Survivor Stories

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After a traumatic brain injury led to a 2 ½ month coma and a 4 ½ month hospitalization with left side paralysis, I underwent a profound transformation. My coma felt like a communion with God, filling me with peace unlike any on earth, reshaping my life’s focus deeply.

David Thomas

This year marks 35 years since my accident, a story many have asked about. I share this not for likes or comments, but because writing has been therapeutic for me. Crafting this didn't take hours or weeks, but months, as it required revisiting a long-unconsidered past.

Jamie Duplechine

At 15, I drove a Geo Tracker without a license, believing in my invincibility. On July 21, 1995, a crash left me paralyzed, a doctor doubting I'd walk or breathe alone again. Choosing resilience, I became Ms. Wheelchair Louisiana, advocated for disabilities, and now serve on multiple boards, embracing life's challenges.

Nicole Marquez

"Falling Down is How We Learn to Rise Up!" At 25, after my best audition, I found myself locked out of my 5th-floor apartment. Climbing to the roof to check if I could enter through a window, looking over the edge is the last thing I remember. I was rendered a quadriplegic, destined to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair.

BJ's Story

In this inspiring video, we delve into the life of BJ, a former aspiring pro football player whose dreams were abruptly halted by a traumatic brain injury. Despite the challenges, BJ discovered a new passion in painting, transforming his adversity into artistic expression that has since captured the hearts of his community.

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On a day that everything seemed to be going against me, I reached out for some help and was surprised that they actually were there to help me. My wheelchair was broken, and they were able to find a place to fix it for me. They educated me about the trust fund for people with spinal cord injuries and sent me an application. When I had questions about the application, I called back and was given the time and help needed to complete the application. They made me feel important so I am very thankful.

Robi Harsch

Individual with SCI

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The BIALA hotline has been a huge source of hope for me. As the mother of a daughter who has a brain injury, it has been extremely comforting to be able to talk to someone who is empathetic, kind and comforting. Somedays I just need someone to talk to so it is great knowing there is someone there willing to listen to me.

Avery Shelton

Caregiver

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Attending a Connections Circle event and meeting new people and learning that I can still enjoy life even with my spinal cord injury was a blessing. I haven't picked up a bowling ball in 30 years, and today, when I did, my first bowl was a strike. This smile on my face won't go away.

Chris Alford

Individual with SCI