Brewer - A government council is hearing directly from those who it's designed to help out. Folks like Patrick Skidgel, who has survived three brain tumors, and William Parker, whose wife suffered a major stroke two years ago.

The Acquired Brain Injury Advisory Council held a public hearing at the Maine Center for Integrated Rehab in Brewer on Tuesday. The council is required to hold these types of hearings at least twice a year.

"They're really looking for ideas and suggestions and feedback on how things could be better for folks with brain injuries and their families," said Gary Wolcott, Associate Director of the Office of Aging and Disability Services.

Mainers who've suffered from these injuries say government funded services have been a huge help to them and they don't want to see them cut from the budget.

"Every time they go to do the budgets, they cut Maine head trauma stuff and it's like, that's the last thing they need to be cutting. We need to increase that again so we can have these services available for people," said Skidgel.

They say since there are services available, make sure the folks who need them, know how to get them.

"It's easy to get it, but a lot of people don't know where to go or where to look," said Parker.

Because the services this council can help advocate for really do make a difference.

Skidgel said, "Because of the day treatment program, I am a productive and worthwhile citizen. I am able to do things because of it."

While their brain injuries changed their lives, rehab programs and other services can too, this time for the better.

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