The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Montefiore Health System was awarded a corporate citizen award for its quality care in brain injuries on Thursday.

The Brain Injury Association of New York state (BIANYS) recognized the organization at the Journey of Hope Gala. 

Montefiore's Department of Rehabilitation Medicine was first started in the 1960's. In addition to traditional care, the department was recognized for its adaptive sports program, which helps patients get reacclimated to life after a brain injury. 

Dr. Matthew Bartels, chairman of Department Of Rehabilitation Medicine at Montefiore, says their center has everything to support an individual with a brain injury. It includes speech, physical therapy, inpatient, outpatient care and even follow-up care. 

One of Dr. Bartels patients, Wendy, who's suffered from two strokes and two brain surgery's, says they have been incredibly supportive in education and understanding what's going on.

Dr. Bartel says the biggest takeaway people should understand is patience and kindness. He says to help these individuals when you can because it allows them to feel their injury or disability isn't an obstacle.