ABI, if you haven't heard of the group, their full name is Acquired Brain Injury Association. The New Beginnings chapter in our area is receiving support from Paynton entrepreneurs Doris Frost with partner in life and now business Dave Florizone.
The Purple Palace coffee shop and thrift store is more than it appears, Dave and Doris are affected personally by brain injury after a motorcycle accident in 2007. Doris got away with no head injuries but Dave sustained damage that has affected his daily life.
New Beginnings is a self-sustaining group where the members support and encourage each other to not only be survivors but to live. Hobbies, classes, sharing stories and issues are some of the ways the group helps each other through the day-to-day challenges of brain injury.
ABI provides courses to re-educate members in Winnipeg, Man. but are not teaching in Saskatchewan yet, Doris hopes to see that happen one day. ABI also hosts retreats where members can take in seminars and conferences paid for by ABI. Fun themes like Hawaiian Holiday complete with grass skirts keep the mood light and guests comfortable.
This group isn't for everyone and some patients need more professional help before being able to be part of a group like this. Doris and Dave donate all of the proceeds from their thrift store to the cause and are happy to take any donations made to support the well-being of the group's members.
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