Image: Fraser Health Acquired Brain Injury Services Team / Provided

By Alyssa Conti

BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH

Fraser Health introduces support for patients with brain injury from toxic drug use

Jun 21, 2025 | 2:23 PM

ABBOTSFORD — The region’s health authority is looking to raise awareness about some services available to brain injury survivors, especially those who suffered from toxic drug poisoning.

Fraser Health has contracted Lookout Housing and Health Society and Connective Support Society to provide complete, wraparound care at four housing sites in Abbotsford, Coquitlam and Surrey, with 26 beds dedicated to people with brain injuries who use substances and have complex needs.

“By delivering trauma-informed care in this way to this population, we are supporting people with the services they need to move forward in their journey,” says Sonja Vance, regional manager, Home and Community Care and Acquired Brain Injury Services, Fraser Health.

Clients have access to a range of services, including occupational therapy, nursing, physiotherapy and more. They also acquire life skills necessary for independent living, such as shopping, laundry, and household management.

“Over the past few years, we’ve made meaningful improvements to the way we deliver services through our Brain Injury Program,” added Sonja. “We’ve significantly reduced long-standing waitlists and expanded our services to ensure clients receive personalized, community-based support.”

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The Acquired Brain Injury Services Team at Fraser Health supports more than 500 clients in maximizing recovery through innovative, comprehensive care.

“Our Case Management and Quick Response teams work closely together to help transition complex clients out of hospital and into appropriate community settings. This not only enhances patient care but also helps free up vital hospital resources for those in greatest need.”

Toxic drug use can lead to shallow breathing, which starves the brain of oxygen needed for its survival and can cause brain injury within just a few minutes.

June is Brain Injury Awareness Month in Canada. More information on Fraser Health’s brain injury services is available here.