Connecticut's partner in brain injury prevention since 1982

A Plan for Success

Leona is an adult survivor of a childhood traumatic brain injury. She contacted the BIAC Helpline because she was having difficulty communicating with others about the daily struggles that she faces. 

Leona believes that one of her greatest obstacles is not outwardly “appearing” to be disabled to others, and feels as though it makes it difficult for them to understand her situation.

Although Leona has developed many coping strategies, she finds it difficult to organize and stay focused on her goals. With the assistance of a BIAC Brain Injury Specialist, she developed a list of daily reminders that help her to stay centered and positive – especially during stressful and difficult times.

After several phone calls and one in person meeting at the BIAC offices, the Brain Injury Specialists provided Leona with a well-organized, typed list that she is able to print and carry with her throughout her day. She now keeps it with her every day to remember how to succeed. Here is Leona’s list:

• ALWAYS Bring a notebook- Write down a step-by step script of how to reach your goals before a meeting; write down the important pieces of information during the meeting.
• One Step at a Time- Break things down into small steps.
• Go with the Flow- Don’t let the unexpected throw off your focus- stick to the written plan.
• Disclosure- “Sharing is caring, but oversharing can feel overbearing.” Write down a list of what you choose to disclose before you meet with a particular person.
• Be Grateful- Be appreciative for all that you have, and all your victories—no matter how small.

If you, or someone you know, needs help now as the result of a brain injury, contact our helpline at (860)219-0291 or email us at general@biact.org

BIAC Receives $5,000 Grant From Newman's Own Foundation!

BIAC has received a $5,000 grant from Newman’s Own Foundation, the independent foundation created by the late actor and philanthropist, Paul Newman. The Foundation relaunched its mission in 2022 to be 100% focused on helping nourish and transform the lives of children who face adversity.

Since 1982, all profits from the sale of Newman’s Own products, now totaling more than $560 million, have been contributed to thousands of nonprofit organizations worldwide, helping to make the world a better place. 

This funding helps BIAC improve the lives of children who have sustained a brain injury by connecting their family members and caregivers to our Helpline, support groups, vast online resources, and our outreach, education and training programs to help prevent brain injury. We are thrilled that Newman’s Own Foundation sees the value of our programs and services and has provided grants to BIAC since 1995. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, Newman’s Own Foundation! 

Office & Events Manager Position Available

We are looking for a talented, enthusiastic individual with office and event planning experience to join our team! This is a full time, onsite position in our Windsor, CT office, with great benefits. Review the job description, qualifications and how to apply here. (No phone calls, please.)

November is Family Caregivers Month

Celebrated every November, National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) is an opportunity to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities, and increase support for caregivers.

A brain injury affects not only the injured person but the whole family - from financial challenges and social upheaval to isolation and job loss. At BIAC, we deeply value and appreciate all family members who sacrifice so much to care for their loved ones. Caregivers so often put themselves last on the list of things to take care of - so this month, please reach out to support those family caregivers. And caregivers, please remember to reach out for the support you need.

If you are wanting helpful resources for self-care, hints for asking others for help, or finding support for yourself, use the links below for useful, helpful, and practical information, or call the BIAC Helpline at (860)219-0291.

The Brainline resource for Caregivers!

The Family Caregiver Alliance

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month: What You Need to Know About TBI and Epilepsy

TBI is a well-recognized cause of seizures and epilepsy. Sometimes a person may experience a seizure after a TBI, but this may be an isolated incident. Most people do not develop chronic seizures after a brain injury, but some do. Epilepsy is a broad term used for a brain disorder that causes repeated seizures. About 1 in 50 people who have traumatic brain injury will go on to develop epilepsy. Interested in learning more about traumatic brain injury and seizures?  Read further on this topic here

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Brainline - Seizures and TBI

Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center