Meet Our Primary Team
Chris Rafuse CTRS, BSc-TR, DRV
Executive Director
Lisa Williams HBSW, IALC
Community Education &
Program Development Manager
Brain on Wheels Rehab Society truly cares about helping others maintain and improve their brain health. Our team members don't just bring their professional knowledge to the table - they bring their hearts too. We're always learning, growing, and staying up-to-date with new research because we want to give our clients the best possible care. Nothing makes us happier than teaching people about brain health, preventing problems before they start, and creating personalized plans that help our community members stay sharp and independent. It's more than just a job for us - it's our calling.
Areas We Currently Serve
The Cowichan Area
We service the Cowichan area, located on Southern Vancouver Island, encompassing a region centered around the city of Duncan, BC.
Including the communities of:
Ladysmith, Chemainus, Crofton, Maple Bay, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Malahat, Lake Cowichan, Youbou, Honeymoon Bay, Nitinat, and the Gulf Islands.
At Brain on Wheels Rehab Society, we are proud to serve our local communities with dedication and care. As we continue to grow, we are committed to expanding our reach to support even more individuals in enhancing their brain health and achieving independence. Our aim is to bring our innovative programs and compassionate support to new areas, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Stay tuned as we journey to extend our services beyond current boundaries and make a positive impact on even more lives.
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge with respect that we are on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded lands of the Coast Salish Peoples and recognize The People of the Warm Land, The Cowichan Tribes First Nation, on whose beautiful land we work, live and play. We raise our hands in gratitude to the Quw'utsun, Malahat, Ts'uubaa-asatx, Penelakut, Stz'uminus, Lyackson, Ditidaht, and Pacheeddaht Peoples for welcoming us and allowing us to call their land home. We commit to walk gently with thoughtful consideration for the seven generations that came before us and the seven generations to come.
The Six Pillars of Brain Health
The Six Pillars of Brain Health are:
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Physical Exercise
- Cognitive Stimulation
- Stress management
- Social Connection
These pillars represent lifestyle factors that significantly impact cognitive function and overall brain health. By focusing on these areas, individuals can proactively support their brain health and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Together We Thrive!
Proud Members of:
- Duncan Chamber of Commerce
- Volunteer Canada
- Canadian Therapeutic Recreation Association
- British Columbia Therapeutic Recreation Association
- American Therapeutic Recreation Association
Our Commitment to Compassionate Care
"In Search of the Starfish: Creating a Caring Environment" is a book (authored by: Mary Hart, Karen Primm, and Kathy Cranisky) that delves into the creation of nurturing and compassionate environments, emphasizing the importance of empathy, connection, and holistic care. The book uses the metaphor of a starfish to illustrate the idea that even small acts of care can have a rippling effect, much like how a single starfish can regenerate lost limbs and thrive.
At Brain on Wheels Rehab Society, we've embraced the transformative principles from this book to enhance our approach to brain health. This insightful book has guided us in cultivating a nurturing and empathetic atmosphere, where every client is valued and supported on their journey to recovery.
Relating to a Brain Health Organization:
For Brain on Wheels Rehab Society, the principles from this book are directly applied to create a supportive and healing atmosphere using a client-centric approach.
1. Foster Empathy and Connection
Personalized Interactions:
We encourage team members to build strong, empathetic relationships and engage in meaningful conversations with clients to understand their unique experiences and needs. This helps build trust and a sense of security.
Active Listening:
We train team members to practice active listening, ensuring clients feel heard and valued. This can improve client satisfaction and outcomes.
2. Holistic Care Approach
Comprehensive Assessments:
We evaluate not just the cognitive health of clients, but also consider their emotional, social, and physical well-being. This can provide a more complete picture of their health needs and aligns with the focus on comprehensive care.
Integrated Care Plans:
We develop care plans that incorporate therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support, addressing all facets of a client's life.
3. Empowerment and Recovery
Goal Setting:
We work with clients to set realistic recovery goals and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. This can boost confidence and motivation.
Self-management Tools:
We provide clients with tools and resources to manage their health, fostering independence. Just as a starfish regenerates, Brain on Wheels Rehab Society focuses on empowering individuals to recover and regain their cognitive health. We celebrate incremental successes to motivate clients and team members alike.
4. Community Involvement
Support Groups:
We facilitate or encourage participation in support groups where clients can share experiences and find community support.
Public Awareness Campaigns:
We engage in campaigns to raise awareness about brain health and reduce stigma, creating a more nurturing community environment. We also collaborate with the broader community to create networks of support and understanding, thus extending the reach and impact of your care.
The Brain Mobile!
Introducing The Brain Mobile! This uniquely designed vehicle, resembling a brain, is our innovative way of bringing educational programs and resources directly to the community. With The Brain Mobile, we aim to make learning accessible and engaging for everyone. Here’s how we roll out our programs:
- On-the-Move Education: We deliver interactive sessions and workshops no matter where you are in the Cowichan Area.
- Community Engagement: Catch The Brain Mobile at local events, where it transforms into a hub of learning and excitement.
- Hands-On Learning: Experience our programs through fun, educational exhibits and demonstrations.
We’re excited to connect with you and spark curiosity across neighborhoods!
