Headstart ABI Services

21/08/2025

A motorcycle accident changed Fred’s life forever. “I can’t be the same person I used to be. I’m different now.”

Alongside the many challenges of living with a brain injury—and the stigma that can come with it—Fred keeps smiling and finding the positives.

This Brain Injury Awareness Week, take a moment to hear Fred’s story and see how he chooses to look on the bright side.

20/08/2025

Since her aneurysm 8 years ago, Kayla hasn’t felt “normal.” While achieving goals and overcoming obstacles is indeed possible after brain injury, one of the challenges is navigating the many long-term invisible effects.

Brain Injury Awareness Week 🧠 is held annually in mid August to raise awareness of brain injury and its impact on everyday Australians. 💬 Acquired brain injury is more common that you think - affecting 1 in 45 people. This is a time to reflect on how each of us can support and advocate for people living with a brain injury and continue to grow awareness and understanding throughout Australia.

At Headstart we walk alongside people each step, dealing with the Invisible symptoms like memory loss, irritability, pain, and impulsiveness which affect everyday life. We work towards overcoming stigmas and empowering people to live life on their own terms.

19/08/2025

2,500 kms over rough terrain in 5 days in a 25+ year old car is just the type of adventure Care and CET Coordinator Heather is up for! 🚙 The “Mystery Box Rally” is on now and raises money for the Cancel Council - something close to Heather (pictured lying down) and Michael’s hearts. Thanks for flying the Headstart flag during Brain Injury Awareness Week while raising money for the Cancel Council! 🙌

Check out Mystery Box Rally for more or visit Heather's page https://bit.ly/45otnUJ to donate to the cause 👍

Our next Sept NewsLink will feature more of Heather's story… so stay tuned - and hopefully their car is well tuned up too! 🚙 😆

18/08/2025

When Darren was just 9 years old, his life changed forever after being hit by a car outside his school gate.

Today marks the start of Brain Injury Awareness Week 🧠(18–24 Aug) — a time to shine a light on the real-life challenges faced by people like Darren. Social isolation and feeling disconnected after a brain injury is all too common.

Whether you’re living with a brain injury, supporting someone who is, or working in the sector, meaningful connection is always possible. This is a week for Darren and many others to be seen, heard, and empowered.💬

At Headstart, we walk alongside people in their struggles and help them work towards their goals. Through our Rec group, we provide opportunities for genuine social connection — and we love having Darren join our weekly events.

17/08/2025

Shockingly, 36% of youth in detention have been diagnosed with FASD or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Tomorrow is the start of Brain Injury Awareness Week (18–24 August), and we join Synapse - Australia's Brain Injury Organisation in shining a light on the invisible disabilities affecting young people, especially those coming in contact with the justice system.

FASD is often misunderstood or missed entirely, but early recognition and support can change lives. It’s time for visible change for those living with invisible symptoms of a brain injury such as fatigue, memory loss, irritability, pain, and impulsive behaviours.

More broadly, with 1 in 45 Australians living with a brain injury, this coming week is critical in starting conversations to ensure the rights of people impacted by brain injury are being upheld.

16/08/2025

The theme of Brain Injury Awareness Week 2025 is ‘Invisible disabilities deserve visible change.’ We proudly join Synapse - Australia's Brain Injury Organisation to raise awareness of how the ‘invisible disability’ of brain injury intersects with issues of domestic and family violence, justice, homelessness, and beyond – while providing a roadmap to meaningful change for those living with a brain injury.

By raising awareness of these issues, we can break down the current barriers in our systems to create meaningful change for those with a brain injury. This Brain Injury Awareness Week, we join with Synapse in calling for visible change.

15/08/2025

"Be kind always, because you don't know what people are going through." says Neil. Next week is Brain Injury Awareness Week 🧠 (18-24 Aug) and in the lead up stroke survivor Neil shares candidly of his struggles. 💬

Each year, BIAW shines a spotlight on the impact of brain injury on everyday Australians. It’s a chance for all of us to reflect, learn, and take action—whether that’s showing support, speaking up, or helping grow understanding in our communities. Together, we can make Australia a more inclusive and informed place for people living with brain injury.

11/08/2025

Our Community Education Team had a great visit to WHOS Rehab in Cessnock, where we spoke about the dangers of overindulgence and the risk of brain injury from intoxication—especially when driving under the influence.

CET presenters Tracey, Romeo, and Colin delivered an outstanding session, with great audience interaction and plenty of heartfelt moments as people reflected on the message. 👏👏👏

08/08/2025

Our final Rec art workshop wrapped up this week! 👌 Everyone had a blast combining pastels with the techniques and mediums we explored over the past few weeks. Big shout out to our talented CSW Melinda for running these creative sessions – thank you, you’re amazing!!
🎨 Jay: “I find art very soothing.”
🎨 Imelda: “I really enjoy painting!”

07/08/2025

Jay, Rec coordinator Aleisha and CSW Kaelan had a coffee at bar beach and watched for whales 🐋… on a day sunnier than today! 😎🌞 Whales were a no show but you’ve got to be in it to win it 😁👍

06/08/2025

We are hiring for an Accounts Receivable & Invoicing Role, with NDIS knowledge a must. Apply now and be part of a friendly team making a real difference in the lives of people with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI).👇

Newcastle based Not for Profit is seeking a new team member to join their Finance Team. Must have knowledge of NDIS Invoicing.

05/08/2025

Rec smiles at Hunter Ice Skating Stadium with Leah loving it! ⛸❄️🃏🍽️ The fun continued with a tasty lunch and a few rounds of UNO at Cardiff RSL Club .👌