THE MILITARY FAMILY: Healing, an art form for traumatic brain injury

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - For active duty service members and veterans with traumatic brain injuries, there's an overwhelming tendency to self-isolate; the unseen injuries dominate their way of relating, and coping, with their new reality. 

And that's exactly why Operation TBI Freedom, based in Colorado Springs, a program of Craig Hospital -- wants those injured to be seen, and to engage in new activities.

"Learning a new activity or hobby stimulates neuroplasticity," said Steven Smith, the Military Programs Coordinator for Craig Hospital and Operation TBI Freedom.  "What we want to do is provide a safe place for veterans, service members, and their families to engage in activities.  In doing so, we're able to normalize consequences of traumatic brain injury, and participants feel validated."

For veteran Jason Tubbs, the hands-on experience has not only created new memories with his children but helped exponentially in his recovery.

"I get to get out there and meet people, and a lot of the time, I get to do it with my children," said Tubbs, who was a field artillery soldier in the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, and eventually stationed at Ft. Carson.  "I realized, 'Okay, I can't do this on my own.' And with OTF, it's veterans taking care of veterans."

Tubbs suffered repeated blast exposure, leaving him with lasting brain and nerve damage; he also had to have two fingers amputated after a life-altering injury on a Howitzer tank.

"I put my hand on the ledge and the door broke.  The door came and smashed my fingers off. The only thing I could think about when it happened was my career is over; the only job and passion that I had was now gone," Tubbs remembered.

After trying psychiatrists, therapists, and medication, he discovered Operation TBI Freedom.

The organization guides veterans through recovery, reintegration, traumatic brain injury education, support groups, and crisis management.  Since its inception in 2008, it has serviced 1300 veterans, active duty service members, and family members.  Colorado residents who have traumatic brain injuries received from service, and who have served since 9-11 are eligible.  All support offered through Operation TBI Freedom is free, thanks to generous donors.