Olympic Fever

The spirit of the Olympics brought together clients and staff from Special Tree's Day Treatment Services, Residential, and NeuroCare Center for an afternoon of games and fun at Special Tree’s Olympic Carnival on August 10^th.    The NCC South parking lot was a swirl of colorful flags and creative team uniforms as clients competed for medals and prizes for their country’s team.  Congratulations to Moravian West, a.k.a. Team Canada, who brought home the Gold;  Tyler’s 1 & 2 won the Silver for Team China; and the Bronze went to Trevino who represented France.  Many thanks to Angie Folkwein, Residential Best Practices Coordinator, and Neal Dregansky, DTS Manager, for organizing the event. 



A shot of the coveted Special Tree Olympic Medals

A Great Musical Experience

By: Kari Webster
NeuroCare Center Activity Aide

The Village Theater at Cherry Hill in Canton provided comfort and hospitality for the showing of “The Grease Musical” put on by Forever Productions, which consisted of a 35 member chorus composed of very talented youths from Plymouth, Canton and surrounding communities. They gave an outstanding performance and took us back to Rydell High, Danny Zuko and Sandy, along with the groovy T-Birds and the Pink Ladies! The cast gave a wonderful performance and the stage props and the clothing they were over the top and were above and beyond mine and Coleen's expectations. Such a talented group of young adults shined on the stage and outdid themselves!

This was certainly an unforgettable outing. A short ride down the rode, stepping into a quaint but elegant theater to slip away from the day to day activities at NCC to a memorable step back into the late 50's and just a few days prior to Coleen's birthday, I saw this as a special way for her to celebrate. Sure the play was great as I mentioned but even better was Coleen's reaction to it all. It was simply awesome to see her enjoy herself, to see her smile throughout the play, see her point out some of the cast and their skits, and to have her be so appreciative and thankful as we left the theater. Sure, the play was good, but her enjoyment of the time spent there was what was awesome. I am so glad she enjoyed her outing and pre-birthday celebration. 

Back on the WJLB Airwaves

Kevin with Dr. Derius & Big Dog Blast

When Kevin walks into a room everyone notices. His smooth voice and warm asking, ‘What’ss up?’ let’s everyone know he’s there.

As an on-air personality for Detroit’s WJLB FM 98, he won many metro-Detroiters over with his electrifying presence. Following a life-altering accident Kevin came to Special Tree Rehab where, no surprise, he’s doing the same.

Kevin arrived at Special Tree’s Chesley house in mid November. In just a short time he’s brought new life into the house and has made tremendous progress in his rehabilitation. Chesley  Residential Manager Kim Townsend calls Kevin “the model client.” And explains that he’s always up and ready for therapy, works hard while there, and never misses a session. She believes Kevin understands that he must work hard in order to reach his long-term goals.



Kevin & RST Haleem



Like many clients, Kevin’s long term goal is to return to work and to be at home with his family. And because of his good work, he’s well on his way. Recently, he made a guest appearance on his former time slot on WJLB.  Kevin shared insights on brain injury with his listeners and colleagues, bringing new light to his former show. Metro Detroit responded so positively that the station is welcoming him back this coming weekend. As for his goal of returning home to continue his active role as husband and father, Kevin has even more encouragement. He and his wife recently welcomed a new baby girl into the world. Kevin’s path to recovery continues until he can return to his two passions in life: radio and his family.