Brain Injury Awareness Month shines a light on innovative programs supporting people with brain injuries. Fraser Health’s Acquired Brain Injury Services has partnered with the City of Surrey and Blind Tiger Comedy to offer improv classes, building confidence, communication skills and community connection.
(Photo) Brain injury improv class, Clayton Heights Community Centre
There’s a common question in improv: What happens next?
No script. No wrong answer. Just a moment to think and the courage to step outside your comfort zone.
“I like coming here because I can just be myself and I don’t have to hold back,” says Amanda. I feel really comfortable, and I feel like I can say and do anything while I’m here.”
Amanda is one of about 20 participants in an organized, structured improv class specifically designed for people with brain injuries. The two-hour classes are run by Blind Tiger Comedy once a week for seven weeks, and all adults with brain injuries are welcome to attend.
“It’s fun,” says Kevin. Like many brain injury survivors, Kevin is living with aphasia, a neurological condition that interferes with his ability to speak, write and understand language.
After a brain injury, communication can be challenging and exhausting. Improv removes that pressure by creating a space where there are no right or wrong answers.
“It’s really hard work to always find the right word after a brain injury, especially for people with aphasia,” says Lauren Webb, Fraser Health recreation therapist. “These sessions are an opportunity for people to engage in conversation that is creative and spontaneous and, at the same time, put themselves out there and be vulnerable.”
During one session, participants were asked: “If you could relive one year of your life, what would it be?” For Neil, a former pilot, it was the year he flew into some of the most remote regions of Canada.
“I always used to be in charge of myself and other people with flying, and I don’t have that luxury anymore,” says Neil.
Neil attends the program to help overcome his fear of being around people.
“It’s unique to be around people and see their challenges as well as my own,” says Neil. “And it’s hilarious.”
The program currently operates out of Clayton Heights Community Centre. “This partnership with the City of Surrey is a great example of community integration,” says Sonja Vance, regional manager, Fraser Health Home and Community Care, Acquired Brain Injury and Concussion Services. “It creates opportunities for connection in everyday settings, helping people rebuild confidence, reduce isolation and move forward in their lives.”
A common rule in improv is to respond with “yes, and,” accepting what your scene partner has offered and adding new information of your own to keep the story going.
Yes, and you can learn more about Fraser Health Acquired Brain Injury Services here.
Yes, and you can watch an improv class here.
