On September 12, 2019, Renée Nordstrand, partner at NordstrandBlack PC, and her fellow board members of the Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation hosted a charity gala meant to inspire and empower people with disabilities.
“Waves of Empowerment” was held at the Lobero Theatre, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The featured speaker was Jesse Billauer, an ISA World Champion with gold, silver, and bronze medals. He refused to let an accident in 1996 that turned him into a quadriplegic slow him down, and with a dream and the drive, he became a world-champion adaptive surfer.
“I obviously don’t celebrate that life-changing moment; I DO celebrate every day, month and year after it,” stated Billauer.
His talk amazed the audience and changed many people’s outlook on what is and isn’t possible with a physical handicap. CHR was glad to be a part of Jesse’s journey. Their therapeutic recreation programs motivate and support people with disabilities, helping them to do amazing things.
The event overall was a great success, and we hope for many more like it!
About Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital
Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital is devoted to people with brain and spinal cord injuries, stroke-related complications, musculoskeletal disorders, and other neurological and orthopedic conditions. The facility provides comprehensive, compassionate medical rehabilitation for both inpatient and outpatient procedures, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Their goal is to empower people with disabilities to achieve an optimum quality of life.
For over 60 years, Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital has provided services for Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo. Want to help in our mission? Please:
- Support the Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation.
- Lean more about CRH’s programs.
Ms. Nordstrand is the current secretary for Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital. She and her fellow board-members are looking forward to next year’s event.