Valerie Yamada, a spirited former-nurse, has been a part of REHAB’s community since 2017. Before coming to REHAB, Val suffered a traumatic brain injury from a workplace incident that was further complicated by a stroke that followed three weeks later. “All of a sudden, I had to relearn how to do everything. I was in a wheelchair, I couldn’t speak and I couldn’t use my dominant hand to write. The main thing I used to enjoy was dancing at my halau. Not being able to dance was very difficult.”
During her recovery, Val happened to tour REHAB with a peer mentorship group and was inspired when she saw one of our AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmills in action. Still in a wheelchair, Val hoped to find something that could help her stand and use a walker. “My dad and a close friend were my main caregivers. They helped me with everything, but I was determined to regain my independence.”
Val not only started using the AlterG and other resources at REHAB’s outpatient clinic, but began attending aqua therapy sessions and Stroke Support Group as well. “The first time I was able to get up out of the wheelchair was a big milestone for me,” Val shared. “Now I can walk, and when I’m in REHAB’s pool, the warm water relaxes my arms and I’m able to open my fingers.” Though her journey has not been easy, Val’s progress since coming to REHAB is undeniable.
"The more that I can share, then the next person may not have to struggle through the same obstacles."
Not only is Val conquering her own challenges, but she’s made it a priority to be there for others experiencing similar circumstances as well. She spearheaded a support group for people with brain injuries and sits on multiple neuro-trauma boards to advocate for patients, safety and protocol changes for the initial treatment of TBIs. Because of her professional background in healthcare and personal experience as a patient, Val’s perspective and input has been a valuable resource for improvements to TBI care. “The more that I can share, then the next person may not have to struggle through the same obstacles,” Val said.
March is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Month which seeks to raise awareness about TBI. TBIs are complex and present unique challenges for each individual with symptoms that can often affect thinking, language, learning, emotions, behavior and/or sensation. Brain injury recovery starts with compassion, as these injuries can be life altering, both for patients and their families. Our range of services addresses every aspect of the recovery process, including physical, cognitive and emotional needs.
For more information about REHAB’s services for TBI patients, visit our website rehabhospital.org or give us a call at 808.566.3741