Philicia L. Deckard, LSW CBIST
I got the chance to ask Philicia Deckard about my parent’s and Joy’s involvement in the Brain Injury Association of Illinois. This is what she told me:
Your Mom took part in our Trauma Support program during the early 2000’s. It was a program that we had for patients/family members who had recently sustained a brain injury. Your mother completed the training. Following the training, she was available to provide support and stories of her personal experiences following Joy’s injury to those who were recently injured. I believe Joy would accompany your Mom when she did meet with someone, but for the most part, her contact with those in need were via the phone.
They attended the Brain Injury Support group at Marianjoy in Wheaton.
Your parents and Joy would always attend our annual fall conference, and enjoyed talking to other individuals and family members.
Your mom was always willing to share a word of encouragement and support to those in need.
Joy enjoyed attending our summer camp program, and was always willing to take part in all the events. She smiled all the time!
My Swan Song for Joy: a Sister Memoir 