Shir’s Story

Shir began working with the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska through a training in North Platte to help screen individuals affected by domestic violence for brain injuries. But when she did the screening on herself, she was amazed at the results.

It was an eyeopener, she explained, and that is why she thinks it’s important that tools like this are available. “There needs to be a wider availability of screening tools and research done for brain injuries.”

Agencies like the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska provide screening tools, but more than that, they provide support for individuals affected by brain injury. “This support is important because people affected might feel alone or not have any knowledge on what a traumatic brain injury is. They might not have anyone to turn to.”

As a survivor, Shir knows that if she didn’t have people to help her, including her mother, she wouldn’t be where she is today. “But not everyone has that,” she said. “Having local support is especially crucial, as a lot of people affected by brain injury may not have insurance, transportation or the knowledge or ability to go online. Neglect is causing a system failure, and people don’t have the resources, availability or understanding about how to deal with a TBI. The Brain Injury Alliance can help.”

By giving to Combined Health Agencies Drive and supporting our 22 member charities, including Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska, you can help those affected by a brain injury.