Brain Injury Association of York Region
Mask Photos & Descriptions
Project by Deborah (Caregiver)
BIA York Region
Cause of Injury
Motor vehicle accident
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I don’t feel understood, makes me feel unworthy, embarrassed to say what I need to say. When I do I feel discredited and put down, like I don’t matter. I am tired, because it is constant and exhausting to try so hard to make things work. I am optimistic and feel it is a miracle my husband is alive and highly functioning. I love him with all my heart and soul and I know he is trying too. It is a challenge I will never give up on. There are wonderful moments and then feelings of helplessness and despair.
Project by Heather
BIA York Region
Cause of Injury
Stroke, February 1995
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Amazing, awesome, brave, cheerful, delighted. 20 years later, I am Okay.
Project by Joe
BIA York Region
Cause of Injury
Accident at theme park ride.
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All I have now is hope, faith, love and family, friends and my community. The mask identifies areas that have changed my life forever. My ear pain, hearing sensitivity, balance issues have no cure! Headaches, mental fatigue, anxiety and physical pain. Meditation Reiki, and Yin Yoga for spiritual healing.
Project by John A.
BIA York Region
Cause of Injury
Work related accident in May 2016. I was struck in the head by a 7,500 lb fly form, it knocked me out for 3-5 minutes.
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The side of my mask painted black represents the negative people and co-workers that don’t see an injury. They don’t believe I have one. I feel ignored, depressed and uncertain of my future. I am scared and fed up with life. I have a lot of anger and hate. The other side of my mask painted white symbolizes the frustration and pain. I can’t handle the brightness of lights or loud noises. I am tired of being judged and financially insecure. The challenge of moving on with simple tasks and my memory loss gives me more stress. I am dealing with constant migraines and doctors just keep prescribing pills. WSIB just wants me to go back to work – they don’t care that I am not getting better.
Project by Marie
BIA York Region
Cause of Injury
Stroke and aneurysm
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Rage, but I like the sun and blue sky. I’m still here and living life.
Project by Pat
BIA York Region
Cause of Injury
Epidermoid tumour
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Shows the frustration of taking this journey.
Project by Rose (Caregiver)
BIA York Region
Cause of Injury
Caregiver for my spouse – he suffered a concussion injury working in high rise construction in May 2016.
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The mask painted in grey represents the sense of loss and depression that I am battling. One green eye symbolizes my restored healing and growth. One blue eye means I am seeking peace and tranquility both physically and mentally. The purple upper lip represents my spirituality and mindfulness connection with the universe. The pink lower lip symbolizes my attempt to reduce aggression and to regulate my mood. It also means my willingness to nurture the love and support for my husband. My resilience and determination will never break. The tree represents overcoming the unexpected, I may bend but I spring back and continue to flourish.