The Story of a Clinical Neuropsychologist

From a disadvantaged childhood to becoming one of our best-loved clinical neuropsychologists, this exceptional book tells the life story of Barbara A. Wilson, who has changed the way we think about brain injury rehabilitation.

Barbara?s story shows how it is possible to have a fulfilling career alongside a successful family life, even when faced with the deepest of personal tragedies; the death of her adult daughter Sarah. Clinical and neuropsychologists will recognise Barbara?s influence on rehabilitation practice and her tireless aim to get what is best for people needing neuropsychological rehabilitation. It will inspire those with brain injury and their families who may struggle to make life meaningful, as well as encourage readers to stick to their beliefs and triumph in the face of obstacles.

Preamble

Preface

Michael Wilson

PART ONE

Chapter One: Early life: wartime years

Chapter Two: Grammar schooldays in South London

Chapter Three: Marriage, babies and being a hippy

Chapter Four: University as a mature student

Chapter Five: My career starts: discovering brain injury rehabilitation at Rivermead Rehabilitation Centre

Chapter Six: Charing Cross, Southampton and Cambridge

Chapter Seven: Founding the Oliver Zangwill Centre

Chapter Eight: The death of Sarah, journey to the Cotahuasi Valley, finding The Compassionate Friends and the importance of family.

Chapter Nine: Return to work and my final years as a professional

PART TWO

Chapter Ten: Retirement and post retirement: The Raphael Hospital

Chapter Eleven: Other happenings

Chapter Twelve: Family and friends,

Chapter Thirteen: More About Travels

Chapter Fourteen: Final Thoughts

References

Barbara A. Wilson has worked in brain injury rehabilitation for 42 years. She founded the Oliver Zangwill Centre and the journal Neuropsychological Rehabilitation. She has won many awards including an OBE for services to rehabilitation.