“Finding we are not alone.”

That’s the way one participant described the most valuable lesson she learned at the recent conference, “TBI Rights and Resources: Tools for Success.”

The conference was sponsored by the Arizona Center for Disability Law (ACDL), with support from the Arizona Governor’s Council on Spinal and Head Injuries. Over 200 participants attended the full-day event at the Glendale Civic Center on May 20.

“What’s unique about this conference is that it is specifically designed for consumers, their family members and caregivers,” says Martha Dennler of the Governor’s Council. “Our goal is to help consumers learn more about their rights in Arizona, as well as the resources that are available to them.”

Conference participants chose among a variety of breakout sessions that addressed healthcare, legal, and educational issues. Other sessions acquainted participants with community resources and taught advocacy skills.

In addition, the conference provided a forum for networking among participants, both formally and informally. One unique session, “TBI Dialogue: Charting the Story,” created a venue for open exchange among individuals with TBI, the family members, and caregivers, and document their stories.

The networking benefited those telling their stories as well as those who listened. One participant described the best part of the conference as “meeting so many people who have an interest in our personal struggle through the years.” Another participant expressed respect for “all the achievements that were shared by individuals with TBI.”

In addition, conference participants enjoyed having the opportunity to learn about local and state resources for individual with TBI. Over 15 service providers and governmental organizations exhibited throughout the conference, along with individuals with TBI who displayed their artwork, writings and other achievements.

This is the second year that ACDL and the Governor’s Council have partnered to produce the conference. “Last year, the conference was only half a day,” says Ms. Dennler, “but the feedback we received was phenomenal. Participants said they wanted to expand the conference to a full day.”

Conference organizers hope to produce a third annual conference next year. For more information in the coming months, check the Arizona Center for Disability Law Web site at www.acdl.com or the Governor’s Council Web site at www.azheadspine.org.