How does Shepherd Center support veteran care, break down barriers, and encourage veterans to seek treatment?

In episode 448, host Zack Knight sits down with Jackie Breitenstein, the head of the SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center in Atlanta. Jackie shares how Sheperd Center is working with veterans suffering from brain injuries and other hidden wounds of war. She shares the unique challenges veterans face when seeking care and how Shepherd Center and the SHARE program are working to break down those barriers. Jackie also highlights the importance of involving family members in the healing process and the long-term support SHARE provides to ensure veterans can successfully transition back to their communities.

[00:00 - 06:01] From Boxing Ring to Brain Injury Rehab: Jackie's Journey

• Jackie's past as a professional boxer with an 8-2 record and six knockouts
• How her boxing experience led her to work with brain injury patients at Shepherd Center
• Shepherd Center's world-renowned reputation in treating brain and spinal cord injuries

[06:02 - 12:25] SHARE Military Initiative: Comprehensive Care for Veterans

• SHARE program treats post-9/11 veterans and first responders
• Care provided at no out-of-pocket expense, including travel, housing, and specialist teams
• Zack's personal connection to Shepherd Center through his own experiences

[12:26 - 30:52] Breaking Barriers: Reaching to Veterans

• Challenges of marketing to veterans who don't want to be labeled as "damaged goods"
• SHARE's reliance on word-of-mouth referrals and building trust with veterans
• Importance of finding a new mission and purpose for veterans as they heal and transition

[30:53- 39:29] Link Between Brain Injuries and Veteran Suicide

• Statistics reveal the prevalence of brain injuries among veterans and increased suicide risk
• Addressing root causes of veteran suicide, including misdiagnosed and undertreated brain injuries
• Misconceptions surrounding ongoing conflicts and lack of public awareness about veteran challenges

[39:30 - 45:10] Healing Families, Restoring Connections: SHARE's Holistic Approach

• Involving family members in treatment, educating them on supporting their veteran loved one
• Powerful story of a veteran reconnecting with his daughters during treatment
• Importance of respite care for veteran caregivers supporting loved ones for years

Key Quotes:

"If all we do is talk to the veteran and we don't include their circle of support, we're not setting that veteran up or that family up for success." - Jackie Breitenstein

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