Randy Werner
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In 1993, I fell fifteen feet at work and hit my head on a concrete floor. I was only 21 years old, and the fall left me with multiple injuries, including a traumatic brain injury. It changed the course of my life, but it didn’t stop me.
I worked hard through recovery, took courses, and eventually secured a full-time career with the City of Powell River. I stayed in that role for 21 years, even while managing the challenges of living with a brain injury. During that time, I got married, raised a family, and renovated a couple of homes. Being a husband and father has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
Back in the mid-1990s, I attended a monthly brain injury support group, but at the time, it didn’t feel like the right fit. I moved forward on my own path—until 2018, when I was diagnosed as permanently disabled. That’s when I found my way back to the Powell River Brain Injury Society. This time, it was different. The drop-in centre was open five days a week, and I found not only resources and support—but a community.
What started as an occasional visit became a regular part of my life. Today, the Society feels like family to me. I’m involved as a client, volunteer, back-up peer support helper, gardener, and I’m proud to have served on the board of directors.
Being a part of the Brain Injury Society brings me immense joy. I’ve found purpose, connection, and belonging here. Volunteering has given me the chance to support others walking a similar path, and that means the world to me.
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