Think Twice
Tell your story...
make a difference
Would you like to tell your story?
Young people sit up and take notice when people who have been involved in serious accidents come and tell students how it happened and what the consequences have been. The attitude of "it won't happen to me" is replaced by an awareness of the consequences of their life choices and with compassion and respect for individuals who have sustained brain injury.
Each presentation runs for about an hour and includes a team of 3 speakers and a worker from the Westmead Brain Injury service.
We give a general introduction as to what acquired brain injury is, how it happens, how it is treated and what the long term effects can be. Posters are put up and students have an opportunity to experience some simulated disabilities...
Most importantly students meet and listen to stories from people like you. Speakers talk about what life was like before their accident, how they progressed through rehabilitation and what things are like now.
Sometimes a family member will also present their story of the impact an injury has on their lives.
The THiNK TWiCE team of speakers meet four times a year and ongoing training in public speaking is provided.
Opportunities to speak to different community groups occasionally arise. For example, our speakers have influenced traffic offenders, medical students and local Rotary club members.
Come along and check it out! See you soon!
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Teachers and students say:
“Our students were still talking about this presentation two days later! Our sincere thanks for your time and effort”
“He provided a great and inspiring talk”
“I like the fact that they all have a lot of courage to be here today and to have gone through recovery without opting out.”
“I think its very important for this group 2 keep going. Doing a great job. I am glad to see these people up here with the courage 2 travel on.”
“Those speeches were very emotional and really made me think about how we should live”
What can I do with THiNK TwiCE?
- learn to be a presenter
- help out with the technical side of talks
- be part of our administration team
- help with public relations & advertising
What’s in it for me?
Current and past speakers with THiNK TWiCE say:
“ I find I speak more casually, not formally. The more I get involved the happier I feel... like I’m accomplishing something and it feels great!”
“I feel more confident in speaking to people”
“ Come on and have a go. You don’t have to say yes or no, come along and see what you think.”
“ There is no pressure. There are people to back you up and support you.”
THiNK TWiCE speakers are recognised as volunteers for Westmead Hospital’s Brain Injury Unit.
Essential Criteria:
- TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY or family member of a person with TBI.
- PAST or PRESENT client of the Westmead BIRS or family member of client.
- Available to speak during school hours (on at least one day of the week)
Desirable Criteria:
- Brain injury occurred before the age of 30.
- Some awareness of problems experienced as a result of injury.
- An Interest in preventing others being injured in the same way.
- Ability to relate to & build rapport with target audience (Years 10-12 students)
If you meet our criteria & would like to become a THiNK TWiCE speaker please contact:
The THiNK TWiCE Coordinator on 9845 6906 or email
thinktwice@biru.wsahs.nsw.gov.au
You will be invited to attend our next presentation as an observer before you formally apply to become a THiNK TWiCE member. Application involves completion of volunteer paperwork & having your photograph taken for THiNK TWiCE speaker photo ID card.
