Leslie Punt's Cognitive Training

Twenty-seven years ago our sister, mother and friend was diagnosed at the age of 32 with a rare brain tumour, a craniopharyngioma , a benign but debilitating pituitary tumour that has left her with some challenging cognitive dysfunctions.  She has undergone five invasive, damaging brain surgeries that have left her with short-term memory loss, an inability to manage her daily affairs without assistance, and the frustrating loss of her independence.


(Leslie at 20 years old)

In early August this year, Leslie came across a small pamphlet tacked to a bulletin board describing the Watson Centre for Brain Health .  This centre, located in Burnaby, B.C., deals exclusively with recovery from brain injury.  With some help from the staff where she lives, Leslie made an appointment and, after a day of intensive interviews and tests that left her exhausted, the Watson Centre sent her a letter of acceptance into their program.  They strongly believe they can help her regain some of her cognitive functioning!

The following has been provided by Josh Poirier, Executive Director of the Watson Centre:

"The Watson Centre Society for Brain Health is a non-profit, interdisciplinary program that focuses on improving functional connectivity in the brain by helping drive neuroplastic change associated with improved cognition and executive functioning.  At two afternoons per week, the part-time program is a good fit for Leslie, as it would allow her to participate at a level that will allow her to engage and see benefit without being overbearing on her energy levels. The part-time program involves cardio exercise, mindfulness meditation and cognitive capacity building in a system that tracks progress and works towards individualized and realistic goals." 

(Please watch Josh Poirier's presentation last year to the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada here .)

The recommended program will be a minimum of six months and her progress will be reassessed every three months.  The fee is $1660 per month.  Counselling will also be available to her for an additional $200 per month. 

All money raised will be put towards Leslie's fee at the Watson Centre for Brain Health.  If she is fortunate enough to obtain more than her goal amount, the donations will be put towards further programming for her enrichment.

This program will be difficult and tiring for Leslie, but she is very committed and so grateful that an opportunity has presented itself.   

Please help Leslie get the training she needs to live a more fulfilling life and to finally have a chance to thrive!

(Leslie and her daughter, Lauren)