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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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

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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

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Painting a mask and showing how it feels to live with a brain injury was a lot of fun and also made me feel good and important. People don't understand so thank you for allowing me to share how I feel. I can't wait to see my mask on the art display. Thanks for making me smile and feel good about myself.

Ada Henderson

Individual with TBI