by Sherese Danielle Ezelle, LMHC, LCPC, NCC
Director, Behavioral Health Integration
In the heart of Kitsap County, a vibrant community is flourishing, born from the need for connection and support among individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). It all started with a simple idea—a "Rock, Walk, or Roll" event inspired by a similar race around Seattle’s Greenlake. The long drive from the peninsula to Seattle prompted one determined woman to bring the event closer to home, leading to the birth of the Kitsap Brain Injury Group.
The power of support
For Bill Hortenstine, a long-time advocate and TBI survivor, the Kitsap Brain Injury Group is more than just a gathering; it’s a lifeline. Bill, who sustained a TBI as a child, has spent years learning how to navigate life with a brain injury. His mission is clear: “I want to share the lessons I’ve learned with others who are new to this journey.”
Bill emphasizes the importance of support groups as primary mechanisms for healing and adaptation. “A lot of TBI survivors are stubborn,” he notes, acknowledging the challenges many face in integrating new ways of thinking and living. Through the support group, individuals find solace in shared experiences and come away with valuable insights on overcoming life’s obstacles.
The need for mental health resources
The mental health challenges faced by TBI survivors are significant. The journey of recovery often involves feelings of confusion, frustration, and isolation. As Bill shares, “The biggest challenge of a TBI is being easily confused and overwhelmed.” Access to mental health resources is crucial in helping individuals navigate these complex emotions and adapt to their new reality.
To address this need, the Kitsap Brain Injury Group has partnered with Project Access Northwest and their Pro Bono Counseling program. This partnership provides essential mental health support to TBI survivors who might otherwise struggle to access care. By offering free counseling services, the program ensures that survivors receive the emotional and psychological support necessary for healing and growth.
Overcoming challenges together
The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of community events, leaving many without a sense of belonging. Moreover, the group’s dedicated occupational therapist in Silverdale had to step back due to health challenges related to long COVID. This left a void in leadership and support that Bill has courageously stepped in to fill.
“A survivor has to learn how to be someone else and adapt to this new feeling of unknowing,” Bill adds, highlighting the transformative power of shared experiences and understanding within the group.
A call to action
Community events like "Rock, Walk, and Roll" have historically played a vital role in fostering connection and awareness. However, since COVID, there have been no such events on the peninsula. Bill sees an opportunity here, expressing a desire to explore new ways to engage the community and raise awareness. “It’s been hard since COVID, but we need to find other ways to bring people together,” he asserts.
Bill’s leadership and dedication are inspiring, but he acknowledges the need for more resources and ideas to expand the group’s reach. He invites others to join in this mission, emphasizing the importance of mental wellness for TBI survivors.
The road ahead
As the Kitsap Brain Injury Group continues to grow, it remains a beacon of hope and resilience. By fostering a supportive community and leveraging community connections like the one with Project Access Northwest, it helps individuals navigate the complexities of life after a TBI. Bill’s work highlights the transformative power of connection, understanding, and shared experience.
This connection with Project Access Northwest's Pro Bono Counseling program is crucial. It provides TBI survivors with access to much-needed mental health resources, offering counseling services that help address the emotional and psychological challenges they face. With this support, individuals can better manage their recovery and find new ways to thrive.
Building a stronger community
The group is committed to finding innovative ways to engage the community and raise awareness about TBI. By organizing events and promoting mental health resources, they aim to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported and understood.
Bill’s vision for the future includes expanding these efforts and encouraging more community involvement. “We need to build more bridges and create spaces where TBI survivors can connect and learn from each other,” he says.
Conclusion
In these challenging times, the Kitsap Brain Injury Group stands as a testament to the strength of community and the importance of mental wellness. With the support of partnerships like those with Project Access Northwest, they are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all TBI survivors. Together, they are transforming lives, one step at a time.