Survivor Stories

This year marks the 35th anniversary of my accident and as long as it’s been is how long I’ve been asked how it happened, well if you've ever wondered here's what happened. I didn't write this to see how many likes or comments I could get, I did it because I have found writing very therapeutic. This didn't take hours or even weeks to write, it took months because it involved having to think back to a time that I hadn't thought about in a long time.

Jamie Duplechine

We all have a choice to either neglect life and let it pass us by, or embrace it and go along for the ride… I have chosen, despite my physical limitations, to jump back into the driver's seat and move forward with life.

Nicole Marquez

“Falling Down is How We Learn to Rise Up!" At 25, on the night of my best audition, I went home to find that I was locked out of my 5th floor apartment. I went to the roof to see if there was a way in through my window. Looking over the edge is my last memory.

Tessie DiFulco

I have a traumatic brain injury. I was in a coma for 2 ½ months and in the hospital for 4 ½ months with left side paralysis. There my passion shifted. The beginning of my coma resembled an intimate union with God. I had a sense of being nowhere that I had ever been on earth, such peace and tranquility filled me.

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On a day that everything seemed to be going against me, I reached out for some help and was surprised that they actually were there to help me. My wheelchair was broken, and they were able to find a place to fix it for me. They educated me about the trust fund for people with spinal cord injuries and sent me an application. When I had questions about the application, I called back and was given the time and help needed to complete the application. They made me feel important so I am very thankful.

Robi Harsch

Individual with SCI

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The stress of everything is overwhelming. Every place and person I have called has shut the door in my face, and I felt like I was drowning. No one wanted to help until I called you. You have been an angel sent to me who has been incredibly kind, willing to listen and also help find what we need. By sharing your own personal stories, you have shown me that there is hope. Having you to talk to has been such a comfort and I just can’t say thank you enough. This has been an incredibly hard road but now that I have found you, it has become easier because I know there is someone who cares. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, my sweet angel, and thank you for shining some hope back in my life.

Mary Katherine Greer

Caregiver

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My son sustained a spinal cord injury a few years ago, and I still rely on the resources BIALA has to offer to help us live our lives. When I am feeling down and need some encouragement, the BIALA hotline is the first place I reach out to. I feel a sense of relief after I call because of the kindness and compassion I am given. BIALA seems to really care about those they serve, and I am so thankful to have someone to talk to.

Berly Rose

Caregiver

RESOURCE CENTER

Survivor Stories

Robi Harsch

Mary Katherine Greer

Berly Rose