Making visible the invisible since 1982 | | 2 Walks. 2 Locations. 1 Purpose. | | |
Early Bird Registration is NOW OPEN for BIAC’s 2025 Walk for Thought!
We’re thrilled to share that BIAC’s annual Walk for Thought is expanding—and this year, you can choose to walk in one or both locations!
In response to requests from survivors, families, and supporters across Connecticut, we’ve added a second walk to help more people participate, connect, and be part of this meaningful event.
Join us for a day, or two, full of inspiration, camaraderie, and joy as we walk and roll together! We can't wait to reunite, share stories, raise awareness about brain injury and critical funds for BIAC—all in the beautiful settings of Northwest Park and Old Grove Park.
Let’s walk and roll together—with purpose, with compassion, and with hope.
| | The Power of Paying It Forward | | |
Sometimes, a single act of kindness can spark a chain reaction that impacts countless others. That’s what happened when John, a brain injury survivor who had been experiencing homelessness, reached out to BIAC with an update that left a lasting impression.
Around the holidays, BIAC was able to provide John with a gift card, generously funded by the Dowd family. At the time, he and his family were living in a hotel. Now, months later, he shared that they’ve moved into a studio apartment - a huge milestone. More than that, John expressed deep gratitude for the support he’s received over the years and shared how it inspired him to give back.
During a recent hospital visit, John lost his sneakers in the ambulance and was discharged without shoes. The hospital gave him disposable slippers, but he described feeling embarrassed and undignified walking to the car. That moment stuck with him.
Determined to make sure others wouldn’t have to feel the same way, John spent a month contacting the right people at Nike. His advocacy paid off! Nike donated 1,000 pairs of shoes for hospital patients in need!
John made this happen during an incredibly difficult period in his own life, when he had little to give except his time and determination. His story is a moving example of the resilience, compassion, and strength that brain injury survivors carry - and a beautiful reminder of how one person, inspired by kindness, can make a world of difference for others.
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| | National Therapeutic Recreation Week | | |
Rebuilding Life After Brain Injury
Therapeutic recreation is essential for people living with brain injuries, offering more than just leisure. It’s a vital part of healing and is celebrated during the second week of July.
National Therapeutic Recreation Week highlights how recreational therapy helps survivors regain social skills, manage emotions, and rebuild confidence. Whether through adaptive sports, music, art, or community outings, therapeutic recreation fosters connection, purpose, and joy. These programs combat isolation and support recovery by engaging the brain and body in meaningful activities.
For many survivors, therapeutic recreation is a bridge to independence and a renewed sense of self. This July let’s support people with brain injuries by helping them to engage or re-engage with recreational activities.
Learn more at Benefits of Recreational Therapy in TBI Recovery and
15 Fun, Therapeutic Activities for Brain Injury Patients
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Celebrating 35 Years of the ADA: Protecting the Rights of People with Brain Injuries
This July marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a transformative civil rights law that continues to shape the lives of people with disabilities, including those with brain injuries.
The ADA prohibits discrimination in employment, transportation, and public life - ensuring that people with cognitive, sensory, and behavioral challenges have equal access to opportunities and services.
For brain injury survivors, the ADA has paved the way for reasonable workplace accommodations, accessible public spaces, and a greater understanding of “invisible” disabilities. As we honor this milestone, we recognize the ongoing need to advocate for equity, educate communities, and create environments that embrace inclusion and dignity.
Learn more about your rights and how the ADA can support your journey at ADA.gov.
| | Bike for Thought Thank You! | | |
Thank you to everyone who supported our 2025 Bike for Thought campaign!
Whether you donated, shared the fundraiser, or cheered us on, your generosity and enthusiasm helped us pedal closer to a world where individuals affected by brain injury have the resources, support, and voice they deserve.
Thanks to your support, we exceeded our goal—raising $11,109.50 to support BIAC's mission.
A special thank you to our incredible event co-chairs, Greg Bubnash and Lisa Wheeler, who go above and beyond year after year—not only raising funds, but helping us raise awareness across Connecticut.
| | You're Not Alone: Join a Support Group | | |
Living with a brain injury can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. BIAC support groups offer a safe, welcoming space where survivors and caregivers come together to share stories, listen, and build community. Whether you're newly injured or years into your journey of healing, connecting with others who “get it” can provide comfort, practical insight, and renewed strength. Groups are free, statewide, and open to all.
Click HERE to explore your options.
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The annual Gaylord Gauntlet took place on Saturday, June 14th, bringing excitement and energy to the 400-acre campus of Gaylord Specialty Healthcare in Wallingford, CT.
This thrilling 5K trail and obstacle run challenged participants with 24 natural and manmade obstacles—including mud, water, fire, and more—set along a rugged wooded course.
Proceeds from the event supported the Gaylord Sports Association, which is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with physical disabilities through adaptive sports and recreational programs. Gaylord Specialty Healthcare, a 137-bed long-term acute care hospital, provides vital services for those recovering from life-altering injuries or illnesses.
| | Thank You to Our Partners! | | |
Brain Injury Alliance of Connecticut
200 Day Hill Road, Suite 250, Windsor, CT 06095 | 860-219-0291 | www.biact.org
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