After her treatment at the Halvar Jonson Centre for Brain Injury, Aiko Au found herself on a new journey with ARBI’s rehabilitation and therapeutic programs. These programs have been instrumental in her healing process, not only through physical therapy but also by fostering moments of connection and joy. Recreational activities have played a significant role in her recovery, and Aiko reflects on how much these experiences have meant to her. 

Recently, ARBI facilitated two exciting outings for Aiko—one to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo and another to North Glenmore Park for a relaxing picnic. Both excursions were part of her recreational therapy, proving that sometimes the best medicine includes a little adventure and a lot of fun. 

In Aiko’s own words: 

“

I acquired my brain injury in late May of 2020. I took a year off after graduating high school in 2019 to work so I could attend the fall semester of post-secondary in 2020. Sadly, I got into a car accident when my vehicle was ‘T-boned’ by a city truck. 

Before my brain injury, my hobbies included playing sports like badminton and track and field, trying all sorts of cuisines (Korean BBQ and sushi were my favourites), travelling (I am a travel bug), listening to music, and, of course, driving. 

The music genres that I liked listening to before the accident were alternative rock, pop, and K-pop. I still like listening to that kind of music, but it’s difficult for me now to just pop in some headphones because I have so much tone (uncontrolled tightening and increased muscle tone caused by disrupted signals from the brain) in my hands.

One of the biggest challenges I faced, and am still facing, is the mobility in my hands. The tone in my hands and fingers inhibits me in daily tasks such as wringing out a towel, holding a cell phone, and using regular utensils.

I can only move my right arm thanks to being at Halvar Jonson for two years. I was connected with ARBI due to a referral from my doctor. Thanks to my family and friends, and especially ARBI staff, I was able to persist in my goal of getting better. Being able to get better to spend time with my family and friends, travel, and such motivates me to continue my recovery journey!

One of the personal goals I’ve achieved during my recovery is to do my makeup. I am now able to put on my own makeup. Sounds kind of silly, but I am fond of making myself presentable. 

Even though I couldn’t yet reach my goal in occupational therapy, the physio program at ARBI really helped me open my eyes to the possibilities I could reach. Physio at ARBI was tough, but sometimes you need to face hardships emotionally or physically to persevere in your rehab journey. 

A message I would like to share about recovering from a brain injury is that you really need to surround yourself with people who will support you and will drive two hours every weekend to see you. Because even if you have a brain injury, people love you and want to see you recover, and that’s exactly what my parents did!

” 

These experiences are a reminder that healing is not just about therapy—it’s about being surrounded by a compassionate community that understands your journey. With ARBI’s help, Aiko continues to push forward, rediscovering the things that bring her happiness and independence.