ABI Week: Steven shares his ‘On a Good Day' experiences - "I get to be me!"

Over the course of this important Action for Brain Injury week, local service users have been sharing their experiences with what it means to continue having ‘good days’ and ABI Choices (Northern Trust) service user Steven explains that a ‘good day’ meant getting to be himself once again. 

Steven began receiving support from Cedar’s ABI Choices programme in June 2023. Before this, he said that he “barely left the house,” and that “good days were limited” for him.  

But now, almost two years on, Steven says that things have vastly improved, and he’s been able to feel like he’s part of his own community again.  

He told us:

“On a good day I go to the local Men's Shed where I mix with various types of people and learn new skills, for example woodwork and painting. On a good day, I am not too tired to socialise, I attend a Headway group and take part in things like Yoga, Arts and Crafts and Boccia."  

He added:

“I have met a number of other people who, like me, have an acquired brain injury. On a good day I can spend time with family and friends, I can concentrate on conversations and really enjoy being with people. I can also attend a class at the local NRC and learn something new. On a good day, I go to the gym and complete a workout, I meet with my case officer Lauren to have a look at other community groups in my area, should I decide to attend another.” 

During these last two years, Steven says he has had the chance to learn skills he might never have had the chance to develop. “I have attended First aid workshops ran within the Cedar Foundation, as well as 6 week art sessions, and Coffee and Connect events with the Northern Recovery College. My case officer sends me information about any groups happening in the area or that she thinks I may like. On a good day I want to attend them all.  Good days help me to add structure and routine to my week, good days can be few and far between, but on a good day I get to be me.”  

Stephen at boccia looking back over his shoulder and smiling.

As ABI Week continues, stories like Stephen’s are highlighted to remind people of what it means to live each day with life-altering changes. Opportunities for connection and a focus on inclusion are essential so that individuals can feel like themselves again.  

If you would like to find out more about ABI Choices please visit the dedicated page: ABI Choices.