Traumatic brain injury affects different people in different degrees, but everyone with TBI experiences similar emotions. Dealing with TBI is challenging for both the patient and his or her family, but sharing your experiences with people who have had similar experiences can help. TBI support groups provide the opportunity to make friends and learn more about TBI.
Different TBI support groups have different focuses, so check out several, if possible, to see which one best meets your needs. Some TBI support groups emphasize learning about TBI, while others emphasize offering adaptive recreational opportunities for TBI patients. Some groups have meetings for patients and separate meetings for caregivers and family members, while others invite any one interested in TBI to the same meeting.
We have tried to make the following list as complete as possible, but there are few TBI support groups in Hawaii. Since support groups change or disband without warning we advise you to call before traveling to the group’s meeting place for the first time. If you cannot find a group in your area, you may wish to start one. The Brain Injury Association of Hawaii can provide you with helpful information on starting your own support group.
Brain Injury Association of Hawaii
2201 Waimano Home Road, Hale E
Pearl City, Hawaii 96782-1474
Phone: 808-454-0699
Fax: 808-454-1975
Email: biahi@verizon.net
Honolulu
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific Support Group Meetings
The Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific annually hosts expert guess speakers and facilitators at events for TBI patients, their families, and caregivers. Past facilitators have included Dr. Daniel Reed, a neuropsychologist with over twenty years of experience.
Meeting place:
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
226 Kuakini Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Please call the hospital for information on upcoming support groups:
Oahu 1-808-531-3511
On the other islands: 1-800-923-4226
Kailua-Kona
TBI Support Group
This group meets on the second Wednesday of each month. Please call for more details, including the time.
Meeting place:
Hawaiian Rehabilitation Services
75-165 Hualalai Road
Kailua-Kona, HI
Contact:
808-322-2352