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As part of Brain Injury Awareness Month, we will be bringing you stories of courage, and perseverance from those with lived experience of a brain injury.  Our first comes from Peter Shepis MS, CRC, CWIC.  He has overcome his life, and now helps others overcome adversity. Here is Peter's story:   I work for the Florida Department of Education, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) as a Program Administrator for Adult Services. Before moving to Florida, I worked in mental health in Arizona for six years. In 2014, I became a community partner work incentives counselor (CWIC) from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). This [...]

On March 5, 2025, Brain Injury Florida had the privilege of attending the Brain Injury Resource Fair at James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa. This event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with individuals who have lived experience with brain injury, as well as the dedicated healthcare professionals and community organizations who support them. Our representatives engaged with veterans, caregivers, and medical staff to share information about Brain Injury Florida’s mission, resources, and support services. By participating in this event, we were able to raise awareness about brain injury, advocate for those affected, and strengthen our partnerships with other organizations [...]

Brain Injury Florida (BIF) is pleased to announce the release of its 2024 Annual Report.  Please read to see all the progress made this past year to improve the quality of life of those with lived experience of a brain injury and their loved ones, as well as the exciting things planned for 2025.

Advancing Support and Awareness for Brain Injury Survivors The Florida Statewide Brain Injury Advisory Board, established through a grant from the Administration for Community Living, continues its critical work in shaping policy and resources for brain injury survivors. This initiative, awarded to the University of Florida BRAIN Center and Brain Injury Florida in cooperation with the Florida Department of Health, aims to create a comprehensive framework to monitor, record, and raise awareness of brain injuries across the state. Starting the Process Shortly after the group's establishment, a survey was established and made available to professionals, caregivers, and persons with lived experience [...]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Timothy Sorady Brain Injury Florida tsorady@braininjuryfl.org 70-Year-Old Veteran Rides 100 Miles to Promote Functional Therapy for Brain Injury Survivors Tallahassee, FL – On March 24, 2025, Ritaann Schultz, a 70-year-old disabled Vietnam Era veteran of the U.S. Navy, will embark on a 100-mile bicycle ride to raise awareness for functional therapy for brain injury survivors. Beginning at the Withlacoochee Trailhead and traveling along the Suncoast Trail, she will complete her journey at the James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa, Florida, arriving on March 26th.  The arrival will coordinate with the VAs’ Walk to Support Brain Injury during Brain [...]

[4 January 2024] — Brain Injury Florida (BIF) proudly announces the successful completion of training on Brain Injury Fundamentals by its first group of dedicated volunteers. This milestone marks the first step towards launching the Brain Injury Information Line (BIIL), a vital resource for individuals affected by brain injuries. The volunteers demonstrated exceptional commitment and enthusiasm throughout the training, acquiring in-depth knowledge and expertise in the fundamental aspects of brain injuries. This training, offered through the Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists, has equipped them with the necessary skills to provide valuable assistance and support to the community. The Brain Injury [...]