Nancy Bauser survived a head-on collision in which she sustained a severe brain-stem injury while she was a senior at the University of Michigan in 1971. After rehabilitating and recovering for only nine months, she chose to return school and complete her undergraduate education. Nancy received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1973. She went on to obtain a master’s degree in social work, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1976. In 1984, Nancy was admitted to the Academy of Certified Social Workers, A.C.S.W. After working as a peer counselor for out-patient mental health & substance abuse clinics, Nancy developed a 24 week format for teaching acceptance of injury, disability or illness, in 2000.
Her book is called Acceptance Groups for Survivors, A Guide for Facilitators and first editions are available from her web site. In 2004, Nancy obtained recognition from The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. She is a Board Certified Expert in Traumatic Stress, with a Board Certification in Disability Trauma. In 2008, Nancy did two things. She became a member of the National Center for Crisis Management and chose to re-publish her book so she could display her new credentials and change the color of the cover. In Recognition of Perseverance, Determination and Never-Quit Spirit, Nancy was named a 2009 Energizer Keep Going Hall of Fame Semifinalist. From the International Association of Business Leaders, Nancy was presented with a 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award. Nancy combines lessons she has learned as a 39 year survivor of a catastrophe, with her social work education and training as a Disability Life Coach, to provide modeling, motivation and support coaching services to those who have experienced trauma and those who support them.
An example of the kind of impact Nancy has had on people with who she works, is explained by the parent of one of her clients:
I have never laid eyes on you but I feel your heart and from Lodi (over a thousand miles away)…..I am now crying because YOU understand and more importantly, CARE about something bigger than yourself……You care about the people who are beginning the journey you began over 38 years ago and SURVIVED AND THRIVED……. The word care, is a “HUGE UNDERSTATEMENT!” You seek to understand……what a tremendous gift.
Kathy
