New TBI, mental health center to open in June

[unhappycamper]

New TBI, mental health center to open in June
By Karen Jowers - Staff writer
Posted : Thursday May 20, 2010 10:17:57 EDT

A new 72,000-square-foot center for treatment of service members and veterans diagnosed with traumatic brain injury and psychological health conditions will open June 24 at National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.

The National Intrepid Center of Excellence, to be funded by private donations, is a project of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, a nonprofit organization begun by the Fisher family for supporting service members and their families.

The family is well known in the military community for its Fisher Houses, which provide low- or no-cost lodging for families of wounded or injured service members undergoing medical treatment or rehabilitation.

Thousands of Americans have contributed to the $65 million effort, with donations ranging from a few dollars to a $3 million gift from TV personality Bob Barker. Donations also have come from corporate and nonprofit organizations.

The funds have helped build and equip the center; it will now be turned over to the Defense Department to operate.