BrainTrust Canada: A Real Conversation on Brain Injury, Addiction, and System Failures in BC
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=558Z6C7hmbE&t=59s In this important and eye-opening conversation, MLA Kristina Loewen sits down with Amanda from Brain Trust Canada to discuss a crisis that is largely invisible — the impact of brain injury on addiction, homelessness, and the justice system. Drawing from nearly two decades of frontline experience, Amanda shares how brain injuries are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or completely overlooked — leaving some of our most vulnerable people without the care and support they need. Together, they explore: Why brain injury is often mistaken for addiction or “non-compliance” The strong link between brain injury, substance use, and homelessness How current systems are failing to support complex cases The growing crisis among youth, seniors, and those experiencing intimate partner violence The urgent need for long-term, specialized care and better coordination between health, housing, and justice systems. This conversation sheds light on the human stories behind the statistics — and why awareness, compassion, and meaningful change are needed now more than ever. If more people understood the realities discussed here, the response would be very different. Watch, share, and help bring awareness to an issue that impacts thousands across British Columbia and beyond. About Brain Trust Canada: Brain Trust Canada has been supporting
I Am Deeply Disturbed by the Amount of Floor Crossings in 2025
When politicians change parties, voters lose their voice Floor crossing is a breach of trust, a betrayal. When you cast a ballot in British Columbia, you are not voting for convenience, ambition, or political maneuvering. You are voting for values. You are voting for your future. You are lending your voice, your trust, and your consent to a candidate who stood before you and said, “this is what I believe, this is how I will govern, and this is the banner under which I will serve you.” Your vote is your tool to speak. It’s your tool to influence governance and change. It’s one of the most valuable and sacred tools you are given in a democracy. That is why floor crossing troubles me. This is why I am deeply disturbed by the number of floor crossings in 2025 alone in BC and in Canada – and many, very shortly after an election. In my opinion, politicians are treating this far too lightly. Crossing the floor is often defended as an act of conscience. We are told it reflects personal growth, new information, or a desire to “better serve constituents.” But that framing ignores a central truth: voters did not
Kelowna Can be a Beacon for Change on Crime, Safety, and Compassion
Kelowna is one of the most desirable places in Canada to live, work and vacation. People are drawn here for the natural beauty, our sense of community, and the quality of life that our city offers. It’s an incredible place to build a business and to raise a family. No wonder Kelowna represents positive childhood and vacation memories for so many. But there is another truth at play here, one that is not as beautiful and positive – our city is struggling. If we have the courage to address the issues honestly and to act, then I believe that we can become a beacon of change for the whole province. When it comes to crime, safety, addiction, mental health and homelessness, every city in British Columbia is grappling with similar issues – rising crime and increasing human suffering. Moving the problem around the city or from one community to another is not a solution. I believe that Kelowna can lead the province in demanding life-giving policies and legislative change. As your MLA, I’ve heard countless stories with a consistent theme: It has never been so easy to be a criminal and so demoralizing to be a law-abiding, tax-paying citizen. Small business owners are suffocating under the strain of stolen merchandise, broken windows, graffiti, and the daily
