illustrated the need to take action to prevent brain injury, which includes education in schools and communities. Increasing awareness will hopefully reduce the number of brain injuries.
After the speakers were finished, there was a chance for citizens to mingle with the legislators. We then enjoyed a wonderful lunch downstairs in the café, where many legislators meet to eat. Upon embarking back to Acadia, we were enthused about at the opportunity to participate in the rally and make ourselves heard to the state representatives.
