People coping with brain injuries are discovering comfort knowing they are not alone thanks to the Salem Brain Injury Support Group.

Originally started 20 years ago with the help of Salem Hospital therapists, the group fosters independence and friendships­—and currently has about 30 members.

“I strongly encourage finding a support system. It’s very important,” said Megan Snider, therapy aide and group facilitator. The support group plays a vital role for people dealing with the many consequences of brain injury, including physical, cognitive and psychological challenges. “Your life has changed. Some things will never be the same. But you can grow from where you are—and our group is a perfect example of that,” said Snider.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 1.7 million Americans sustain a traumatic brain injury every year. Leading causes are falls, motor vehicle crashes and traffic-related incidents, but can also result from struck by/against events (which include colliding with a moving or stationary object), and assault.

Salem Health produced a video about the Salem Brain Injury Support Group that can be viewed online at this YouTube link: http://youtu.be/CuHzvjyKd2I. The group gathers weekly at IKE Box Coffee Shop in Salem, plus holds monthly meetings at Salem Hospital’s Regional Rehabilitation Center. New members are always welcome. For more information call 503-561-1974.

Salem Health is comprised of Salem Hospital, West Valley Hospital, Willamette Health Partners and other affiliated health care organizations offering exceptional care to people in and around Oregon’s mid-Willamette Valley. Visit us at salemhealth.org; “Like” us on facebook.com/salemhealth; follow us on Twitter: @salemhealth; and view us at youtube.com/salemhealth.