San Diego Brain Injury Foundation

This foundation has a lot of heart and soul wanting to do the best for the San Diego community in regards to helping those with brain injuries. Using whatever resources are available, they will listen to your situation and try and help you in the best way possible to get you and your family the support you need.

It's a full circle moment when how I started volunteering with SDBIF began in 2020 when I was looking up organizations to do work with and I found it ranked as #1 on GreatNonprofits. I have served as a volunteer whenever I can since, and I can attest to it being one of the greatest and most meaningful groups I have ever been a part of. The community is fantastic and the staff's goal is truly to make as much as a positive impact on people's lives as possible. The fundraisers not only alllow for continued resources for patients and family who have suffered from TBI but also opportunities for the entire community to connect with each other. The monthly meetings remind those going through such tough times that they are not alone. The collaborations they do with the San Diego community expand the support and awareness such that we can do more for those that need it. It has been nothing short of a delight to see SDBIF push for additional events and utilities, and I hope that I get to continue to grow as a humanitarian with such an earnest organization for as long as possible.

The San Diego Brain Injury Foundation has been life saving to me and my family. I have known Stephanie
Bidegain the COO for at least 6 years now. She and Dr. Roslyn Knox,The Executive Director, give it their all everyday to the brain injury community. I am the mother to a brain injury survivor who lives in Howard House, SDBIF's 24 hour care facility. This facility is home to my son. It is a great place with wonderful caring staff and therapists. I am a board member and have been for a little over a year. What an honor to volunteer alongside such amazing people. To list all the things SDBIF offers free of charge to the TBI community is more than I probably can put in this box. Some examples are monthly peer to peer support group meetings, monthly Family and caregiver support group meetings, monthly speaker series, very informative news letter, scholarships,help line, quarterly forums ano community events. My life,my son's life, my family's life would not be where it is today without SDBIF! Thank
you SdBIF for giving us our lives back!

Awesome volunteers and people working there made us feel welcome

Staff is the Best at Howard House they Love and Care for the Residents.

I am a volunteer and it was a pleasure working with the SDBIF staff!

SDBIF has an amazing and kind people the work and volunteer for them. I have personally seen members like Dr. Roslyn and Stephanie work tirelessly to make sure they provide the best care and support of the residents and keep the community informed.

Amazing and positive experience. Even as a volunteer, I felt the magnitude of passion and support of the team. Will definitely be back to volunteer again. This group is unmatched in the most positive way!

My experience with the SDBIF has been one that I will always remember! I love volunteering and helping out because my mom is a brain injury survivor. The atmosphere is great and their mission to help people who have suffered from brain damage is something that really interests me.

Had a great time at the organization. Not only were all the staff great to me, but you can tell that all the reaidents are loved and appreciated. I also like how the organization works close with the families as well. They dont only take care of the resident but the family as well.

The Foundation Is Awesome! Super Nice & Always Goes Above & Beyond!

Amazing oraganization, very caring staff❤️ so grateful for them and everything they do.

My experience with the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation has been in supporting their wonderful residential home Howard House. Howard House is a very comfortable home where residents with brain injuries live with 24 hour support. Each resident is well cared for and provided with nourishing meals and daily activities to maximize their health and quality of life. The residents receive ongoing therapy and have developed close relationships with the staff and therapists. Family members are comforted by the fact that their loved ones are well cared for at Howard House. The San Diego Brain Injury is dedicated to maintaining this home for brain injured individuals who are unable to care for themselves.

Collaboration with the SDBIF has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Staff working here treat each survivor and their families with compassion and sensitivity while providing opportunities for growth through daily activities. Celebrating special milestones creates a family like atmosphere which adds a unique quality which feels like home.

The San Diego Brian Injury Foundation has been an incredible resource for me as Traumatic Brain Injury survivor from an accident in 2008. The wonderful people there have empowered me to volunteer & support other survivors!

As a former board member and caregiver for my spouse, I can highly recommend the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation. When a brain injury first happens to someone in your family, you feel totally lost and alone. SDBIF offers education, resources, support and the opportunity to make friends with others in the same situation. I was involved with this organization for over 20 years and can tell you that SDBIF made all the difference in recovery for my spouse and our family.

My son has a brain injury. When he was released from the hospital we had no guidance in how to care for him. The San Diego Brain Injury Foundation and Stephanie were incredibly helpful in giving us constructive ideas to help us navigate this new world.

San Diego Brain Injury Foundation has supported our family when we needed it most. We are all so grateful for their support in our time of need.

On August 27th 2016 I was in a near fatal motorcycle accident and suffered a severe traumatic brain injury. Throughout my recovery, as I struggled to find community and my relationships disappeared, I heard about SDBIF and how it helped people, afflicted like me, find their new path or reach their next goal. I was a 33 year old, otherwise healthy person and I had a lot to offer, I just didn't know where or how. What I have been able to achieve with their help and support is that I gained the necessary knowledge and strategies to re-enter college and pursue an Associates Degree in 2021.
Along this path, I have found and dealt with many obstacles to make it this far. I have learned invaluable strategies to deal with my social anxiety, and memory issues. Those memory strategies, I have come to notice, will continue to be used throughout my life beyond the educational setting. With each new step, a new obstacle or diversion would present itself. Thankfully, I now have specific resources and a group of folks that understand, and work to help me appropriately deal with them.

My son suffered a brain injury a few years ago. When he was released from the hospital for our family to care for, we were at a complete loss. Stephanie at SD Brain Injury Foundation was great at helping us find ways for us to help him. Thank goodness for them.

The San Diego Brain Injury Foundation helps so many brain injury survivors, their families, friends and the entire San Diego community. They do this by reaching out in whatever way they can to engage their beneficiaries. Programming includes opportunities to connect, to curb the isolation, loneliness and at times challenges faced in everyday life. Monthly meetings in person, Zoom conversations, mentoring, interactive cultural/art programming, exercise and activity, all supported and enhanced by a vibrant and state of the art website.

There is such communication, dedication and involvement from the staff, to ensure no one that needs services is left behind. This is what makes the SDBIF so magical and important. And, the SDBIF is looking to offer even more opportunities in the future. I have volunteered for this organization for close to ten years. This community is so special and I am so grateful to be a part of their continued growth and service!!!

This is a community of amazing people. Filled with passion, SDBIF helps the San Diego community and beyond provide services for people in need. I'm a member of the public and I see their mission in action and love seeing their team helping people in need. I highly recommend this company to anyone in need of support for cognitive challenges.

I am a 4 or 5 time head injury survivor. I do not see what good this foundation has done. I would like to make a presentation to some one so I can get a $25,000 Grant to help ! These big organizations suck up the money but we suffer !

I have had the pleasure of volunteering for this nonprofit since January 2023. The nonprofit's staff and volunteers welcomed me into the SDBIF community, and they make a point to check-in with me each time they see me at an event. They have an undeniable passion for and history of providing San Diego brain injury survivors and their loved ones with the best resources in the area, and I am proud to be a volunteer for this organization.

As a survivor of a brain injury, I have so much respect and gratitude for the incredible work the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation does. I can tell you from experience how difficult it is to regain your life and be the person you were before the injury. But having an organization like the SDBIF in your corner to assist and support you in that effort is wonderful. They are absolutely doing The Lord’s work, and I am one of the fortunate blessed by their existence.

The San Diego Brain Injury Foundation has been a life saver for me. With a brain injury, I was able to obtain referrals for a Neurophychologist, and a Zoom Support Group. The resources are abound to help with any issue related to a brain injury. I no longer feel so alone.

They always responded to my concerns and problems in a timely manner. Very caring and are ready to help! Thank you San Diego Brain Injury Foundation for being there for me!

I have been a volunteer with SDBIF since 2008. I have also received the support of being surrounded with resources as well as others that have experienced, a similar if not the same brain injury as myself. I am very proud to know that I have an outlet of support to either get support and/or provide volunteer services (golf tournament, Walk for Thoughts, and/or the Friendraiser). To feel supported, needed, and appreciated is hard to find. I rate the foundation at a 5 for all the hope in my life it has provided since 2008.

SDBIF is a staple of the community and the value they bring in unmatched! Every year we see the people they serve live a life that would be otherwise impossible!

I love SDBIF! I had a severe TBI in 2006. Over the past 16 years. I’ve appreciated the support, awareness, education & camaraderie they’ve provided to me. It was very confusing and scary to return to my old life after my TBI. I had changed, and I was different person. It took time to rehabilitate. In fact, it’s still happening. I’m easily distracted & have behavioral problems. I have cognitive setbacks. I forget things and have difficulty with emotional cues and coping strategies. SDBIF helped me to understand my behavioral problems. Thank you SDBIF!

It has been a joy to work with SDBIF for the last 3 years providing therapy services for their residents. Their hardworking staff always have the residents best interests at heart. On top of services for clients they also provide invaluable resources for their families and caregivers including helpful articles and support groups. I look forward to continuing to help SDBIF serve the brain injury community and I am proud of the work we've done so far.

I had the opportunity to serve on this board for three years. I was thoroughly impressed with the dedication and professionalism of all the board members. They always considered what was in the best interest of the brain injury survivors and their families first.

Outstanding organization!! Great people who go above and beyond for TBI survivors.

This foundation is amazing in providing support, education and care for brain injury survivors and their families. My husband had a massive stroke fifteen years ago and we have been members of SDBIF ever since. The benefits have been wonderful and we have seen many other families benefit as well.

This unique brain injury community has been a huge resource and encouragement for me as I recover from a massive stroke and find people who can relate to my situation though there's might be very different we have so many commonalities. When I had my stroke I was in my mid-40s and life was moving along as it would be for any busy mom and suddenly came to a halt. It is amazing how much I can learn from other survivors and how much we can understand one another in a way that our friends and family who love us very much but do not "get it". So thankful for sdbif and creating this safe space for us.

This facility is life changing primarily due to Gail Ludwig and association

I have witnessed over many years the devotion of SDBIF to the brain injury community. They are always focused on the needs of individuals with brain injuries and their families not to the "organization". Their dedicated board commits numerous volunteer hours of their own time to insure the needs of these individuals are addressed. They have a vision for the future to expand outreach and provide services. Supporting SDBIF will allow them to reach their goals and positivity impact more survivors who are so deserving of assistance.

This organization provided, when we felt so alone in our quest to final normalcy within our "new normal" due to having a stroke. Their kindness and support and constant panoply of information for resources, educational lectures and/or just making us feel comfortable within our "new normal", which made life so comfortable and tolerable for us. We know that we are not alone, but amongst friends that share a unique bond.
This organization deserves a standing ovation and we are most grateful .

Absolutely a first-class organization. They truly care about helping those with brain injuries, and offer some incredible programs and support. A true game-changer; if you know anyone with a brain injury, do them a huge favor and tell them to check out the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation.

I just dove in again, when I had my accident, I was not able to absorb the possibility that I might have brain damage, Now I am

As a Board member of SDBIF, I know first-hand how this organization is a life-saver for so many in our brain injury community. Managing Howard House, a residential facility for survivors, is only one of many needs they address in San Diego. They provide referrals, education, and guidance to survivors and their families and they celebrate BI survivors in their efforts to re-establish a sense of self with the annual SurviveHeadstrong Walk for brain injury recovery. They rose to the occasion during the pandemic by reaching out to the BI community via Zoom to offer even more support groups, art activities, and educational presentations. San Diego is lucky to have SDBIF!

Trying to sum up what the SDBIF means to my family and I is more difficult than I anticipated. Since my brothers TBI in Sept, 2020, my family and I have been in need of help and resources, and the SDBIF has given us that and more. The programs, classes, and resources that are available have significantly helped my brother's forward progress. He is learning the daily tools he needs to start rebuilding his life and getting back on track. We could not be more grateful for the SDBIF and all those who volunteer their time to help those like my brother. The SDBIF has given my family and I hope during a dark time and I truly don't know where we would be without them.

These guys are awesome. Kurt, the executive director I spoke with, has a huge amount of enthusiasm for helping brain injury survivors and their families. And he understands the unique strengths that brain injury survivors have, as part of going through their journey.

An A+ human, and a remarkable Foundation. Highly recommended!

This foundation has helped guide me to resources in the community that have helped me live better with my TBI. They have guided me to resources that have taught me different techniques to deal with my TBI symptoms.

Great resource for the community. I refer patient's to their website almost daily.
Thank you!

I am a TBI survivor and found SDBIF in January when I was referred to them from my out patient therapy. What a Godsend. The programs are very helpful and spot on. Io have learned how to navigate applying to social security and my husband (caregiver) has learned tips on how to deal with me as well. The conversion to an online platform has worked well too. I'm so glad I found this organization who understands all I am going through and is there to support me and my family. Thank you for all you do.

My son incurred a TBI 4 years ago. He has attended the TBI education classes through SDBIF. The classes & social interactions have been a phenomenal help in his recovery. All inter actions we have had at the foundation with the staff have been exceptional. I can attribute a lot of his recovery success to this foundation & they have been a wealth of information to his family.

SDBIF is a great organization for assisting those that have to handle and get through the problems that arise in the aftermath of brain injuries.

I suffered my TBI 11 years ago. When I was released from my rehab program at Scripps hospital they referred my wife and I to the SDBIF. This foundation was extremely helpful in providing TBI resources, as well as a safe place to share our experience. SDBIF was a God send!

The SDBIF does so much for brain injury survivors and their families. My son has been a part of this organization since 2014 and they have been a great partner during his recovery from a severe TBI in 2013. Great people with an important mission.

The last review by "Asking" is unacceptable. Two stars just because your accountant doesn't understand how to read their income sheet??? The website you "quoted" (open990) does a TERRIBLE job of explaining where their funds came from (donations or fee payments) and then how they are divided up to be spent. If you SIMPLY go to their website you can read all about Howard House and the services they provide for the 8 residents there. Now EACH resident has to pay a hefty price to live there with 24-hour caretakers. This is NOT donated/fundraised $$—AND DEFINITELY NOT their primary purpose.

This is one of the most outstanding and caring foundations I have volunteered with. Anyone who knows this foundation knows that they pour 150% of their heart and soul into making sure that anyone affected by brain injury feels like they have somewhere to go and turn to. The number of people that SDBIF helps in SD and around the country is incredible since there are only 2 staff members. The money that they fundraise goes directly to providing the telephone helpline, monthly Saturday speaker series meetings, online network, brain injury peer support groups, Day of Arts, the Brain Injury Guide (a printed book), the newsletter, and so many other programs that provide hope and comfort for soooo many.

BOTTOM LINE...every dollar fundraised goes to public services and NOT the Howard House operations; every dollar PAID for services for residents at Howard House go to Howard House operations. Simple.

Great foundation...more people need to become a brain injury "friends"!!!

WOW, the Zoom meeting with San Diego Disability Law Group was something that we really needed and we didn't know where to go. We've tried reaching out to several large law firms, but we didn't have any luck. Thank you for hosting this meeting, it was very helpful and now we know who to contact directly and start getting things done.

I have survived 2 strokes and 4 traumatic brain injuries. I spent a semester in the care of the Mesa College ABI Program. I will forever be indebted to the program and the SDBIF for their support and for providing me with resources.

A great local resource for TBI/ABI survivors and their caregivers.

This is in response to the review that was posted on 5/10/20...you are completely correct when you say that they are "an outstanding group of dedicated people", but much of what you have stated is incorrect. Yes, there are 2 paid staff members that manage the office, but they have many other personnel to manage the ONLY long-term residential care facility for brain injury survivors in San Diego (Howard House). What SDBIF can do with their small budget is truly incredible. Having volunteered with SDBIF for almost 20 years, I know that their volunteer crew is a vital part of their ability to do so much. They have cultivated great camaraderie between all of us and I am honored to serve such a noble organization.

Just SOME of the services they provide include: the telephone helpline, an online brain injury community network, continuing education survivor scholarships, Howard House residency, hosting monthly Saturday meetings, Day of Art and so much more. AND I know that they are planning on initiating many more programs over the next few years (i.e. a survivor case management program)…but all of this takes funding, which is harder to get than you can imagine. The SDBIF Board actually meets once a month, NOT once a year—and consists of survivors, professionals and family/friends of survivors. Creating and sustaining programs such as job training for survivors takes a significant amount of money, but that is why they partner with programs like the ABI program at SDCCD that already provides these sorts of programs.

They understand that there are many unmet needs in this community, but they try to address as many as they can—and I think they are doing a great job! They are the hub for anyone who has been affected by brain injury, not just in San Diego but around the country. For such a small organization, they provide sooooo many people with soooo much.

The mission of the SDBIF is to support and provide advocacy to the brain injuried community here in San Diego. They have always been an outstanding group of dedicated people. What is probably not known is that there are only 2 actual paid staff who run a small office. The rest of the foundation is made up of volunteers- from the board of prominent medical professional that meet once a year- to the families and survivors who donate time and money
These are a great group of people but who exactly is running the foundation and what exactly is the funding going for?
Have any new education materials been developed? What about creating partnerships with small biz for job training programs? Alot of obvious needs not addressed.

Responsive, professional, dedicated staff. As a healthcare professional, I appreciate being able to connect patients and families with this incredible organization.

I am a Ruptured Brain Aneurysm Survivor!!
It’s sooooo nice to have this Group to lean on.
Much Love & Big HuGs from my Family!!

SDBIF was there to support my family with answers and resources when my son was injured in a ski accident and we did not know what kind of recovery he would have. We have attended many meetings and learned so much from the presenters. The scholarships they give are also a wonderful way of supporting survivors of brain injury towards continuing their journey towards their goals.

SDBIF is full of survivors, loved ones, professionals and friends who want to help make a better quality of life for this community. I've been fortunate to have been involved with this group for many years. Honesty, integrity, compassion, dedication, focus, and hard work, is what I've seen. Other groups are copying this model, as it gives a leg up to brain-injured people. "You are not alone."

When my son was hit by a car and suffered a severe brain injury I was at a loss. I didn't know anything about a brain injury. I google help in our area and found the SDBIF. They were so pleasant when I called asking questions for aide and knowledge. Just listening to the concerned voice on the other end made me feel like I wasn't alone in this journey. When my son was able, we attended the annual brain injury walk. Love poured out from this event, seeing others further along or some a little behind my son's progress gave me such hope and happiness for our new brain injured life. I would recommend this nonprofit to those effected as well as others who just want to learn more about brain injuries and give support to the community.

I appreciate the valuable education and support that the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation gives to the community. And I enjoy reconnecting with my friends and colleagues at the Friendraiser to celebrate our close collaboration.

I had the best time at this event. The wine and food tasted amazing. The artist and their stories were overwhelmingly inspiring. It was a night to remember.

SDBIF is a wonderful, thoughtful and inspiring non-profit organization that helps MANY survivors (as well as caregivers, families, etc.) with brain injury find supports within their area for a better quality of life. They also hold monthly meetings to help build a brain injury community and share about community resources. The website is EXTREMELY helpful in providing several different types of resources to survivors, etc., including: San Diego county meeting list, food resources, housing information, community events and many more!

I think i got my 1987 brain trauma injury re injured in the San Diego Superior family court divorce proceedings whereby the family law attornies have taken $300,000 of my retirement at age 60. I really need some bti advocacy. Do you know an attorny who might be a good bti advocate and legal support on my behalf?

SDBIF is a great resource for TBI survivors and their families. They provide informative monthly Saturday meetings for survivors, families, and caregivers. The guest speakers are very knowledgable and present the information at the appropiate level for TBI survivors.
The Survive Headstrong Walk for Recovery, Golf Tournament, and Friendraiser are annual events that SDBIF provides for the brain injury community that brings survivors, families, and friends together.
SDBIF provides survivors activities such as Day of Art and Friday Night Liberty (which highlights survivor artists.)
The SDBIF website has a wealth of information and resources.

I am proud to be a Board Member of this wonderful organization

I had the privilege of volunteering with the SDBIF over the summer of 2018. The organization is very welcoming, and is a great support network for individuals who have suffered from a brain injury. The leadership is strong and organized, and values each and every member of the org as its own. For example, there are special events for members to take part in, and parents are welcome to join and are also provided support. Activities are fun, therapeutic, and bring closeness to the members. Proud to have been part of a great foundation!
-Jena G

The San Diego Brain Injury Association is a very helpful resource for anyone who has experienced a brain attack. I have worked in physical rehabilitation as a recreation therapist and know the importance of having support for the family and survivor when the initial rehab is completed and their new life begins. Susan and Stephanie are very helpful and friendly and work collaboratively with many rehab centers to build that bridge back to the community. Thanks for all you do!!

I was so fearful about the future, and reeling from the overwhelming sense of loneliness I was experiencing after my husband suffered a stroke. I felt like I was the only one who was going through what I was going through, and I was desperate for relief. I learned from a friend that stroke is just one of the many types of traumatic brain injuries, and that I might find some help for myself at the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation. I called their number, and the very kind and patient person who answered the phone that day invited me to attend one of their meetings.

At that first meeting, I met other caregivers who assured me that they understood what I was going through. I also heard some very real and practical ideas for getting more support for myself as well as for my husband. Perhaps the most important benefit we have received so far from participating in just a few activities with SDBIF is that my husband now knows people with brain injuries who are living full lives. And those people and their families are more than happy to share with us what they did to get to where they are today.

I am quite grateful to the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation. I feel like I have friends there.

Informative and impactful - SDBIF is a wonderful non-profit for those injured and their families. Tremendous resources and support!

As retired teachers, we are happy to be volunteers for SDBIF. It is a hard-working group doing good things for many people who have had unfortunate set backs in their lives. They do their tireless work with good cheer and optimism. It is great to be a part of this.

Gary and Andrea Matthews

As retired teachers, we are happy to be volunteers for SDBIF. It is a hard-working group doing good things for many people who have had unfortunate set backs in their lives. They do their tireless work with good cheer and optimism. It is great to be a part of this.

Gary and Andrea Matthews

I was introduced to the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation around four months after I came home from college at 18 with major compound concussions and a diagnosis of never being able to care for myself on my own ever again. My parents had no idea what to do with me, and didn't understand the major change in my personality and behavior. They were given little to no instruction by my neuroscientist at the time and were just as lost as I was. SDBIF gave me life skills tools, classes, and a renewed sense of strength and hope that I could be independent again someday. They provided my family with information, support, and resources; they felt that they were empowered in their role as caretaker. I left the program feeling that I would recover - perhaps not that I would ever be the same again, but that I could live a life worth living.
A little over 10 years later, I am now in my final semesters of a masters program to become a marriage and family therapist to help other families like my own find their own strength and hope in light of the fear that TBIs bring. I am convinced that if it wasn't for SDBIF, my life would not be what it is now!

SDBIF has been by far the most helpful agency in the life of my son who is a brain injury survivor! Without the input from their staff and volunteers, my son's life would be very different and much less fulfilling. They provided me guidance after the first shock of his accident, and then ongoing care and support as he worked his way through his new life. They have an amazing array of resources to share with anyone who needs it!!

SDBIF Takes incredible efforts and consideration to make a positive change for people and families affected by Brain Injuries. They find ways to make fundraising fun and bring people together. It is a wonderful organization with a fantastic goal and members!

SDBIF is dedicated to helping those with acquired brain injury. They provide outstanding support for those injured and their family

Great organization, dedicated, ethical people! So many wonderful events for the brain injury community in this area--the Survive headstrong Walk, the annual Friendraiser, and more recently, the Day Of Art for survivors to explore their creative and expressive talents.

Proud to be a Board member!

I am an SDSU university student working on my master's degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling (helping person with disabilities find careers and employment). At the suggestion of one of my professors, I began volunteering with the SDBIF in 2014 and have made almost every south county meeting and event they have put on. At the once-a-month Saturday morning meetings, I help with set up and break down of the tables and chairs, as well as listen closely to the guest speakers that come to speak to the average of 30 persons per meeting about issues of significant interest to this population. They are an invaluable asset to the rehabilitation community in their promotion and advocacy for people who may have congenital deficits or Traumatic Brain Injury. They help with issues ranging from the simple task of inputting information into a smart phone, to navigating the programs offered by SSI and SSDI. For anyone desiring to volunteer for a good cause, this group is it and they do need this continued support from the foundation.

I was referred to the SDBIF about 3 years ago by Southern Caregiver Resource Center. I first went to a couple of meetings around December and realized what a great group of folks were working together to help those who had brain injuries. They did a Christmas skit with professionals and clients alike and it was a hoot.

What struck me most was the folks who spoke at a couple of the meetings. One was a lady who worked at San Diego State in the research department who herself had been in an accident and had a brain injury. This injury manifested in many odd behaviors which even her colleagues had trouble dealing with. She looked quite normal and she spoke with her usual cadence but she had difficulty with memory and moods etc. She would cry "at the drop of a hat". This alienated her even from the colleagues in the same department where she worked. Her condition was improving steadily and she was able to do more and more as time passed. She was an inspiration to us all and she and her husband were committed to finding ways to help those who had Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI's) and Acquired Brain Injuries (ABI's). Also the information that I got from the Brain Injury magazine was helpful in preparing a program for the court to help our son get some mandatory treatment. I was able to list and research groups and classes which allowed us to begin a program of recovery for our son.
.
It also struck me that the SDBIF Group were open to new, innovative and pioneering types of therapy and treatments for brain injuries. They had someone give a presentation on Homeopathy. I had been to other meetings where drugs were the order of the day and odd and questionable behaviors were always classified as mental illness without much consideration of the cause. This was not the case with this group.

Since I am an avid proponent of more natural and non-invasive therapies I am always interested in what is happening in functional medicine vs the more drug/cut/burn protocols that are promoted by standard medicine. The SDBiF is open to all the modalities of treatment without condemning or condoning any one in particular. It is entirely up to the participants and their caregivers to make their choice what is best for them.

I was given options and information without hesitation. Everyone I spoke to was kind and friendly and very helpful.

In the wake of our daughters brain injury, we were absolutely unsure of what was to come for her. The SDBIF stepped in prior to her discharge to educate us on brain injuries and their resources. We had a unique opportunity for our daughter to attend the SDBIF Brain Injury Learning Center. She is thriving. All of the staff are interested in the best interest of the clients they serve and do all things with loving hearts. I am indebted to the SDBIF and often refer people for services or simply to volunteer. Thank you SDBIF.

I had a stroke in 2005. I attended many SBIF meetings. I was able to speak with other people with brain damage. Sometimes only people who have been thru the same thing actually understand. For example, I would tell a friend that I had memory issues and the friend would insist she had them also. She had no idea about my type of memory issues and another survivor would.

The meetings always had useful speakers addressing the real needs of the brain injured community. Some of speakers spoke about accessing social services or learning to cope.

The San Diego Brain Injury Foundation creates a community of people addressing both the survivors and their caregivers.

SDBIF provides outstanding service to the brain injury survivors in San Diego County along with support to caregivers. We are fortunate to have them right here in San Diego!

Excellent and practical information and resources to empower the individual with a brain .injury.

SDBIF provides very helpful meetings every month, sometimes with lecturers that I personally had during my rehab therapy at Sharp hospital. They also provide many opportunities for brain injured people to play adaptive sports, and have various groups to join.

As 2016 comes to an end, my pride and awe for this organization continues to grow. This group has been tireless this year. I am most proud of the connections we have made in the community and the collaborative projects we have completed. So happy that we finished the revision of the family handbook and that we are working together to get it delivered to our local hospitals; that our fundraising has been successful--enabling us to donate to both the Brain Injury Association of California and the Brain Injury Association of America; that we were able to continue our mission to educate and support survivors and their caregivers; that we could sponsor the Walk celebrating the victories of survivors; that Howard House continues to serve the purpose of a safe and healing residence for survivors; and that we continue to look for other opportunities to support brain injury survivors in San Diego county. Feeling blessed to be a part of SDBIF

I Barbara Bates have been an active member of the Brain Injury Foundation for a few years. I am a brain injury survivor. I am very happy to be a part of this Foundation. I am with people that are learning strategies to cope with a brain injury. Before learning about the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation. I was in a circle that was crazy and a good life. I learned and believed that I have a brain injury. My life is not in a circle anymore. I have friends and people that are learning more strategies in coping with a brain injury. I am taking classes in their Acquired Brain Injury program at Mea College. I am learning to organize my stuff. I now can take a supply out use it.Then put it away. This makes my bedroom more livable. Along with being an artist. The Brain Injury Foundation of San Diego allows me to show and sell my art. I am coloring in an adult coloring books. It is very relaxing. I am learning to communicate better with myself and my communication is more effective to others around me. Mostly I am learning to be kind to myself and those around me. I am learning something new everyday about my injury plus I understanding things better. I am safe getting on and riding the bus. Best of all. I feel safe now.
I am a part of one big family. Thank you to The Brain Injury Foundation and Acquired Brain Injury Program teachers and friends my wonderful family and friends. I see differently now. I am very grateful for your support.

My 16 YEAR experience with THE San Diego Brain Injury Foundation has always been exceptional and timely. Whenever I phone them, I always receive prompt and totally helpful information, to aide me in my quest to try and overcome what ever obstacle I am currently facing. They have been kind and very understanding... (something that an ABI injured person doesn't always receive: It is an injury that, sometimes, doesn't show) The resources they refer me to are accurate and timely. Sometimes, it is just speaking with me kindly and slowly until I can get a handle on being able to describe my need. I feel safer because they are always there for me.... I have been, for the most part, able to navigate the 'mazes' life throws in my way, due directly to their help and kindness. We are lucky to have the resources we have in San Diego.... ONE OF A KIND!!! GREAT WORK!!!!!

Hello, my name is Raymond Ruffin, I suffered a gangolia stroke in 2011 and participated in the
SDBIF program on the Mesa college campus. It is the one major factor that have enabled me
to be a survival.

I met some the compassionate and caring friends ,teachers, and therapist there are to be found anywhere at anytime on the face of the earth. I suffered depression and cognitive
problems. These affected my self esteem, mental awareness, and memory.

When I withdrew from the program I was able to enter into mainstream life and function
acceptably and appropriate. I am still using the skills and understanding of my condition
to help me cope, and very well , I must say.

I am using memory and cognitive brain techniques learned in the classes taken during my
stay in the program, I even told my doctor about how competent the program is!
To this day, I still miss the day to day interactions that are common in the program and
I recommend the program for any patient that suffers a brain injury,no matter how sever or
simple, the program is magnificent and I can personally say I know of no one who has
participated that doesn't have high regards for the program, teachers, or comrades.

This program should be more widely recommended by physicians world wide, it offers
support and knowledge,understanding, and compassion for survivals and care givers
that can make the difference between thriving and just surviving!

THANKS SO VERY MUCH , SDBIF and ABI program

Ray Ruffin

My son recently had a TBI and the SDBIF has been there for invaluable support, information, and hugs. Susan Hansen and her team have been so engaging and helpful. She has taken the time to respond to all my emails and encouraged my son in his recovery. I find the monthly seminars in Hillcrest and Encinitas very useful; what i have learned about TBI through this amazing Foundation has been critical in my son's recovery. Thank you, SDBIF!!

This is a wonderful foundation that has allowed my wife to live a close to normal life that many doctors would not have seen possible. God had blessed my wife when he put these caring and loving people affiliated with this foundation in front of her. My wife suffered a severe brain injury and was only given a 3% chance of living and the the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation was the last step in my wife's recovery. Without the foundation I am not sure where my wife's progress would be. I will forever be indebted to this foundation.

In 2001 my husband had a brain injury. We saw many doctors but felt like we were on a bicycle with no seat and no handlebars! Then we found San Diego Brain Injury and became involved. There is a huge variety of various ways a brain can be injured and you will hear honest testaments from those attending the monthly meetings. Each life of the person, their families, and caregivers are all touched in numerous ways. San Diego Brain Injury reaches out to those it knows about and provides informational help and suggestions. I would suggest if you are feeling like you're on that no seat/no handlebar bike that you reach out to this valuable grass roots organization.

There are several support groups in the San Diego area, but this one is on the top of the best!
Thay provide resource information and speakers that bring valuable assistance to the survivor and caretaker. It is because of this group that I have found my major contacts and information for stroke rehabilitation. I owe much to their efforts.

SDBIF is an essential resource and support for dealing with the world of brain injury care and recovery. TBI is one of those things no one can be prepared for.

San Diego Brain Injury Foundation is such a wonderful resource here in San Diego. They offer so many important services and nonstop support to brain injury victims and their families. We are lucky to have them as a part of our community. Keep up the great work SDBIF!

San Diego Brain Injury Foundation is offering amazing opportunities for people with traumatic brain injuries. I tell people about this organization knowing that any connection made will be positive for all!

Very informative, courteous and helpful organization! Appreciated their resources, creativity and willingness to listen/understand. Unfortunately, there is a definite shortage of resources and understanding in the area of traumatic brain injury. SDBIF is singlehandedly working to dispel misconceptions around TBI, educate and inform and advocate for a misunderstood and sorely underserved population. Thank you for the work you do, we are so very grateful!!

An excellent organization that helps families and friends and survivors of TBI. We are so lucky to have SDBIF in Southern California.

I hold brain injury survivors close to my heart, as I have had many concussions. I feel like I can relate to them on a very very small scale. Since I had frustration with my personal experience, my heart goes out to those that deal with it on a daily basis and to their loved ones. My experience with the SDBIF started out participating in their events. I loved the staff, volunteers and of course the survivors. Me participating in the events quickly led to volunteering and now I am proud to say that this is the first organization that I have been asked to serve on the Board. I am now a Board Member. I couldn't imagine belonging to a better organization. The day to day help and assistance that they give to survivors and families is heart warming. The organization genuinely cares about improving the life of survivors, increasing social interaction, and serves as an outlet of unlimited resources for anyone in need. I am proud to be part of this wonderful organization and I encourage anyone interested to get involved or use the resources available. Thank you SDBIF for your hard work and all you do!

San Diego Brain Injury Foundation provides hope, support and a community to San Diego's brain injury survival population. The work they do makes a difference in many lives and families.

The San Diego Brain Injury foundation is a wonderful resource. They are very kind and have outstanding programs and guidance for those with an injury and for the family members and caregivers.

The resources provided by the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation fill the gap in a survivor's life after release from rehabilitation. These services make the difference between successfully adjusting to life after their injury and isolation at home.

I am a graduate student at San Diego State University in a vocational rehabilitation counseling program. As such, I do volunteer work with the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation in support of their monthly meetings and fund raising events. they fill an important niche in the community as a source for information, points-of-contact, and networking with others in the community who either advocate for or offer services to people with brain injuries, whether acquired or congenital.

Helping people with new and chronic challenges find resources and see around corners. SDBIF creates a supportive environment with many opportunities for interaction and education to help people understand and get perspective on brain injuries and the resulting challenges to survivors and loved ones.

San Diego Brain Injury Foundation has helped me find the resources I need to assist me in finding help as the caregiver and for my daughter who had an accident 15 years ago. The meetings they have once a month at Joyce Bearch are very helpful, they bring different speakers with a variety of themes. Susan and Stephanie will answer all your questions. Thank you for having a this free service for the community.

SDBIF helps so many people who are touched by brain injury by providing resources and offering volunteer opportunities.

Great resources for all parts of the brain injury community! Warmth, respect, information, expertise, and resources -- perfect combination!

I have been involved with SDBIF as a professional in the field of brain injury rehabilitation off and on for the past 23 years and I have watched it evolve into a spectacular organization that I am proud to be affiliated with. To paraphrase a famous quote, never have so few done so much for so many with so little. No need of a survivor or family is too little to be addressed in a personal and cutomized manner. I consistently refer my patients and families to these good people.

I have been involved with the San Diego brain injury foundation since its inception three decades ago. This organization has grown from a fledgling grassroots group of brain injury survivor, family members and interested professionals. Through many years of struggling to survive and to support the many and varied needs of the brain injury community in San Diego, this organization has grown into a fine example of what many larger more well funded foundations could only hope to be. No need for guidance, assistance, or resources is too small for this foundation to try to accommodate for the hundreds of its members and the community at large. They serve as a clearinghouse and information source for educational materials and professional referrals and day-to-day pragmatic needs that otherwise would have gone unmet for survivors of brain injuries and their families. They keep the community informed about political and legislative issues that affect the brain injured community and work tirelessly to influencethe decision-making bodies involved. Theythey treat the constituents they serveas a family and everyone is on a first name basis. They are very resourceful in their fundraising efforts and have a large supportive impact with small means. They can be credited for bettering the lives of hundreds of brain injury survivors in the San Diego region with their individualized and compassionate delivery of resources. I am never hesitant to refer consumers, patients, professionals, families and caregivers to this wonderful organization.

I have been involved with the SDBIF for about 12 years now, and have served as past president. I have had a TBI myself, and got into wanting to help the brain-injured and their families when I saw what brain surgery did to my brother-in-law and his family. Every aspect of one's life is affected by a BI, and it takes a lot of different types of help and interventions, and a lot of love, patience and understanding to help heal the individual and their loved ones. The people I have worked with, who are also passionate about improving the quality of life for this population, are some of the finest people I have ever encountered. The board members alone donate over 1.000 hrs. each year. Other survivors and friends put in many other hundreds of hours to reach out, educate, refer, and provide needed services where we are able. Every penny goes towards our mission, and people see our results, and want to come alongside and help, and most also donate to the cause. What a group!

San Diego Brain Injury Foundation has been serving as a resource and support system for children, adolescents and adults with brain injury in the San Diego community for over 30 years. The Officers and Board Members are committed to making sure that every individual with a brain injury and their family have access to the support and assistance that they need and desire. It a a community of love, care, and dedication. San Diego is fortunate to have such an organization and I am blessed to be part of this community.

I survived a brain injury in 2003. I wish I would have known about this foundation. As a graduate intern, I have been fortunate to learn all that SDBIF does. The support they have provided so many people is amazing. I was asked to be a board member in June. I love the support they provide to the family members and the social support they give to the survivors. I have learned so much about myself working with the SDBIF.
Heather Berner

When I sustained my TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) 6 years ago, I felt very alone. I lost my sense of smell and taste as a result. People that you once thought were your friends didn't understand the changes sustained from the injury. This became an eye opener as who your real friends are/were. Your whole person changes as a result of the injury. People don't understand the situation because TBI is an unseen injury; therefore you're fine in their eyes. Not so. My dad didn't believe In my injury all the way to the time he died 4 years ago. The people at the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation have been my emotional support and don't know what I would've done if I didn't have them. With them, I hope that one day people will not judge and/or discriminate against people with the unseen injury, TBI.

As the sister of a brain injury survivor, I was very excited to work with SDBIF as an intern. When I finished my internship, I was invited to serve as a member of the Board of Directors. It was a very rewarding experience. This organization is an absolutely vital resource for survivors and their families. The support and education they provide is outstanding. Speaking with survivors and their families you get a sense of how helpful SDBIF has been in getting them through the morass of information out their about brain injury. For the survivors, being able to get together socially and learn about each other is a way for them to know that they are not alone. Top notch staff and volunteers!

I ended up doing one of my internships at SDBIF. Never have I seen so few accomplish so much for so many on so little resources. I can only imagine how much more dynamic and influential in helping those with brain injuries,myself included, this organization could be if they had additional funding.The 'F' signifying foundation should be changed to 'Family'- as this organization helps us all to feel this way, during very trying times that can last for years

With great respect,
Michael Murphy

I love volunteering with Sdbif! I get to work with survivors who are beyond inspirational :)

I do not know what I would have done without the resources SDBIF have provided me and some of my BI friends! Life really changed for me after my head injury, no one seem to get me or I them. I received very little support or compassion after the injury, I felt so alone and confused. I attend a brain injury recovery center who recommended SDBIF to learn more about how to cope with my BI and meet others like me. SDBIF welcome me in like an old friend, I felt part of the family right off. The staff were helpful in finding resources, the monthly meeting provided me with much needed insights and the opportunity to meet others like me. SBIF gave me a place where I felt I belong and a home. I will forever grateful for the all the resources that were provided as well as the love and kindness I received from the staff.

With gratitude forever,

Martha Torkington

I have been volunteering with the San Diego rain Injury Foundation for over 10 years. Recently, I have been helping them with the marketing and promotions of their fundraising events. It is amazing how far they have come in these 14 years...and it is even more incredible how, this year especially, they have provided support, resources and a great community environment for the Brain Injured community. Their recent surviveHEADSTRONG - Walk for Recovery was more successful than ever before and has opened new doors to serve the community and they are ready to go! Great job SDBIF! I am proud to be working with you.

About the time I was to finish High School my mother began to experience a change. In the begining, the symptoms were slight and benign. Interests she had never previously expressed began to consume her everyday life. For example, she began running daily. First one mile, then five, then up to ten miles a day. Initially this appeared to be within the bounds of normal and even beneficial. But then the doctors appointments started. Her cholesterol and blood pressure were off the charts. This from a person in prime physical condition? Soon afterwards the mental confusion began. She started to have difficulty remembering small things and then this escalated to a level which impacted not only her career but her family life as well. After nearly a year of bouncing from one doctor to another she was diagnosed with a nonmalignant brain tumor. Surgery was scheduled within the week and she was told that the tumor had been growing for the past 7 years.

Fortunately for my mother and our family she made a full recovery. Nonetheless the following months were very difficult for her. Her medical care was outstanding but there were no organizations in the area that offered support like the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation. She had no opportunity to attend support groups, no outlet for the fear and concern she had revolving her brain tumor. An opportunity like this would have allowed her to meet other people who had survived and moved on from this kind of experience. Unfortunately, we had to manage without such a resource following her diagnosis.

Years later, I moved to San Diego. I learned about SDBIF from a friend who was going to be a guest speaker. I attended a support group, introduced myself and began volunteering as a guest speaker on legal issues surrounding brain injury. In time I became more involved with the organization and I currently sit on the board of directors. I have felt the personal impact that brain injury can have on a family and I have seen first had how SDBIF has provided support to the brain injured community of San Diego. They provide a service that no hospital offers with a personal touch that can be extended only by those who have first had experience with brain injury. SDBIF is a great asset to this community.

As a parent of a brain injury survivor and professional in the field (Speech Pathology) I am on a constant quest for resources. I joined SDBIF based on my observations that its volunteers serve unconditionally; and that the board serves in the same manner. I am grateful that we all work from the premise that quality of life is paramount for those we serve; and that direction to the appropriate resources can be life changing.

I believe the foundation has not only provided support for survivors, their families, and the community, through support groups and fund raising events that keep the foundation helping those who are dealing with such pivotal moment in their life when traumatic brain injury strikes. The San Diego Brain Injury Foundation brings hope to those on the journey to recovery and demonstrates that there’s a ray of hope as survivors, family members, and friends travel the journey to recovery. I’m proud to serve as a board member and help the foundation provide a ray of hope one survivor at a time.

Almost 11 years ago my son was in a near fatal auto accident, he survived with having a Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). I became involved with the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation before my son was released from the hospital by attending their Saturday support meetings. I found that I was not alone. When James came home from the hospital 10 months post coma and 15 months after his accident I began attending the meetings with him. I became a board member because I wanted to help make a difference in the lives of so many who have a family member with a brain injury. This organization helps give support and resources to families to help them cope with their newly changed lives and everyday living. From this organization I formed my own non-profit to work alongside and help get the word out about Traumatic Brain Injuries.

I have a son 9 years post traumatic brain injury and because of him I began attending the monthly support groups in San Diego. They supported me during some tough months and then 4 years ago I became a board member. There are 11,000 survivors and family members in San Diego County alone and every 23 seconds nationwide another person will acquire a traumatic brain injury. Because of their support in the county many families have received resources that have helped them through their family needs. Thank you San Diego Brain Injury for what you do to help the community.

SDBIF is the only non-profit agency that provides support services to brain injury survivors after release from the hospital and/or rehabilitation centers. SDBIF provides survivors with information about community resources, organizes support groups and collaborates with the San Diego Community College for classes focused on managing the challenges of their new life.
The organization keeps records and statistics of all assistance provided to brain injury survivors. Each survivor's success is celebrated.


ach survivors success.

As a postsecondary institution serving many individuals with acquired brain injuries, I cannot ask for a more supportive partner in providing success oportunities for the people we serve!
SDBIF is an ever present agancy for our Advisory Committee, a visible program for support of students on our campus and a fantastic group of individuals that enjoy fund raising along with other activities to support quality of life for persons with ABI.
They are friendly, positive and sincere in their support and area resource for us as I am sure we are for them.

I love the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation. They provide monthly support group meeting for persons who have suffered from any type of brain injury. I consider them to be the most important referral I give to my patients and their family members. My patients not only make friends and have a sense of community but families exchange information and support each other. The have specialized groups including a couples group which is also a vital service. There are very few resources for people with brain injuy and I am so glad we have this valuable foundation in San Diego. People with brain injury often recieve only brief treatment and would be lost without the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation which provides so much information and support.

Brain injury has ben caled teh SIlent Epidemic, and is even moreso these days with military personnel returning with brain injuries that often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years. The San Diego Brain INjury Foundation (SDBIF) serves brain injury survivors, their families, and the professional and educational community in San Diego with meetings and a great clearinghouse of information for the newly-diagnosed and the long-term survivors. Unless you have experienced BI firsthand, you have no idea how all-encompassing the cognitive / memory / social / physical problems can be. But SDBIF knows, and helps a tremendous number of people each year.
My husband and I are Speech-Language Pathologists in private practice, although we both have worked in rehab hospitals. We were on the founding Board of Directors of SDBIF back in 1983. So we have a long-standing history of respect and admiration for the work done by this amazing organization. SInce BI survivors often have limited insurance funding and often are bereft of their former employment, financial assistance is critical. Donations to the organization are used thoughtfully to improve the lives of many survivors. There is an annual golf tournament, but the funds it raises can only cover a limited amount of the financial needs of this grassroots organization. For that reason, the help you can provide will help SDBIF to aid additional BI survivors and their families. Many thanks for your consideration.

Five years ago, my wife suffered TBI from an auto accident with aphasia, balance, and cognitive problems. T the same time, I became her sole caretaker. One of the best decisions we made was to get involved with SDBIF and its guiding force Susan Hansen. Through meetings, lectures and exchanging experiences with other survivors and caretakers, we have both not only survived a most unfortunate demand on our lives, but have improved goals for our future. My wife is now in her third year working towards getting her Master’s degree in Rehab. Counseling, and help other survivors. We are very thankful for the support, encouragement, and the understanding that we received from Susan and SDBIF.

I have known a brain injury survivor and his wife for many years who have been involved with San Diego Brain Injury Foundation. One of the key elements seems to the attitude with SDBIF is that they are “survivors” and not “victims”. This helps everyone including friends, family and treatment experts to focus on the road to recovery, however long that road might be. It is an important lesson for life: Believe that no matter what your circumstances, never give up – never give up – never give up.

At the hand of a doctor's care and oversight while I was in back surgery the blood supply to my brain was cut off for 8 hours, a clot was created which my body threw two days late on. Hence a stroke, a brain injury. I literally had to start from the begining to speak, eat, sleep, walk, talk and so on. Learned information was in the form of a cartoon book which lacked anwers for my serios questions of many. Through association with others suviving this eye opening set of circumstances I learned of the San Diego Brain Injuy Foundation. It as as though the lights came, a door opened, and those members, volunteers and the staff of all ages knew tips, tricks and answers to my unasked questions. They were right on the money with concern and care for my well being. SDBIF is an has a wealth of information and support in many of the facets of one's life. SDBIF is one of the bigest regarding Brain Injury in the state of California. Thank goodness for the members, volunteers and the staff for all that they provide for survivors, military and civilian, their families, friends and caregivers!