BIASC Board Member Joins National Conference Panel to Address the Lifelong Impact of Brain Injury
The Brain Injury Association of South Carolina (BIASC) is proud to announce that board member Dede Norungolo, a longtime advocate for brain injury awareness and survivor support, will be a featured panelist at the Brain Injury Awareness Conference in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. This national event brings together leading experts, medical professionals, policymakers, and individuals affected by brain injury to discuss critical issues surrounding care, research, and advocacy.
A Voice for Brain Injury Survivors
A native of Greenville, S.C., Dede sustained a moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) 25 years ago, which left her with invisible disabilities that continue to shape her daily life. As someone who has personally experienced the long-term effects of brain injury, she will bring both personal insight and professional expertise to the panel, where she will join four other experts to discuss how brain injury is a lifelong, chronic condition—not just a singular event.
Dede’s participation underscores BIASC’s ongoing mission to educate, advocate, and provide resources for the thousands of South Carolinians living with brain injury. Her work, both as an advocate and as a BIASC board member, has helped countless survivors and caregivers navigate the complex journey of recovery and long-term support.
The Importance of Brain Injury Awareness Month
The conference takes place during Brain Injury Awareness Month, an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting resources for individuals and families affected by brain injuries. Across the United States, more than 5.3 million people live with a permanent brain injury-related disability, and yet, the long-term challenges faced by survivors often go unnoticed.
"Brain injury is not a one-time event—it’s an ongoing journey," said Joyce Davis, CEO of BIASC. "We are committed to supporting survivors and their families every step of the way by providing education, resources, and a platform for their voices to be heard."
BIASC’s Commitment to Advocacy and Support
BIASC plays a vital role in advocating for policy changes, healthcare access, and community education to improve the lives of brain injury survivors in South Carolina. From connecting individuals with support groups to promoting research and prevention strategies, BIASC is at the forefront of the movement to ensure brain injury survivors receive the care and recognition they deserve.
As Dede Norungolo steps onto the national stage to share her story, she not only represents BIASC but also the countless individuals whose experiences highlight the urgent need for better awareness, funding, and long-term support.