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Survivor Stories

Survivor Stories

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Tessie DiFulco
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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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

Living with a spinal cord injury has been a challenge but the peer mentor program has definitely assisted me in adjusting to my new normal. Thank you for giving me hope.

Emerson Moss

Individual with SCI

Having a spinal cord injury is very challenging but with the support I have received from BIALA, life is a little easier. The kindness and compassion I receive when I call the hotline is wonderful plus the resources I learn about are invaluable. My spirits are always lifted after I reach out to BIALA.

Caroline Nick

Individual with SCI