ABI hub provides more than just therapy

The community hub for people with acquired brain injury (ABI) in Tierquin, Cavan, has proven to be a vital lifeline for people living with the often life-altering condition. Last week, staff, patients, and supporters celebrated its success and thanked donors and fundraisers who have helped it grow into a thriving centre of rehabilitation and connection.

The hub itself was established in 2021 in the wake of the COVID pandemic as part of the crucial ABI community rehabilitation service for Cavan and Monaghan. It provides one-to-one rehabilitation, case services, psychological support and family support after the life-changing event of a brain injury.

Clinical psychologist Conall Tunney, who works with the Cavan-Monaghan ABI unit, says the hub plays a transformative role in the recovery. He currently supports about 40 active patients, aged 18 to 65 years, each living with different levels of severity following brain injury.

“Loss is the defining feature,” he explained. “Whether it’s independence, mobility, or a role in family and work life, that sudden change can be devastating. Our job is to help people rebuild their lives, set goals, and find a new path forward.” Patients at the unit undergo an initial assessment in hospital or at home before moving into a programme of intensive community rehabilitation. These programmes are delivered in 12-week blocks, with goals reviewed and adapted as progress is made. Goals can be as practical as returning to work, learning to drive again, or simply managing daily chores. Over time, rehabilitation aims to restore a sustainable quality of life and independence.

Mr Tunney stresses that acquired brain injuries are not confined to older adults. While strokes are common among older patients, accidents, aneurysms, and bleeds mean that many younger people also rely on the service. “We often see people much younger than you’d expect. It’s a huge shock to their lives, and the impact on mental health and social well-being can be enormous,” he said.

The Community Hub was born out of necessity during the pandemic. According to Local Services Manager Orla McBennett, many patients’ mental health and cognitive abilities suffered significantly during lockdowns.

“People with ABI need routine and interaction,” she said. “Isolation can cause them to deteriorate quickly. That’s why we began a small peer-to-peer support group in 2021, meeting every Friday for tea.” From those modest beginnings, the hub has grown into a recognised programme eligible for grant funding, allowing for structured activities such as gardening, woodworking, cooking, DIY, and art. These not only help with physical and cognitive rehabilitation but also provide opportunities to socialise, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with others.

Phyllis O’Reilly is grateful to know her son Brian who fell ill in 2018 is in good hands: “The guidance, care, and encouragement he receives have made such a difference in his confidence to achieve his aim to live independently. As his mother, it has also been a huge help and comfort to me, knowing he has this support.” Much of the hub’s development has been made possible by donors and fundraising. Contributions have provided a polytunnel, timber for raised planters and woodworking projects, and even a roofed area for wheelchair users. Support has also come from Cavan and Monaghan County Councils and CMETB, while Orla and her small team are funded by the HSE. This week’s celebration is both a show of gratitude and a recognition of progress. “This hub is about more than therapy,” Orla said. “It’s about rebuilding lives and reclaiming what is lost.”