Centre for Neuro Skills was created out of compassion and necessity. In 1972, a devastating brain injury left 21-year-old Steve Ashley completely disabled. Conventional medicine and available long-term care gave Steve no hope for regaining independence.
Steve was the first CNS patient and the brother of Dr. Mark Ashley, CNS founder and CEO. Steve’s journey became the model for CNS’ philosophy and practice. Our core belief is that people recovering from brain injuries should be treated with respect and dignity. Not every patient will regain the same level of function, but CNS is the place where individuals are rehabilitated to their fullest potential and given back a measure of control over their world.
Steve’s life post rehabilitation speaks to the power of Dr. Ashley’s vision. He found a new life. His ability to speak, operate a wheelchair, and live independently was restored. He even got married. At CNS, every patient is a Steve Ashley. Our bias for action is to return patients to the highest level of independence possible.
Given the right therapy at the right time by experienced professionals, we believe that most survivors of brain injury can do more. This is what Steve Ashley taught us.