SACO — The memory of a man who did so much for the community and died too young lives on with the Michael T. Goulet Traumatic Brain Injury and Epilepsy Foundation.
The foundation was incorporated in February 2011, shortly after the death of Michael Goulet by his family members as a way to cope with the grief, said his sister Danielle Goulet.
In 2003, Saco resident Michael Goulet, then 13, had a traumatic brain injury as a result of a snowmobile accident.
He made a miraculous recovery, said his sister, and relearned how to eat, read, write and other life skills. But he developed a seizure disorder, and died in October 2010 from complications after a grand mal seizure.
Michael Goulet during his short life was known for his charitable work, said his sister. He joined the Knights of Columbus, delivered meals to the homebound on Thanksgiving, and on Christmas dressed up his pug and went to nursing homes.
“He was an old, old soul,” said Danielle Goulet. “We’re carrying on his mission.”
The foundation raises money and purchases multi-sport helmets which it distributes at fittings held throughout the state. Last year, it gave away 2,500 helmets, said Danielle Goulet. The foundation is hoping to be able to buy a trailer to transport the helmets, she said. Currently, they’re toted around in the back of a pickup truck, but because of the number of helmets, “It’s just not working for us anymore,” said Danielle Goulet.
The Michael T. Goulet foundation also raises money for scholarships and through a partnership with the University of New England does educational programs on brain injury.
The foundation is hosting a semi-formal fundraiser gala at The Landing, Pine Point Road, Scarborough on Feb. 28 from 7-11 p.m. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online at michaelgouletfoundation.org or by calling 891-7719.
There will be hors d’oeuvres and desserts, a silent auction and music by the Larry Williams Band, performing eight decades of music, from Frank Sinatra to Bruno Mars, said Danielle Goulet.
In 2010 about 2.5 million traumatic brain injuries occurred nationally either as an isolated injury or along with other injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
Traumatic brain injuries are caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain, according to the CDC. The severity of a traumatic brain injury ranges from mild, or a brief change in mental status or consciousness to severe, or an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia after the injury, according to the CDC.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.
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