Midwest Brain Injury Clubhouse #GivingTuesday

"I like coming to the Clubhouse because they're my family and Clubhouse is a healing place.” Maisha was 11 years old when she experienced a debilitating and life changing seizure. Swift medical professionals were able to save her life. Maisha now lives with paralysis on the right side of her body and multiple cognitive deficits. Maisha also struggles with Aphasia, a neurological condition that makes it difficult for her to express and understand written and spoken language. Maisha is now 44 and is a dedicated member of MBIC. Maisha attends our non-profit long term rehabilitation day program. 5 days a week, Maisha works on learning to live more independently in many different areas that most people take granted. 

Maisha participates in kitchen activities to learn how to safely cook and clean for herself, she is working on improving her social appropriate behavior working side by side with members and participating in facilitated trainings and groups. Maisha is also becoming more independent by participating in outings and field trips that support her to better navigate and play a positive role in the community.

“My seizures were so bad that I had to have brain surgery to fix my seizures.  I still have seizure and have to take daily medicine, but they’re mild and don’t happen as often.” 

Maisha’s attendnce and ability to continue learning alongside members and staff on all of these necessary skills have literally come to a halt. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, MBIC has had to close a second time this year. As time passes, Maisha is missing out on important opportunities. As closures and isolation continue, she is loosing important skills that she has worked so hard to gain. “What I've been through in my life is unbelievable, but I have to live the life I have.” Maisha has a remarkable spirit. Unfortunately, stories like Maisha’s are not uncommon at MBIC. Many of our members have been unable to participate in the truly life changing programming that MBIC regularly provides. With your support, we can keep making changes in lives.