Lee Health’s Gulf Coast Medical Center (271)

 

Lee Health’s Gulf Coast Medical Center offers comprehensive trauma care to the communities of Southwest Florida. Lee Health’s comprehensive trauma services provide 24/7 critical care services from trauma-trained professionals. Once patients are stabilized; outreach services provide additional support and improve outcomes for trauma patients and their caregivers. Patient and caregiver support provided by Trauma Services fosters emotional health and wellness. These services include individual counseling, various support groups, peer mentors and ambassadors. Lee Health’s Trauma Center also provides resources to the community through Injury Prevention and Education. Programs include Falls Prevention (Step Smart), High Risk Driver, Sports Injury Prevention and Stop the Bleed. Lee Health’s wrap around services provide exceptional care to the community from injury prevention to recovery.

TSN Coordinator

Erika Taylor, MSW 

[email protected]

Address 
13685 Doctor’s Way Fort Myers, Suite 140
Fort Myers, Florida, 33912

‘I saw God twice:’ Boating accident survivor thanks Lee Health

 

Post Discharge Clinical Services 

Trauma Support Services provides access to resources, support, and programs that are specifically designed to assist patients and families as they navigate their recovery.

Peer Mentors

Mentors have the unique ability to understand what another survivor may have been through. They provide encouragement, guidance, and sometimes advice to other survivors. 

What’s Next Workshop

Join us for a workshop designed to support both individuals and their caregivers who have experienced trauma. This event aims to facilitate discussions on trauma-related support services and explore various community resources available to help you on your journey.  Workshop dates here

Next Steps Online

The NextSteps program is a free, 6-week self-management course that emphasizes the vital role you play in your own recovery. Grounded in the principles of self-management, the program incorporates proven techniques to boost your confidence and sense of empowerment. NextSteps equips you with the skills needed to take an active role in managing both your health and your life. Learn more here.


 Support Groups 

Brain Injury Recovery Warriors of SWFL

Join us for a supportive gathering designed for young adults navigating life after a brain injury. We understand the challenges and changes that come with recovery, and our group offers comfort, understanding, and community.

When: Second Wednesday of the month
Where: Hybrid format (in-person and virtual options available)

This is a safe space to share experiences and connect with others in similar situations as you navigate recovery and young adulthood in SWFL. 

Please register here.

TBI Survivors Empowerment Group

Join us for a virtual gathering on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Connect with others who understand your journey and find support in a compassionate environment.

When: Second Tuesday of the month
Where: Online via WebEx. (Please email the TSN coordinator for more information)

Whether you’re seeking understanding or simply a space to share, you are not alone. We look forward to welcoming you. 

Please registerhere.

 

Trauma Survivors

Join us for a comforting and understanding space for those navigating life after a traumatic injury. We recognize that adjusting can be challenging, and our group offers a safe environment to share your experiences and find fellowship with others.

When: Fourth Wednesday of the month
Where: Virtual meeting via WebEx. (Please email the TSN coordinator for more information)

Come connect with others who understand your journey. We look forward to supporting you!

Please register here. 

Caregivers Support

Join us for a supportive virtual space specifically for caregivers of individuals who have experienced a traumatic accident. Share your experiences, find comfort, and connect with others who understand the unique challenges you face.

When: Third Wednesday of the month
Where: Virtual meeting via WebEx 

We look forward to fostering a community of understanding and support. For more information, please email TSN coordinator. 

Please register here.

HEAL Empowerment Group for Survivors of Violence

Join our hybrid support group to connect with fellow survivors. Share your experiences, discuss the impact of violence, learn trauma processing techniques, explore healthy coping strategies, and work towards healing together.

When: Second Tuesday of the month
Where: Hybrid format (in-person and virtual options available)

We look forward to supporting you on your journey to healing. For more information, please email the TSN coordinator. 

Please register here.

TSN National Support Group

Join our free monthly online support group for survivors of physical injuries co-led by TSN trauma professionals and peers the 2nd and 4th Wednesday. This month’s topic is Haunted by the Past: Finding Strength Beyond Trauma.” Join us Wednesday, October 9th from 3:30 PM-5:00 PM ET or Wednesday, October 23rd from 5:30 PM-7:00 PM ET. *registration closes October 23rd.  

Please register here.

Healthy Life Center's Monthly Grief Support Group

Join us for a supportive hour dedicated to those navigating grief. This monthly gathering provides a compassionate space for sharing, listening, and healing together.

Please register here. 

View schedule here. 

 


Outdoor Chair Yoga Tuesday, December 17th, 2024

This is a gentle chair yoga class out in the fresh air. Emphasis will be on mindful movement with the breath. Feel invigorated, calm, and focused. Suitable for all levels. Please call 239.468.0050 for more information. 

Outdoor Movement, Meditation & Breathwork Friday, December 18th, 2024

Bring yourself back to balance. This class may reduce inflammation, increase immune function, decrease pain, lower cortisol levels, decrease ruminative thinking and anxiety and increase happiness. Chair Optional. Please register here.

Make and Take Festive Fragrances: Create Your Own Holiday Sugar Scrubs Wednesday, December 18th, 2024

Please call 239.468.0050 for more information. 

Outdoor Strength Balance and Stretch Friday, December 20th, 2024

This class includes chair exercises to strengthen the body, improve alignment, and expand mobility. Balance work, stretching, and relaxation are all part of this amazing class. Please register here

Make and Take Festive Fragrances: Create Your Own Holiday Sugar Scrubs  Friday, December 20th, 2024

Please call 239.468.0050 for more information. 

Cooking with Kat: Greek Cuisine Friday, December 20th, 2024 

Join us for a Greek cuisine cooking demo! Learn to make classic Mediterranean dishes like Greek meatballs, tzatziki, and Greek salad, while discovering the secrets of healthy, flavorful cooking. Perfect for all skill levels! Please call 239.468.0050 for more information.

Outdoor Chair Yoga Tuesday, December 24th, 2024

This is a gentle chair yoga class out in the fresh air. Emphasis will be on mindful movement with the breath. Feel invigorated, calm, and focused. Suitable for all levels. Please call 239.468.0050 for more information. 

Outdoor Strength Balance and Stretch Friday, December 27th, 2024

This class includes chair exercises to strengthen the body, improve alignment, and expand mobility. Balance work, stretching, and relaxation are all part of this amazing class. Please register here

Cooking Demo: Winter Mocktails Friday, December 27th, 2024

Join Kat for a lively and invigorating winter mocktails class, where you’ll discover how to make non-alcoholic drinks ideal for cozying up on cold days. Please call 239.468.0050 for more information. 

 


Community Events 


Caring for Caregivers Thursday, November 14th, 2024

Welcome to the second annual Caregiver’s Event! Come join us on celebrating you and the incredible work you do. This day is all about taking a moment for yourself, connecting with others, and enjoying some well-deserved recognition. Let’s make some wonderful memories together! Please register here. 

Mobility and Resource Event Monday, November 18th, 2024 9:30-3pm

Hosted by the Center for Independent Living Gulf Coast.

Where: 7011 Cypress Terrace, Suite 103, Fort Myers FL 33907

Please call (239) 260-4575 if you have any questions.

 


National Trauma Awareness Month 2024 


Touch a Truck 

The community came together for meaningful conversations with Trauma Center providers and staff, alongside Law Enforcement, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and the Fire Department. A special highlight was the support from “Team First Responders,” who showcased their NASCAR, Offshore Racing Speedboat, and Truck, demonstrating their commitment to Lee Health and coalition partners. And to top it all off, Batman made a surprise appearance! Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to this impactful event! 

Coffee Talk with a Trauma Doc 

To mark the 30th anniversary and in recognition of Trauma Awareness Month in May, Lee Health hosted a community event, bringing people together with Gulf Coast Trauma Surgeons for an open discussion over coffee.

Dedication for Trauma Survivors, Families, Mentors and Ambassadors 

Gulf Coast Medical Center created a tranquil space dedicated to individuals impacted by trauma, as well as those who tirelessly provide care and support. The space features a beautiful hummingbird tree and a commemorative bench. Lee Health’s Spiritual Services Department held a blessing ceremony, with staff, volunteers, and survivors in attendance.

 


Community Resources


Center for Independent Living

https://www.cilgulfcoastflorida.org/ The Center strives to enhance the lives of people with disabilities, regardless of age, in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Henry counties.

United Way

https://unitedwaylee.org/need-help/ United Way 211 is a free 24-hour non-emergency line that helps people navigate their way through human and social service agencies in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties.

Disability Rights Florida

https://disabilityrightsflorida.org/ Disability Rights Florida is a nonprofit organization that provides legal advocacy and rights protection for adults and children with a wide range of disabilities.

Social Security Administration

https://www.ssa.gov/

Social Security Disability Resource Center

https://www.ssdrc.com/

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

https://resources.hud.gov/ Housing Support

Community Care for the Elderly (CCE) Program

https://elderaffairs.org/programs-services/caregiving/community-care-for-the-elderly-cce-program/ Elder Helpline at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337)

Senior Friendship Center

https://friendshipcenters.org/ Agency focused on health, wellness, social engagement, caregiving and support in aging.

Adaptive Sports Offered in Lee County

https://www.leegov.com/parks/programs/special-needs/adaptive-sports

Brooks Rehab

https://brooksrehab.org/  

Shepard Center 

https://www.shepherd.org/ Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Shepherd Center is a private, not-for-profit hospital specializing in medical treatment, research and rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, spine and chronic pain, and other neuromuscular conditions.

Clinics Can Help 

clinicscanhelp.org Located in Palm Beach, Florida; Clinics Can Help connects people to safe, low-cost medical equipment in a supportive circle of care. Our model of organized recycling advances health equity by ensuring every child and adult can access the supplies they need for healthy recovery, protection from injury, and the mobility, independence and dignity to sustain a quality level of life.


Brain Injury Support


Brain Injury Resource Guide

https://www.floridahealth.gov/provider-and-partner-resources/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-program/resource-center/_documents/BI-Resource-Guide.pdf

BrainLine

https://www.brainline.org/ All about brain injury and PTSD

Brain Injury Florida

https://www.braininjuryfl.org/ Brain Injury Florida’s purpose is to improve the quality of life for residents of the state of Florida who have sustained an acquired brain injury by promoting effective awareness, education, outreach, treatment, prevention, advocacy, and support.

Brain Injury Bible Study

https://hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study/ Brain Injury Bible Study is a free online group led by Cristabelle Braden for faith-based connection in the brain injury community. We currently meet one Saturday a month on zoom.

Hope After Head Injury

https://hopeafterheadinjury.com/ Online community for survivors, caregivers, and family members.


Amputee Support


Amputee Resource Directory

https://livingwithamplitude.com/amputee-community-resource-directory/ Our amputee resource directory lists hundreds of organizations that offer various types of resources for amputees. This searchable, user-friendly database includes contact information, website links, and descriptions to help you easily find resources for amputees. Whether you’re a new amputee or have been living with limb loss for years, our amputee resource directory can help you find support for prosthetic care, social connection, healthcare, amputee rehab, kids’ programming, and more.

Amputee Coalition

https://www.amputee-coalition.org/

Amputee Coalition Virtual Support Groups

https://www.amputee-coalition.org/support-groups-peer-support/virtual-support-group-meetings/ Registration is required in advance of attending one of these recurring virtual meetings. All four recurring virtual support group meetings will follow a similar agenda, so please register for the time zone that best suits your life and availability. If you have any questions, please email [email protected] or call 888-267-5669 ext. 8124.

Amputation Foundation

https://amputationfoundation.org/ Our mission is simple: to enhance the lives of amputees by offering comprehensive support, practical resources, and opportunities for personal growth and community connection. Whether you’re an amputee, a caregiver, or a medical professional, we’re here to help.

Hanger Clinic AMPOWER

https://hangerclinic.com/patients/emotional-support/ Beyond clinical care, we connect people to one another through AMPOWER®, a peer-to-peer support program for people with limb loss or limb difference.


 Spinal Cord Injury Support


Spinal Cord Resource Guide

https://www.floridahealth.gov/provider-and-partner-resources/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-program/resource-center/_documents/SCI-Rescourse-Guide.pdf

Understanding Spinal Cord Injury

https://www.spinalinjury101.org/

Paralyzed Veterans of America Florida Chapter

https://www.pvaflorida.org/

North American Spinal Cord Injury Consortium 

https://nascic.org/membership/ NASCIC is a free membership to help those suffering from an SCI stay up to date on new products, clinical trials, and advocacy for change. 


Caregiver Support


Family Caregiver Alliance

https://www.caregiver.org/ Services, education programs, and resources designed with caregivers’ needs in mind and offer support, tailored information, and tools to manage the complex demands of caregiving.

VA Caregiver Support Program

https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/New_CSC_Page.asp The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered Veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. The program’s mission is to promote the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for our Nation’s Veterans, through education, resources, support, and services.

Caregiver Action Network

https://www.caregiveraction.org/ A non-profit organization providing education, peer support, and resources to family caregivers across the country free of charge.


Support for Individuals Affected by Violence  


Victim Connect Resource Center

https://victimconnect.org/ NCVC has operated two hotlines, VictimConnect Resource Center and DC Victim Hotline, since 2015. Both programs provide phone, chat, and text-based services to all victims of crime. Visitors to the hotlines can receive strength-based and trauma-informed services and referrals in over 200 languages. NCVC’s Victim Assistance Specialists receive extensive training and mentoring to provide emotional support, information, and referrals that empower visitors as they navigate the physical, emotional, legal, and financial consequences of crime. Call or Text 1-855-484-2846

Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Inc.

https://actabuse.com/ Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Inc. (ACT) is a private, not-for-profit agency committed to serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. 24 Hour Helpline: (239) 939-3112

Office for Victims of Crime

https://ovc.ojp.gov/help-for-victims/overview#overview

The Florida Attorney General’s Division of Victim Services

https://www.myfloridalegal.com/crime-victims-services/crime-victims-services Victims wishing to apply for assistance, check on the status of their applications, or in need of any other assistance can contact the division toll free from anywhere in the United States. The toll-free number is 1-800-226-6667.


Mental Health Support


Lee County Mental Health Resource Guide

https://lee.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/wellness-programs/mental-health-first-aid/_documents/LeeCountyMentalHealthResourceGuideVersionJan2023.pdf

Park Royal Behavioral Health Services

https://www.parkroyalhospital.com/ Park Royal offers a full continuum of care for individuals 18+ who are struggling with mental health & substance abuse issues.

Lee Behavioral Health Services

https://www.leehealth.org/our-services/behavioral-health?utm_source=local-listing&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=website-link People who need behavioral health services represent every group you can imagine — family and friends, colleagues and co-workers, neighbors and children. Leading with compassion, our mental health experts help you identify the cause of anxiety, depression, or mood disorders while providing open-minded treatment that controls symptoms and improves your quality of life.

NAMI

https://namilee.org/ NAMI of Lee, Charlotte and Hendry Counties is an organization of families, friends and individuals whose lives have been affected by mental illness. Together, we advocate for better lives for those individuals who have a mental illness.

The Center for Progress and Excellence Inc.

https://progressandexcellence.com/ The Mobile Crisis Hotline is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – (844) 395-4432 CPE offers mental health services regardless of insurance status.

988 Lifeline Chat and Text

https://988lifeline.org/chat/ 988 Lifeline Chat and Text connects you with caring crisis counselors for emotional support.

Crisis Text Line

https://www.crisistextline.org/ Free 24/7 crisis support.

Veterans Crisis Line

https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/


Hurricane Resources 


Special Needs Registry

  • The Special Medical Needs Shelter will be open for those with medical needs that require electricity, such as oxygen dependence, dialysis, ventilators, nebulizers, etc.
  • You must pre-register for the Special Medical Needs Shelter here

Please visit this website for more information. 

Florida Hurricane Shelters

The links provided are your local shelter information pages. The information may vary from county to county.

Please visit this website for more information.

Know your Evacuation Zone

Hurricane evacuation zones are no longer referenced by storm category, but are now named by hurricane surge evacuation zones: A, B, C, D and E.

  1. Find My Evacuation Zone (click on the magnifying glass to enter your address)
  2. Make your written Emergency Plan.

Generator Safety

If you are using a generator because you have lost power, make sure you do so safely! Improperly using a generator can result in loss of life or property.

Please visit this website for safety tips.

State Assistance Information Line

The State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) is a toll-free hotline activated at the time of an emergency to provide an additional resource for those in Florida to receive accurate and up-to-date information regarding an emergency or disaster situation impacting the State of Florida.

The SAIL hotline is: 1-800-342-3557

The SAIL hotline is only operational during an emergency event; at all other times, a recorded message with general information about the hotline is available