Since I’ve been talking to you, I notice a difference. Vastly different than just regular therapy that doesn’t understand brain damage. [My partner] noticed I’m doing way better because you really understand my brain injury. It’s registered to him that specialized help makes a really big difference.

Coming to these groups restarts my day, helps me be kinder to myself, and my life is getting better. That is why I keep going on repeat. Hearing the topics repeatedly helps me remember more and better understand myself.

BIAC is cool. I can call them and think aloud with them. Then they help me figure out if there are steps, I can take or resources out there that fit my situation. The brain injury skills stuff I can also use to stay away from using drugs and alcohol, which just make my brain worse anyways.

BIAC services have helped me more in two months than any other place I’ve been referred to before. BIAC has helped me learn about my symptoms and how to deal with them. BIAC has helped me get connected to real resources that I am actually eligible for. BIAC listens to me and offers me multiple ideas or solutions. BIAC is awesome. I wish I had been connected to BIAC sooner.

I just feel like I got handed a world of opportunity.

You motivate me so much to do better for myself. It makes me feel good to know someone has my back supporting me. If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t have Medicaid, a primary doctor, dental help, work, and more. I’m doing way better than I was when I first called. I’m dead serious. I wouldn’t be where I’m at without you. You changed my life.

I used to feel so bad about myself and you have been there for me and are always comforting.

I did not know what to expect when I entered into the program, but was quickly aware of the value, expertise and knowledge of my counselor in handling my unique set of challenges.

It is not a matter of will I be back, but when can I return?

I so enjoyed attending this camp, as it provides me opportunities to explore new talents, rekindle old enjoyments, and find new ways to be creative.

The instructor is so inclusive, and I come away feeling more balanced and happy. I can tell my body benefits from her guidance

The sun was shining, the road was open, and I felt the thrill of the wind in my hair on Feb 21, 2020… without warning, a car hit me, and my world went black. I woke up in a hospital bed… The doctor said I had a traumatic brain injury (TBI). My life had changed irrevocably.

The TBI affected my memory, concentration, and emotions… Simple tasks became difficult. My physical injuries healed, but the invisible wounds remained. I couldn’t return to my old job and struggled in relationships.

There were times when I wanted to give up, but I found strength in the support through the services of the Brain Injury Association of Colorado. I joined the self-management program in 2024, many years after my accident, and I learned that I wasn’t alone in my struggles. I discovered new ways to cope with my challenges and slowly began rebuilding my life.

I still live with the effects of my TBI, but I have come a long way… My journey has taught me resilience and the importance of cherishing every moment.

~ Jose

I mention the meditation class all the time. It has really helped me out in my recovery, and I want others to share my same experience.

~ Meditation participant

The staff were knowledgeable and friendly in the self-management program at the BIAC. They helped transform my life after a brain injury with organization, time management models, and one on one mentoring. I am forever grateful for the information and guidance from everyone at the BIAC.

~ Pamela R

Supportive group, nonjudgmental, helps with fine motor skills, gets you out of a rut, helps get your creativity flowing.

~ Art Class participant

I sustained my TBI from an assault in 2023 that turned my world upside down. I was lost in a world that I didn’t recognize anymore. Things I used to take for granted, like driving, cooking, and grocery shopping, became complicated. I felt like I was constantly fighting to regain some semblance of normalcy.

I struggle to find myself and a sense of belonging and purpose. Some of the biggest challenges I faced after my TBI were communication difficulties, cognitive fatigue, and emotional regulation. I felt isolated because I couldn’t express myself clearly, keep up with conversations, and control my emotions. Brain Injury Association of Colorado’s self-management program was a game-changer. My Brain Injury Advisor helped me navigate these challenges. Fred connected me with resources, provided practical strategies, and offered much-needed emotional support. He understood that recovery isn’t linear and celebrated every small victory with me. Thanks to BIAC, I’m regaining my independence and rediscovering my capabilities. I now have the tools and support to manage my TBI and live a fuller life.

~ Victoria

When I was 13 years old, I was playing and accidentally dove headfirst into a pine tree. Ever since I have had difficulty formulating thoughts and ideas, and following through on tasks. I became homeless partially as a result of this. But now at 40 years old I am housed in permanent supportive housing thanks to BIAC, and I am able to sleep at night and start to give back to my community.

~ David Garcia

This resource is so important to people with brain injury. When you first have an injury, it is a whole new world. Having people out there who are there to help with adjusting to the new conditions means so much.

~ The Mindful Brain participant

My name is Sarah “Shawzy” Cann and at 40 years old, my life changed in ways I never could have imagined. I contracted Rat Lungworm Disease (Neuro Angiostrongyliasis) while living in Hawai’i, the place I called home for half my life. This devastating illness led to a traumatic brain injury (TBI), and with it came a list of lifelong challenges that I continue to navigate every single day. The symptoms I endure are relentless. Tasks that once seemed simple now require careful planning and effort.

I had no choice but to relocate to Colorado, while this transition was heartbreaking, it also opened doors to a new kind of support—one that has been instrumental in my healing process. I have been fortunate to participate in the Brain Injury Association of Colorado’s self-management program. At first, I struggled even to acknowledge that I had a TBI. The reality of my condition felt overwhelming, and I wasn’t sure how to share my experience with others. But through this program, I found guidance, community, and a newfound confidence. I learned to accept my injury, to recognize the ways it affects my life, and, most importantly, to develop strategies to help me manage everyday tasks.

Living with a TBI is an ongoing battle, one that requires patience, resilience, and constant adaptation. But through it all, I have learned that I am not alone. My journey is still unfolding, and while there are challenges ahead, I now have the tools and support to face them with courage.

For anyone else struggling with the effects of a TBI, know that your journey is valid. Healing takes time, but with the right support, understanding, and self-compassion, it is possible to reclaim a sense of purpose and hope. Having a wonderful Brain Injury Advisor from BIAC is a sure way to lead you in the right direction. Never Give up!

~ Sarah “Shawzy” Cann