Photos: Supplied.
In 2012, Angela Kalantzis suffered a traumatic brain injury when, as she puts it, had an “altercation with a camper trailer”. The mother of two loves to share her experience – with humour where she can – to support others to accept, adapt, and find fulfilment in a new way of living after a brain injury.
Angela founded The Brain Injury Community, a not-for-profit charity, in 2021. The charity provides support services for people impacted by brain injury and disability.
“We promote quality of life, self-determination, and choice through information, specialist support, networking, events and connecting brain injury survivors and service providers in their local area,” Angela explains.
“Additionally, we guide families, support workers, allied health workers, medical professionals and the disability sector with an understanding of their patient’s day-to-day lives to enhance the support we receive for this ‘invisible disability’.”
The Wynnum community recently got behind The Brain Injury Community at its inaugural fundraising event, held at The Waterloo Bay Hotel in Wynnum.
The night was brimming with a joyous atmosphere as 36 guests were entertained by the enchanting tunes of Nix Gross, a talented bayside performer and artist.
Thanks to the unwavering support of volunteers, local businesses and sponsors, The Brain Injury Community Inc. raised over $3,500 for their charity members, families and their support networks.
“All funds raised will enable us to establish vital social and support connections for individuals with brain injuries, as well as their loved ones and support system,” said Angela.
“These fundraising initiatives enable us to offer valuable resources and educational opportunities to professionals who aspire to augment their understanding and awareness of brain injuries.
“In our perspective, this exemplifies the epitome of locals supporting locals.”
For more information or to donate, please visit www.braininjurycommunity.org.au.
