We See Life Through The Lens Of Lived Experience
Our History
The co-founders of Brain Network, Lisa Hirsch and Michele Kauffman, both survivors, met in 2020 when they instantly connected over their shared stories: Years of missed diagnoses. Lives turned upside down. An abysmal lack of resources and community. A lifetime of rehabilitation ahead. They shared a vision for a network of brain injury survivors, medical and rehabilitation experts, and the many friends and family touched by this life-changing condition.
Brain Network is their answer to the isolation and confusion of a brain injury diagnosis. Brain Network is a support network and a platform for advocacy, creating and promoting a standard of care for the diagnosis and treatment of brain injuries. Brain Network envisions a global standard of care for brain injuries including diagnosis and treatment protocols, patient support networks, and robust public awareness of brain injury recognition and prevention. It is also an educational forum where top experts and researchers join webinars and live events to share advancements in the science of brain injury.
Our Vision
At Brain Networks, our vision is to revolutionize the trajectories of acquired brain injury (ABI) survivors by addressing the deficiencies in the care pathway and eliminating the inequalities endured by this often overlooked community.
We envision a world where ABI diagnosis and treatment adhere to a universal standard of excellence, one that not only encompasses medical interventions but also tackles the issue of isolation, fosters supportive communities, empowers and educates survivors, and acts as a bridge to connect marginalized individuals with resources promoting holistic health.
Our commitment is unwavering in forging a future where no one is left behind, where every individual is afforded a second chance at life, equipped with social and economic opportunities, and enriched overall well-being.
Our Values
Strength Based Leadership
We work with an individuals' strengths to assist in solutions to reach their success.
Our resiliant community fosters individual empowerment so that everyone may lead.
Inclusive Respect
Valuing each member's unique perspectives and experiences, we collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including survivors, caregivers, professionals, and allied organizations.
Excellence and Accountability
We uphold high standards and strive for excellence in all aspects of our work. Through accountability and leading by example, we ensure integrity and reliability in our endeavors.
Create Transformation
Embrace the intention of creating a standardized pathway for early diagnosis, clear care path including lifelong rehabilitation for survivors
Continuous Learning
Discover chances to broaden knowledge and leverage it to improve practices. Stay curious and open to feedback; allow data to shape decisions and propel progress.
Advocate for Equity, Inclusion, and Justice
Promote fair opportunities and results for every individual in the ABI community, encompassing survivors, families, and caregivers.
Brain Network Board
Lisa Hirsch
CEO
Medical Liaison Director
Lisa Hirsch is a physician and brain injury survivor with 25 years experience in academic and clinical medicine with a strong background in proactive patient-centred care and patient advocacy.
Marce Evans
Science & Research Advisor
Marce Evans, is an M.D. PhD focusing in neuroscience. She is a passionate patient advocate and an accomplished equestrian and environmental activist.
Michele Kauffman
National Advocacy Director
Washington Chapter Director
Michele Kauffman is two-time brain injury survivor and a community activist leading support groups for over a decade. Michele believes gathering survivors to lift their voices will lead to better-lived experiences for all families who experience brain injury.
Rebecca Riley
Science Advisor
Site Design
Rebecca Riley is a PhD in theoretical physics, private pilot, and EMT.