| 2005 / 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 |
| 475 | 1097 | 1331 | 1221 |
How our Totes are Distributed
We have formed unique and special relationships with our hospital partners and the staff who work there. Our contacts within the hospital order tote bags directly from us and maintain a steady supply so they are always on hand for families who need them.
Each hospital partner has its own distribution method and protocols on how and when the totes are delivered to the families of a Traumatic Brain Injury patient. Some choose to have a chaplain staff member distribute one immediately upon arrival, while others will have a designated Nurse or Social Worker provide the family with a tote bag once the patient has been moved to the Intensive Care Unit.
We ask only that the following criteria be met:
- Every family experiencing a moderate or severe TBI will be provided a tote bag. In some cases if 2 bags may be given, so that extended families have the information they need.
- The totes are provided to the family in a caring and compassionate way as early as reasonably possible upon arrival as this is when the family is in the most need of Hope and Comfort.
- The family is informed that the tote bag comes from an organization founded by a mother who has been where they are now.
All about our totes and what comes inside
Our Tote bags are made of a sturdy off-white canvas with zippered closure and internal pocket. They are 20" X 20" with a 4" expandable bottom and shoulder straps. Our logo on the front depicts an angelic motherly figure bent in prayer and set on an oasis. The name of the organization encircles this scene and represents our faith-based mission to surround a family with an oasis of comfort and hope. Our 24 Hour Toll Free Phone Number 1-800-TBI-HOPE is on the backside of the tote bag which lets the family know they are not alone and that others who have been through the experience will speak to them anytime.
Here is what comes inside each tote bag:
- Introduction Brochure
- Travel Pillow
- Fleece Blanket (50"x60")
- Personal Care & Toiletry Items (Shampoo, Body Wash, Shaving Cream, Lotion, Hair Brush & Comb, Lip Balm, Deodorant, Q-Tips, Tylenol, Tissues, Razor, Hand Sanitizer, Toothbrushes, and Toothpaste.)
- Business Card Holder
- Lined Writing Journal and Life’s New Journey’s Recording Notebook
- Snacks
- Disposable Camera with HIPAA Disclaimer (select trauma centers)
- Encouraging letters from others who have been there
- A list of Brain Injury Support Groups by area
- Playing cards (to help pass the time)
Information, Resources, and Tip Cards/Booklets
These particular items were chosen because of their easy to understand content, detailed diagrams, and value to the family in order for them to educate themselves in private and at their own pace. These non clinical booklets will help family members become better advocates for their loved one as they move forward through recovery. Many contain additional resources throughout the state.
- 1-800-TBI-HOPE Brochure
- My Child Has a Brain Injury , What Do I Do Now?
- Brain Injury Association of America Changes/Challenges/Choices Brochure
- Understanding Brain Injury - Acute Hospitalization
- Understanding Brain Injury - Neurologic Rehabilitation-An Education Guide
- Lash Publishing Tip Cards - Understanding Coma, and Families as Managers of Care
- Brain Injury Association of America State Affiliate Offices & Websites
- Caring Bridge Brochure on how to create a private and personalized website for easier communication with family and friends during a healthcare crisis.
- Florida Dept. of Health, Brain & Spinal Cord Injury Program
