(709) 221-1288 info@nlbia.ca
Nyle Jane Sheppard

Nyle Jane Sheppard

Ambassador

Nyle lives in Corner Brook, NL. A previous life/work healthcare worker, Nyle still suffers to this day.  “I realize now that it was deconditioning. As I was lying in bed trying to heal my brain, understanding my core, arms and legs weakened.  I would exercise them, but I guess it wasn’t enough. I had to rely on a cane.  My arms/legs would ache daily.  My equilibrium was affected, eyes, ears, (vestibular, deciptal, motor sensory, memory, VMS)”.  Nyle has major support from medical doctors, family and genuine friends who have been there and guided her, challenged her, and pushed/nudged Nyle to get where she is today and for that is grateful.  “I foresee a fork in the road, not sure which one I will take but I’m up for any challenge straight ahead.  If you can be anything, be kind.  You never know what someone is battling.  Perception is hindsight.”

Sheldon Crocker

Sheldon Crocker

Ambassador

Sheldon lives in St. John’s, NL.  Sheldon is no newbie to living with a disability and during the pandemic has used this time to write his own book, which has now been published, Keep on Walking- Journey FROM Disability TO dis-Ability. Sheldon’s story looks at overcoming many challenges faced in life and coping with arthrogryposis. Arthrogryposis affects both the arms and legs and often causes underdeveloped hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, feet and knees to varying degrees. Sheldon is an avid volunteer and public speaker.  He’s been involved with Stella’s Circle programs, Positive Thinkers Club Director of Public Relations, Ambassador, Spokesperson with AccessibleNL, a MerB’y for 2020 with the Newfoundland & Labrador Beard & Moustache Club. “I believe that the NL Brain Injury Association is a very valuable and necessary association to have because there are plenty of people in society who have brain injuries and could avail of the services offered and it’s great to know that there are people who understand and can be of help.” 

Patsy Corcoran

Patsy Corcoran

Ambassador

Patsy lives in St. John’s, NL. Born and raised in Riverhead, St. Mary’s Bay, Patsy looked forward to moving out and exploring other places. After finishing high school she moved to Toronto. I found the job I loved doing payroll and accounting at the head office of Sam the Record Man and then on to G4S Cash Services Corporate office where I spent 10 years managing their payroll department. September 19, 2009 Patsy awoke with the worst headache of her life and was rushed to the Health Science Centre. A brain aneurysm had ruptured! “I guess I am one of the lucky ones. I survived. The years since that time have been difficult but get easier with each passing year. I am what is considered high functioning. I have no physical attributes to my condition.” All of Patsy’s issues or deficits are unseen which can make it harder for others to understand. No longer able to work, she still seeks purpose in life. “One of the main reasons I have joined the NLBIA is to raise awareness and help others find their way through brain injury.” 

Terri Badger-Lane

Terri Badger-Lane

Ambassador

Terri lives in central NL with her husband, 2 sons and soon to be daughter (waiting on finalizing adoption). Her family wouldn’t be complete without her service dog Bailey and 2 other furry friends. 

Originally from Toronto, Ontario Terri’s career for years was in education as an ECE/Educational Assistant/Supply Teacher/School Bus Driver.  In 2008 the family moved ”back home” to be closer to her husband’s family. Terri continued her career in Home Care and as a Student Assistant. The family also became foster parents. 

In 2013 Terri sustained multiple concussions over a 5wk period. Resulting in 20+ blows to the head. Her life and that of her family’s has forever changed. ”It’s a good thing I like roller coasters because this has been one wild ride.” Terri’s husband and kids took over everything to help with recovery. 7.5 yrs later she has mourned who she was and is working on loving and accepting this new ‘Terri ‘ and all the quirks that come with it. Thankfully she still has her sense of humour and positive outlook on life. Having Bailey by her side has given Terri back her much needed independence and zest for life.