Erin Brockovich visits Synapse

Tuesday, 8th of March, 2011

Synapse was recently honoured to host a Q&A session with the famous Erin Brockovich courtesy of Shine Lawyers who represent many clients with brain and spinal cord injuries.

For those of you who have not heard of her, Erin Brockovich is the legal researcher made famous for her work in bringing about one of the largest class action cases against a major US Company. The company had contaminated a community’s water supply and in doing devastated the health of local families. Erin engaged effectively with the community and assisted in collecting the crucial evidence the case needed. In doing so she made history and her life was made into a Julia Roberts film.

Around one hundred guests attended the Synapse function comprising clients, their families, Synapse staff members, colleagues and partners.

Jennifer Cullen Chief Executive Officer for Synapse welcomed the gathering and gave our guests an overview of the issues facing people living with Acquired Brain Injury. Wendy Nixson, Department Manager for Health Law at Shine Lawyers, then introduced Erin.  Wendy commented that Shine Lawyers has been working with Synapse to broaden their understanding of the impact of such injuries on individuals and their families within the community.

During the Q&A session Erin shared with our gathering the fact that her life may also be impacted by Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). She gave an overview of her current projects. Erin inspired everyone and said that “people living with a disability bring something special to our communities”. She also said that people with disabilities provide a unique perspective, they add to our diversity and that everyone has the right to be heard.

To mark the occasion Erin kindly donated four autographed photos of herself to be auctioned for charity, proceeds going to assist people living with ABI. Synapse will be placing them on eBay in the months leading-up to and including Brain Injury Awareness Week (15th to 21st of August).

Synapse would like to thank Shine lawyers for bringing us the special opportunity of meeting Erin Brockovich in person. We wish Shine Lawyers and Erin all the best in their endeavours.

[end]

Media inquries: Anna Petrou on +61 7 3137 7400 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .