Brain Injury Lawyer Blog

Yesterday I dedicated this blog to the death of a great pioneer in the field of brain injury, Bryan Jennett, M.D. of the GCS scale. Today, I would like to give best wishes to a former advocacy colleague of mine, Pat David, of the Brain Injury Association of Wisconsin. I joined this organization in 1994 and became a member of its board for several years thereafter. Pat was the rock of that organization since that time and today announced her retirement. It comes with some good news, the passing in the House of Representatives of the TBI Act.

Here is the BIAW’s press release relative to Pat:

Dear Members & Donors:

I wanted to inform you of my pending retirement from the Brain Injury Association in June of 2008. I am so grateful for the past fifteen years and the opportunity to serve individuals with brain injury and their families in Wisconsin. I want to thank you, our members and donors, because it is your support that is the foundation upon which this organization was built and will grow. It has been a true privilege for which I am grateful.

Our Board of Directors is currently in the process of screening applicants for the Executive Director position and establishing a process for interviewing. We are also receiving input from our collaborative partners from the Dept. of Health and Family Services and the WI Brain Injury Advisory Council. Our plan is to have an individual in place before my departure to facilitate a smooth transition. I will keep you informed as that process further evolves.

I also need to share some breaking news….Yesterday, the US House of Representatives passed legislation to reauthorize the TBI Act (S. 793), by a vote of 392-1. The bill authorizes programs over the period of FY 2009 through FY 2012. Thanks to all who made their opinions known by contacting their Representative! The bill will next go to the US Senate once again, where approval is expected. Pending passage in the Senate, it would then be sent on to the President for his signature.

Thank you and do not hesitate to contact us at admin@biaw.org or 1-800-882-9282 with questions.

Sincerely yours,
Pat David
Director of Operations

Pat, your absence will be felt and I trust that your successor will do his or her best to carry on your mission.