Trey is not pictured.
Martin Donlan, Attorney, Williams Mullen
“In 1999, our son, Andy, suffered a traumatic brain injury. After three months in intensive care units and months of rehabilitation, we looked to the BIAV for support. As it turned out, our son was eventually able to go to medical school and is now a board-certified specialist in TBI rehabilitation. But every day I think about how important BIAV is to the TBI community—for education on the importance of concussion protocols, support for TBI victims and their families, and advocacy for the development of and funding for TBI rehabilitation and long-term care services.”
While stopped at a light, Trey was rear-ended by a drunk driver who was traveling at more than 50 m.p.h. The 20-year-old was severely injured, sustaining a broken neck and a traumatic brain injury (TBI). For the next four months, he underwent treatment in acute care and rehabilitation facilities. While that period was difficult for Trey and his family, they had no idea of the challenges ahead.
During the weeks that Trey was semi-conscious, the Brain Injury Association of Virginia (BIAV) provided his family with the information, support and referral assistance they needed to get the young man on a path to recovery. Plus, the nonprofit connected Trey with a community-based brain injury program, which allowed him to develop job skills and start to regain his independence. Most importantly, BIAV gave the family hope.
BIAV also introduced the family to Camp Bruce McCoy, where Trey made physical and mental strides while having fun with new friends. In addition, the camp gave his mother, who is his caregiver, a much-needed respite.
Trey went to camp the first year in a wheelchair. Five years later, the wheelchair stays home.
According to Trey and his family, “BIAV changed our lives!”
Give brain injury survivors and their families hope by volunteering or donating to the Brain Injury Association of Virginia today!
