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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In between my therapies, I wanted to keep moving forward so I reached out to find some ideas of ways to keep my brain working. They were so helpful and friendly and gave me many great ideas to try. We were even laughing together, and it made it feel like I was talking to a friend.

Bobby Bodin

Individual with TBI

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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

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My son sustained a spinal cord injury a few years ago, and I still rely on the resources BIALA has to offer to help us live our lives. When I am feeling down and need some encouragement, the BIALA hotline is the first place I reach out to. I feel a sense of relief after I call because of the kindness and compassion I am given. BIALA seems to really care about those they serve, and I am so thankful to have someone to talk to.

Berly Rose

Caregiver