Family Connections

When someone sustains a spinal cord injury, everything changes. For the person with the injury and those closest to them. There’s so much to know.

SCIO has created an eight-week series of informative sessions to help family members deal with the new challenges of supporting a loved one with a spinal cord injury. From coping with grief and stress to navigating all the resources available, we will be your guide in this new world.

The goal is to help family members feel empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones, and to be armed with the knowledge and tools they need to be successful for this. It is also an opportunity to connect with others and draw upon the power of shared experiences.

What does the group look like?

The group runs for a series of 8 weeks on Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
We aim to offer 3 groups a year in fall, winter, and spring
Maximum number of 6 participants to allow for greater group cohesion and sharing

The 8 weeks cover the following topics:

1

Introduction to Group

Conduct an examination of the overlapping government programs across the different departments to assess hidden costs and opportunities to reduce red tape.
2

Coping with Loss and Grief

Navigate emotions and learning how to manage them in order to cope with changes
3

Relationship Changes

Understand impact of SCI on relationships and learning strategies to rebuild your relationship going forward
4

Understanding Sexuality and Creating Intimacy

Focus on creating and strengthening intimacy post – SCI
5

Managing Stress

Learn to build resiliency, understanding stress and our response to it
6

Problem Solving and Setting Boundaries

Explore problem solving, the importance of boundary setting and share experiences
7

System Navigation

Learn about general resources and how to access them
8

Yoga Nidra

Join us for a relaxing Yoga Nidra Session also known as sleep yoga. Be prepared for total rest and relaxation

Upcoming Family Connections for people supporting a loved one with a SCI:

Next Session

October 16th – December 4th
8 Weeks on Wednesdays from 2:00 – 3:30pm

Referral Criteria:

Person must be 16 years of age or older and supporting a loved one with a spinal cord injury
Participants must be able to:
1. Commit to attending all 8 weekly sessions
2. Have access to a private/quiet space
3. Have access to a laptop, tablet, or phone with a camera and reliable internet for the use of Zoom

If you are interested in learning more or putting your name on our list for the next group, please contact one of the following:

Sheri Upper: [email protected]

Stephanie Bolton: [email protected]

Phone: 1-877-422-1112