Brain Injury Recovery Speaker: Virtual Keynotes of Hope by Craig J. Phillips

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Brain Injury Recovery Speaker: Virtual Keynotes of Hope by Craig J. Phillips

Note: Presentation outlines are shared publicly for accessibility and transparency. However, all sessions are protected under my Compensation and Use Policy and may not be recorded, reused, or redistributed without direct, written consent.

Brain Injury Recovery Speaker: Virtual Keynotes of Hope by Craig J. Phillips


“Cherish your visions and dreams as they are the children of your soul: the blueprints of your ultimate achievements.” – Napoleon Hill


 Craig J. Phillips, MRC, BA — brain injury survivor, keynote speaker, and founder of Second Chance to Live — offers virtual presentations that empower survivors through hope, holistic healing, and practical strategies for long-term brain injury recovery.

The Beginning of Hope: Brain Injury Recovery Through Resilience, Faith, and Neuroplasticity 

Second Chance to Live: A Story of God’s Grace, Grit and Endurance Narrative Poem

I am 68 years old. I was in an automobile accident in 1967 and sustained an open skull fracture with right frontal lobe damage, a severe brain bruise, and brain stem involvement at the age of 10. I was not expected to live the night of the accident and remained in a coma for 3 weeks.

I hold a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Kentucky. On February 6, 2007, I created Second Chance to Live to encourage a holistic (body, soul, spirit, mind, and emotions) approach to ongoing brain injury recovery.


Scroll down this page to view a list of my presentations and the places I’ve spoken since June 2020.

Contact Me to Be of Service

My Mission and Vision

My purpose is not only to encourage a holistic and ongoing recovery process for individuals living with brain injuries, but also to impact current and future professionals by modeling a trauma-informed approach rooted in lived experience, resilience, and personal truth.

Testimonies and Endorsements for Second Chance to Live

Resources to Create and Inspire Hope

May what I share through my articles, keynote presentations and eBooks inspire you to create to achieve far beyond what you dream possible in your brain injury recovery.

 Second Chance to Live added to Brain Injury of America’s Speakers Bureau

A Call to Action

2305 Article/Video Presentation Links within 13 Peer Support Categories

464 video presentations from a Select Group of Articles

30 Presentations to Encourage and Empower Brain Injury Recovery Support

Second Chance to Live 19 eBooks available on Amazon

45 Posters to Encourage and Inspire Hope

Testimonies and Endorsements for Second Chance to Live

To Schedule Mr. Phillips to Present to your Group or Event


Process, Journey and Evolution

Traumatic brain injury, car accident, in 1967 when I was 10 years old. Open skull fracture, right frontal lobe damage, a severe brain bruise with brain stem involvement. Coma for 3 weeks. Fractured left femur (thigh bone), traction 7 weeks, Spica (full-body) cast for 5 months. 2 EEG’s, battery of psycho social testing. Was not supposed to succeed beyond high school academically. Learned how to walk, talk, read, write and speak in complete sentences. Tutored at home in 5th grade. Mainstreamed back into elementary school in the 6th grade. Graduated on time with my high school class in 1975. Went on to obtain my undergraduate degree in 10 years (2 universities, 1 community college).  I then went on to 0btained my master’s degree (2 graduate schools) Rehabilitation Counseling. Credentials CRC (Certified Rehabilitation Counselor), 20-year history of getting and losing jobs, client with 2 different State Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (Florida and North Carolina). 2nd Vocational Rehabilitation evaluation determined that I was not employable. Applied 3 times for SSDI, the 3rd application approved. For many years I felt like someone all dressed up with nowhere to go. A lot of disappointments and discouragement despite all my best efforts to succeed academically and vocationally.

But, I am glad that I did not give up on finding a way to use my gifts, talents and abilities.


I created Second Chance to Live 18 years ago, on February 6, 2007, 7 years after my 2nd Depart. of Voc. Rehab  evaluated that I was employable and my 3rd SSDI application was approved. 


  168 Organizations, Rehabilitation Hospitals, Universities and Associations


During 18 years Second Chance to Live has benefited lives in the following Countries

  United States, European Union, Brazil, Canada, United Kingdom, Spain, Ireland, Russia, China, Hong Kong, India, France, Finland, Denmark,  Romania, Hungary, Poland, Czechia, Croatia, Indonesia, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, Greece, Philippines, Japan, Serbia, Slovenia, Portugal, Morocco, St. Lucia, Costa Rica, Egypt, Singapore, Saudi Arabia,  Myanmar (Burma), Pakistan, Switzerland, Thailand, Israel, Turkey, Australia, New Zealand, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Netherlands, Ghana, and South Africa


Among the places spoken and will be speaking at publicly

  Cleveland Clinic, Medstar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Penn Presbyterian Hospital, Overland Park Rehabilitation Hospital, Adventist Rehabilitation Hospital, Inova Loudon Outpatient Specialty Rehabilitation Hospital, Magee Rehabilitation Hospital, Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital, Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital, Carolina’s Rehab, Colorado Department of Education, University of North Dakota, University of North Carolina — Chapel Hill, Harvard University Synapse, University of California at Berkley Synapse, Columbia University Synapse, Synapse National Conference, NeuroRestorative-Charlotte, Brown University Synapse, Temple University Synapse, University of Michigan Synapse, University of California – Irvine Synapse, University of Pittsburgh Synapse, University of California – Davis Synapse and Johns Hopkins University Synapse and various State Brain Injury Associations


Below is a list of Keynote Presentations and Discussion Topics

Workshop Topics Designed to Encourage and Empower Purpose and Hope

You Are Not Crazy. You have an Invisible Disability Discussion Topic

Yes, I am Disabled, but Don’t Count Me Out because…! Discussion Topic

Learning to Accept Ourselves when Other People Can’t or Won’t Discussion Topic

Creating Practical Hope that Lasts in Our Lives through the Power of Identification Discussion Topic

Embracing Change: A Three-Stage Journey to Learning and Creating Success Discussion Topic

Navigating Life’s Railroad Switch — Finding Purpose and Passion After Brain Injury Discussion Topic

Living and Thriving Beyond Brain Injury Awareness to Create a Good Life for Ourselves Discussion Topic

Empowering Ongoing Brain Injury Recovery: 9 Key Concepts and Principles for Success Discussion Topic

Don’t Let Anyone tell You, You Aren’t Enough Because…You are Smart, Intuitive and Courageous Discussion Topic


 

Keynote Presentations Designed to Encourage and Empower Purpose and Hope

My TED TALK Craig J. Phillips MRC, BA Second Chance to Live

Finding Purpose and not Giving Up after Brain Injury Presentation

Making Our Lives Magical after Brain Injury and Stroke Keynote Presentation

Hope and the Progression of Living our Best Life after Brain Injury Presentation

Facing Adversity and Having Options When Life Does Not Make Sense after Brain Injury Presentation

Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke Keynote Presentation

12 Ways to Enhance Our Lives, Well-Beings and Relationships after a Brain Injury Presentation

Brain Injury and The Power of “I CAN” in an Ongoing Brain Injury Recovery Process Presentation 

Living and Thriving Beyond Brain Injury Awareness to Create a Good Life for Ourselves Presentation

Getting Comfortable in Our “Own Skin” Living with a Brain Injury and an Invisible Disability Presentation

The Importance of Self-Advocacy after a Brain Injury to Own the Power in Our Mind, Body, Spirit, Soul and Emotions Keynote Presentation

Navigating Life After a Traumatic Brain Injury: Embracing Reality and the Journey to Acceptance Presentation

Celebrating Goals and Dreams in the Now, Overcoming Obstacles, Odds and Impacting Generations Presentation

Hope and Purpose after a Brain Injury after a Brain Injury, a Stroke or a Spinal Cord Injury Keynote Presentation

Some Things to Consider so We Don’t Stay Stuck Living with a Brain Injury and an Invisible Disability Presentation

Finding Freedom from Feeling Alone, Isolated, Alienated, Intimidated and Diminished Living with a Brain injury and an Invisible Disability Presentation

Goals for Healthy Living in 2025 and The Importance of Self-Advocacy after a Brain Injury to Own the Power in Our Mind, Body, Spirit, Soul and Emotions Keynote Presentation

Keynote Presentations sharing My Process Designed to Encourage and Empower Purpose and Hope

Second Chance to Live and Succeeding Beyond my Special Needs from 10 Years of Age Presentation

Comprehensive History of Second Chance to Live — Answering the Call that never Came Presentation

Keynote Presentations Designed to Encourage and Empower Groups and Organizations

Living with Long Covid-19 Invisible Disability — Hope, Encouragement and Support Presentation

Empowering Current and Future Leaders in Brain Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation to Empower Self-advocacy in Individuals Living with Brain Injuries Presentation


 Places Spoken and Presentations

  1. On August 18, 2025 I will be speaking on the topic of “More Than a Diagnosis: What My Journey with Brain Injury Taught Me About Real Advocacy” to the Columbia University Synapse Chapter in New York City through Zoom. 
  2. On June 11, 2025, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury and The Power of “I CAN” in an Ongoing Brain Injury Recovery Process Presentation ” to the Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital Edwin Shaw “Head’s up No Boundaries Brain Injury Support Group” in Copley, Ohio through Zoom.
  3. On May 1, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Navigating Life After a Traumatic Brain Injury: Embracing Reality and the Journey to Acceptance Presentation” to the Cleveland Clinic Medically Complex Support Group – Cardiac, COVID, Cancer and Respiratory in Copley, Ohio through Zoom.
  4. On April 20, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Hope and the Progression of Living our Best Life after Brain Injury Presentation” the the Second Annual Future Leaders in Brain Injury Conference at Harvard University to their undergraduate students in Cambridge, Massachusetts through Zoom. 
  5. On April 10, 2024, I will be giving my presentation, “Making Our Lives Magical One Day at a Time after Brain Injury and Stroke Presentation to the Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital Aim High Support Group in York, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  6. On April 7, 2024, I will be giving my presentation, “Empowering Current and Future Leaders in Brain Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation to Empower Self-advocacy in Individuals Living with Brain Injuries Presentation” to the Harvard University Undergraduate Synapse Chapter through zoom.
  7. On March 24, 2024, I will be giving my presentation “Empowering Current and Future Leaders in Brain Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation to Empower Self-advocacy in Individuals Living with Brain Injuries” to the leadership founding new Synapse National Chapters from Brown University, Temple University, University of Michigan, University of California – Irvine, University of Pittsburgh, University of California – Davis and Johns Hopkins University through Zoom.
  8. On March 20, 2024, I will be giving an in service to PT.’s, OT’s, ST’s, Nurses and support staff by the title of “Empowering Current and Future Leaders in Brain Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation to Empower Self-advocacy in Individuals Living with Brain Injuries” at the Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital, in York, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  9. On March 17, 2024, I will be giving my presentation, “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury Keynote Presentation” to the Harvard University Synapse Chapter, in Cambridge, Massachusetts through Zoom.
  10. On March 13, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Navigating Life After a Traumatic Brain Injury: Embracing Reality and the Journey to Acceptance Presentation” to the Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital Edwin Shaw — Heads Up No Boundaries Brain Injury Support Group, in Copley, Ohio though Zoom.
  11. On March 5, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Making Our Lives Magical One Day at a Time after Brain Injury and Stroke Presentation” ­to the Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association in Chattanooga, Tennessee through Zoom. 
  12. On March 2, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope After Brain Injury” at the “Navigating Neurotrauma Conference” at Columbia University Synapse Chapter in New York, NY through Zoom.
  13. On February 27, 2025, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and not Giving Up Keynote Presentation” to the Center for Traumatic Brain Injury Research Kessler Foundation in East Hanover, New Jersey through Zoom.
  14. On January 14, 2025, I will be speaking on the topic of “Goals for Healthy Living in 2025” to the Fayetteville, North Carolina Brain Injury Support Group, in Fayetteville, North Carolina through Zoom.
  15. On October 23, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Facing Adversity and Having Options When Life Does Not Make Sense after Brain Injury” to the Brain Injury Awareness, Healing and Support group in Norfolk Nebraska through Zoom.
  16. On October 9, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals, Repetition and Creating Hope After Brain Injury Presentation” to the Aim High Support Group in York, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  17. On July 9, 2024, I will be giving my presentation, “The Importance of Self-Advocacy after a Brain Injury to Own the Power in Our Mind, Body, Spirit, Soul and Emotions Keynote Presentation” to the Fayetteville, North Carolina Brain Injury Support Group, in Fayetteville, North Carolina through Zoom.
  18. On May 1, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Navigating Life After a Traumatic Brain Injury: Embracing Reality and the Journey to Acceptance” to the Cleveland Clinic Medically Complex Support Group – Cardiac, COVID, Cancer and Respiratory in Copley, Ohio through Zoom.
  19. On, April 27, 2024, I will be giving my presentation, “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” on Rob Baugh’s “Life Re-Wired — The Brain Injury Podcast”.
  20. On April 20, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Hope and the Progression of Living our Best Life after Brain Injury Presentation” to the Second Annual Future Leaders in Brain Injury Conference at Synapse National’s 2024 Future Leaders in Brain Injury Conference through zoom.
  21. On April 10, 2024, I will be giving my presentation, “Making Our Lives Magical One Day at a Time after Brain Injury and Stroke Presentation to the Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital Aim High Support Group in York, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  22. On April 7, 2024, I will be giving my presentation, “Empowering Current and Future Leaders in Brain Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation to Empower Self-advocacy in Individuals Living with Brain Injuries Presentation” to the Harvard University Undergraduate Synapse Chapter through zoom.
  23. On March 24, 2024, I will be giving my presentation “Empowering Current and Future Leaders in Brain Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation to Empower Self-advocacy in Individuals Living with Brain Injuries” to the leadership founding new Synapse National Chapters from Brown University, Temple University, University of Michigan, University of California – Irvine, University of Pittsburgh, University of California – Davis and Johns Hopkins University through Zoom.
  24. On March 20, 2024, I will be giving an in service to PT.’s, OT’s, ST’s, Nurses and support staff by the title of “Empowering Current and Future Leaders in Brain Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation to Empower Self-advocacy in Individuals Living with Brain Injuries” at the Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital, in York, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  25. On March 17, 2024, I will be giving my presentation, “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury” to the Harvard University Synapse Chapter, in Cambridge, Massachusetts through Zoom.
  26. On March 13, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Navigating Life After a Traumatic Brain Injury: Embracing Reality and the Journey to Acceptance” ­to the Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital Edwin Shaw — Heads Up No Boundaries Brain Injury Support Group, in Copley, Ohio though Zoom.
  27. On March 5, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of “Making Our Lives Magical One Day at a Time after Brain Injury and Stroke Presentation” ­to the Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association in Chattanooga, Tennessee through Zoom. 
  28. On March 2, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope After Brain Injury” at the “Navigating Neurotrauma Conference” at Columbia University Synapse Chapter in New York, NY through Zoom.
  29. On February 18, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of, “ Hope and the Progression of Living our Best Life after Brain Injury” to the Harvard Undergraduate Synapse Chapter in Cambridge, Massachusetts through Zoom.
  30. On February 1, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to NeuroRestorative Charlotte – Brain Injury, Behavioral Health in Charlotte, North Carolina through Zoom.
  31. On January 9, 2024, I will be speaking on the topic of  “Celebrating Goals and Dreams in the Now, Overcoming Obstacles, Odds and Impacting Generations Presentation” to the Fayetteville, North Carolina Brain Injury Support Group, in Fayetteville, North Carolina through Zoom.
  32. On December 20, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of “Celebrating Goals and Dreams in the Now, Overcoming Obstacles, Odds and Impacting Generations Presentation” to the Brain injury Services — Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, Virginia through Zoom
  33. On December 5, 2023 I will be speaking on the topic of  “Celebrating Goals and Dreams in the Now, Overcoming Obstacles, Odds and Impacting Generations Presentation” to the Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association state wide brain injury support group in Chattanooga, Tennessee through Zoom. 
  34. On November 7, 2023 I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope After Brain Injury Injury and Stroke” to the Inova Loudon Outpatient Specialty Rehabilitation Hospital in Leesburg, Virginia through Zoom.
  35. On October 7, 2023  I will be speaking on the topic of “Empowering Current and Future Professionals in Brain Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation” to students from Harvard University and other Universities that are part of Synapse National.
  36. On September 26, 2023 I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury” to the Brain Injury Association of Virginia in Richmond, Virginia through Zoom.
  37. On September 12, 2023 I will be speaking on the topic of “Living and Thriving Beyond Brain Injury Awareness to Create a Good Life for Ourselves” to the Fayetteville, North Carolina Brain Injury Support Group, in Fayetteville, North Carolina through Zoom.
  38.  On August 19, 2023 I will be speaking on topic of  “Somethings to Consider so We Don’t Stay Stuck Living with the Impact of a Brain Injury and an Invisible Disability “to the Harvard University Synapse Brain Injury Support Group in Cambridge, Massachusetts through Zoom.
  39. On August 9, 2023 I will be speaking on the topic of “Somethings to Consider so We Don’t Stay Stuck Living with the Impact of a Brain Injury and an Invisible Disability “ to the Brain Injury Services Adapt  Club house in Alexandria, Virginia through Zoom.
  40. On August 2, 2023 I will be speaking on the topic of “Somethings to Consider so We Don’t Stay Stuck Living with the Impact of a Brain Injury and an Invisible Disability“ to the Brain Injury Association of Louisiana in Mandeville, Louisiana through Zoom.
  41. On June 20, 2023 I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Freedom from Feeling Alone, Isolated, Alienated, Intimidated and Diminished Living with a Brain Injury and an Invisible Disability”  to the Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association in Chattanooga, Tennessee through Zoom. 
  42. On Mary 16, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Charlotte Area Brain Injury Network (CABIN) in Charlotte, NC through Zoom.
  43. On May 11, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of “Hope and the Progression of Living our Best Life after Brain Injury” to the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina statewide Support Group in Raleigh, North Carolina through Zoom.
  44. On May 3, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Hope and the Progression of Living Our Best Life after a Brain Injury” to the COVID-19 Survivor Support Group at the Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital Edwin Shaw in Copley, Ohio though Zoom.
  45. On April 22, 2023, I will be a panelist at the, “Synapse National Future Leaders in Brain Injury Conference!” a nationwide conference through zoom.  Future Leaders in Brain Injury Conference, “Navigating the Healthcare System as a Person with a Brain Injury: Community Member Panel” hosted by Synapse National — the parent organization of all the University Synapse Chapters through out the United States.
  46.  On April 14, 2023, I will be speaking to the Seminole Spirit Speech and Language Support Group in Woodstock, Georgia, on the topic of “How I Use Neuroplasticity to Empower my Life” through zoom.
  47. On April 4, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Hope and the Progression of Living Our Best Life after a Brain Injury” to the  Charlotte Area Brain Injury Network (CABIN)  in Charlotte, North Carolina through Zoom.
  48. On March 22, 2023, I will be giving an in service presentation “Believing in Ourselves through Self-Advocacy — A Guide to Owning Our Power after Brain Injury and Stroke Presentation” to PT, OT, ST, Nurses and other staff at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in York, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  49. On March 14, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of “Living with a Brain Injury and Finding Freedom from Feeling Stuck in Time Presentation” to the Fayetteville, North Carolina Brain Injury Support Group, in Fayetteville, North Carolina through Zoom.
  50. On March 8, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of “Hope and the Progression of Living Our Best Life after Brain Injury.” to the Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital Edwin Shaw in Copley, Ohio though Zoom
  51. On March 5, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Brain Injury and The Power of “I CAN” in an Ongoing Brain Injury Recovery Process Presentation” in a conference at Columbia University in New York, New York through Zoom.
  52. On February 27, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of “Acceptance and Creating our New Normal after Brain Injury and Stroke” to Penn Medicine — University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  53. On February 15, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Medstar National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington, DC through Zoom.
  54. On January 18, 2023, I will be giving a webinar on the topic of “12 Ways to Enhance Our Lives, Well-Beings and Relationships after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Association of Vermont in Waterbury, Vermont through Go to Meeting.
  55. On January 10, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury and The Power of “I CAN” in an Ongoing Brain Injury Recovery Process Presentation” to the Fayetteville, North Carolina Brain Injury Support Group, in Fayetteville, North Carolina through Zoom.
  56. On January 5, 2023, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury and The Power of “I CAN” in an Ongoing Brain Injury Recovery Process Presentation” to the Brooks Rehabilitation Neuro Day Treatment Program in Jacksonville, Florida through Zoom. 
  57. On December 21, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury, Stress, Anxiety, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years” to the Brain Injury Service — Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, Virginia through Zoom.
  58. On December 14, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic “Living with a Brain Injury — I Can Not Do Everything, But Still I Can Do Something” to the Gateway Clubhouse in Raleigh, North Carolina through Zoom.
  59. On December 13, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury, Stress, Anxiety, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years” to the Brain Injury Associations of Georgia’s Veteran Brain Injury Support Group in Cumming, Georgia through Zoom.
  60. On December 13, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury, Stress, Anxiety, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years” to the Brain Injury Network of Dallas, in Plano, Texas through Zoom.
  61. On December 12, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury — Why Do I Feel so Misunderstood and Shunned?” to the Brain Injury Association of Iowa, in Iowa City, Iowa through Zoom.
  62. On December 8, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury, Stress, Anxiety, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years” to the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina state wide support group in Raleigh, NC through Zoom.
  63. On December 6, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Brain Injury, Stress, Anxiety, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years” to the Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association in Chattanooga, Tennessee through Zoom. 
  64. On November 22, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the University of California, at Berkeley in Berkeley, California through Zoom.
  65. On November 19, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts through Zoom.
  66. On October 28, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Seminole Spirit Brain Injury Support Group in Woodstock, Georgia, through Zoom.
  67. On October 26, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “12 Ways to enhance our Lives, Well-beings and Relationships after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Services Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, Virginia through Zoom.
  68. On October 11, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association in Chattanooga, Tennessee through Zoom. 
  69. On October 5, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Acceptance and Creating our New Normal after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota through Zoom.
  70. On September 29, 2022, I will be speaking on “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina in Raleigh, North Carolina through Zoom.
  71. On September 23, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Cultivating Healthy Relationships after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brooks Rehabilitation Brain Injury Clubhouse in Jacksonville, Florida through Zoom.
  72. On August 19, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Comprehensive History of Second Chance to Live — Answering the Call that never Came Presentation” to the Brooks Rehabilitation Brain Injury Clubhouse in Jacksonville, Florida through Zoom.
  73. On August 9, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Living with a Brain injury — I Can Not Do Everything, But Still I Can Do Something” to the Fayetteville Brain Injury Support Group in Fayetteville, North Carolina through Zoom.
  74. On August 9, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association in Chattanooga, Tennessee through Zoom.
  75. On August 3, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Association of Louisiana in Mandeville, Louisiana through Zoom.
  76. On July 27, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Cultivating Healthy Relationships after Brain Injury and Stroke” to Brooks Rehabilitation Brain Injury Clubhouse in Jacksonville, Florida through Zoom.
  77. On July 15, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of,  “Living with a Brain Injury and an Invisible Disability — How are You Defining Success?” to the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts in Pittsfield, Massachusetts through Zoom.
  78. On June 30, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Cultivating Healthy Relationships after Brain Injury and Stroke” to Brooks Rehabilitation Brain Injury Clubhouse in Jacksonville, Florida through Zoom.
  79. On June 29, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the BIND: Brain Injury Network of Dallas in Plano, Texas through Zoom.
  80. On June 22, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Acceptance and Creating Our New Normal after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Alamo Head Injury Association in San Antonio, Texas through Zoom.
  81. On June 15, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Living with a Brain Injury and an Invisible Disability — How are You Defining Success?” to the Brain Injury Services Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, Virginia through Zoom.
  82. On June 14, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of ‘Living with a Brain Injury, an Invisible Disability and Change after a Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Fayetteville Brain Injury Support Group in Fayetteville, NC through Zoom.
  83. On May 16, 2022, I  will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Association of Georgia in Cumming, Georgia through Zoom.
  84. On April 6, 2022, I spoke on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Association of New York State in Albany, New York through Zoom.
  85. On March 28, 2022, i will be speaking on the topic of “Cultivating Healthy Relationships after Brain Injury and Stroke Presentation” to the Head Injury Association of Northern Nevada, in Reno, Nevada. through Zoom.
  86. On March 25, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to Carolina’s Rehabilitation — Charlotte in Charlotte, North Carolina in person.
  87. On March 21, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Believing in Ourselves through Self-Advocacy — A Guide to Owning Our Power after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Council on Brain Injury CoBI ReDiscoverU Sessions in Paoli, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  88. On March 16, 2022, I  will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Medstar National Rehab Hospital in Washington, DC through Zoom.
  89. On March 16, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the 2nd Annual Brain Injury Awareness Day Virtual Event through Zoom, hosted by Amy Zellmer Editor-in-chief of The Brain Health Magazine.
  90. On March 14, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Association of Iowa, in Iowa City, Iowa through Zoom.
  91. On March 9, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Believing in Ourselves through Self-Advocacy — A Guide to Owning Our Power after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital, Edwin Shaw Heads Up No Boundaries Group, in Copley, Ohio through Zoom.
  92. On March 4, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Seminole Spirit Brain injury /Aphasia Support Group in Woodstock, Georgia via Zoom.
  93. On February 21, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stoke”  to the Council on Brain Injury CoBI ReDiscoverU Sessions in Paoli, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  94. On February 17, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Adventist Rehabilitation Hospital at Takoma Park in Takoma Park, Maryland through Zoom.
  95. On February 16, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Making Our Lives Magical One Day at a Time after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Encompass Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital “Aim High Group” in York, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  96. On February 14, 2022, I will be speaking on the topic of “Acceptance and Creating Our New Normal after Brain injury and Stroke” to the Council on Brain Injury CoBI ReDiscoverU Sessions in Paoli, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  97. On February 9, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to Soar — Empowering Individuals with Differing Abilities in Appleton, Wisconsin through Zoom.
  98. On February 2, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Magee Rehabilitation Hospital– Jefferson Health in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  99. On January 26, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the North Dakota Brain Injury Network in Grand Forks, North Dakota through Zoom.
  100. On January 24, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain injury and Stroke” to the Council on Brain Injury CoBI ReDiscoverU Sessions in Paoli, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  101. On January 19, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital Edwin Shaw Stroke Support Group in Copley, Ohio through Zoom.
  102. On January 12, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Acceptance and Creating Our New Normal after Brain Injury and Stroke”  to the Brain Injury Association of Vermont in Waterbury, Vermont though Zoom.
  103. On January 11, 2022 I will be speaking on the topic of “Making Your Life Magical One Day at a Time after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Fayetteville Brain Injury Support Group in Fayetteville, North Carolina through Zoom.
  104. On December 15, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of “12 Ways to Enhance Our Lives, Well-Beings and Relationships after a Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Services Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, Virginia through Zoom.
  105. On December 8, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to SOAR — Empowering Individuals with Differing Abilities in Appleton, Wisconsin through Zoom.
  106. On December 7, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke” to The Denbigh House in Newport News, Virginia though Zoom.
  107. On November 15, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of ““Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Shadyside Brain Injury Support Group in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania through Zoom.
  108. On November 10, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of “Believing in Ourselves through Self-Advocacy — A Guide to Owning Our Power”to the Brooks Rehabilitation Brain Injury Clubhouse in Jacksonville, Florida through Zoom.
  109. On November 4, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of “Believing in Ourselves through Self-Advocacy — A Guide to Owning Our Power”to the Brooks Rehabilitation Brain Injury Clubhouse in Jacksonville, Florida through Zoom.
  110. On November 2, 2021 I will be speaking on “Acceptance and Creating Our New Normal after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Brain Injury Association of Tennessee in Nashville, TN through Zoom.
  111. On October 27, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “Believing in Ourselves through Self-Advocacy — A Guide to Owning Our Power”  through Zoom to the Brain Injury Services — Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, VA.
  112. On October 20, 2021, I will be speaking to the Encompass Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital in York, Pennsylvania via Zoom on the topic of “Neurplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke”
  113. On October 12, 2021, I will be speaking to the BIND: Brain Injury Network of Dallas Clubhouse in Plano, Texas through Zoom on the topic of “Neurplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke”.
  114. On October 11, 2021, I will be speaking to the Vermont’s 33rd Annual Brain Injury Conference in Waterbury, Vermont through Zoom on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke”
  115. On October 5, 2021, I will be speaking to the Brain Injury Association of Tennessee Brain Injury Support Group in Nashville, Tennessee through Zoom on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury”.
  116. On October 4, 2021, I will be speaking to the Overland Park Regional Hospital TBI – Concussion Support Group in the Kansas City Metro area through Zoom on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury”.
  117. On September 30, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” through Zoom to the Colorado Department of Education Kaleidoscope Conference in Denver, Colorado.
  118. On September 20, 2021, at 11 am I will be speaking on the topic, “The Journey, Healing Through Self Expression” through Zoom to the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts in Westborough, MA
  119. On September 20, 2021, at 7 pm I will be speaking on the topic of “Understanding Invisible Disabilities, Acceptance and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” through Zoom to the SHADYSIDE Brain Injury Support Group in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
  120. On September 14, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke” through Zoom to the  18th Annual IBICA — International Brain Injury Clubhouse Alliance Virtual Conference. 
  121. On September 8, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “Creating a New Normal — Acceptance and Creating Hope after Brain Injury” to the Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital, Edwin Shaw, in Copley, Ohio.
  122. On September 1, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of “Understanding Invisible Disabilities, Acceptance and Creating a New Normal after Brain Injury and Stroke” to the Encompass Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital in York, Pennsylvania.
  123. On August 11, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities Acceptance and Creating Our New Normal Presentation North Dakota Brain Injury Network  through Zoom to the North Dakota Brain Injury Network in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
  124. On August 9, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of, Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities “Acceptance and Creating a New Normal” through Zoom to Rehab Without Walls in High Point, North Carolina.
  125. On August 6, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of, “Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities — Acceptance and Creating a New Normal” through Zoom to Brooks Rehabilitation Clubhouse, in Jacksonville, Florida.
  126. On July 26, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities “Acceptance and Creating a New Normal” through Zoom to the TBI Research Initiative — Department of Neurology, Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group – Penn Medicine.
  127. On July 21, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” through Zoom to University of North Carolina Family Support Program in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
  128. On June 25, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of, “I Am More than My Brain Injury” through Zoom to the Brain Injury Association of South Carolina Brain Injury Support Group Leaders Annual Workshop in Columbia, South Carolina.
  129. On June 16, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “I Am More than My Brain Injury — Defining and Creating My New Normal” through Zoom to the members of the Brain Injury Service Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, Virginia.
  130. On June 14, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” through Zoom to the members of Rehab without Walls in High Point, North Carolina.
  131. On May 27, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of, “I Am More than My Brain Injury” through Zoom to the members of the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina Brain Injury Support Group in Raleigh, North Carolina.
  132. On May 14, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of, “I Am More than My Brain Injury” to the members of the Seminole Spirit Brain injury Support Group in Woodstock, Georgia via Zoom.
  133. On April 13, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “I Am More Than My Brain Injury” to the members of the Fayetteville Brain Injury Support Group in Fayetteville, North Carolina via Zoom..
  134. On April 9, 2021, I will be speaking to the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope After Brain Injury and Stroke” Zoom Presentation” to the members of the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts in Westborough, MA
  135. On April 2, 2021, I will be speaking to the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” to the members of the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts in Westborough, MA.
  136. On March 23, 2021, I will be speaking to the topic of, “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope After Brain Injury and Stroke” Zoom Presentation” to the members, staff and providers of Beechwood NeuroRehab Community-Integrated Brain Injury Specialty Programs in Langhorne, PA.
  137. On March 19, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury” with the Seminole Spirit Brain Injury Group in Woodstock, Georgia via Zoom.
  138. On March 18, 2021, I will be speaking to the topic of, “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” to the members, staff and providers of Beechwood NeuroRehab Community-Integrated Brain Injury Specialty Programs in Langhorne, PA.
  139. On March 17, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury” with the Brain Injury Association of Indiana  in Indianapolis, IN.
  140. On March 11, 2021, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” with the Empower House in Davenport, Iowa via Zoom.
  141. On March 10, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” with the Side by Side Brain Injury Clubhouse in Mountain, GA via Zoom.
  142. On February 17, 2021, I will be continuing the conversation on Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities — The People We Interact with as Individuals with Invisible Disabilities Part 2″ via Zoom with the Brain Injury Services Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, VA.
  143. On February 10, 2021 I will be speaking on the topic of, Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities — The People We Interact with as Individuals with Invisible Disabilities Part 1″ with the Brain Injury Services Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, VA.
  144. On February 5, 2021, I gave the presentation, “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” to the The BridgeLine Clubhouse in Charlottesville, Virginia.
  145. On February 3, 2021 I am scheduled to give this presentation, “Stroke, Brain Injury and the Benefits of Neuroplasticity” to the  Brain Injury Association of Louisiana. Support group in Mandeville, Louisiana.
  146. On January 19, 2021 I am scheduled to give this presentation “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” via Zoom to the BIND: Brain Injury Network of Dallas Clubhouse in Plano, Texas.
  147. On December 14, 2020, I presented the message of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” to the Head Injury Association of Northern Nevada, in Reno, Nevada. via Zoom.
  148. On December 7, 2020, Brain Injury Association of Colorado, Craig J. Phillips was featured in the December 2020 publication of their publication, HeadSTRONG, Volume 4 • Issue 4 • December 2020. To read the publication click on this link: HeadSTRONG. Mr. Phillips is spotlighted on page 5 of the publication. 12,000 subscribers to the publication.
  149. On November 18, 2020 I presented the message of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” to the Adapt Clubhouse in Alexandria, VA.
  150. On November 9, 2020 I presented the message of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury”, to the Beacon House in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
  151. On November 4, 2020 and November 5, 2020 I presented the message of “Stroke, Brain Injury and the Benefits of Neuroplasticity” via Zoom at the Brooks Rehab Clubhouse in Jacksonville, Florida.
  152. On October 28, 2020 and October 29, 2020 I presented the message of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” via Zoom at the Brooks Rehab Clubhouse in Jacksonville, Florida.
  153. On October 26, 2020, I was interviewed by Mr. Don Crosby for the Sound Behavior Podcast. To listen to the podcast, click on this link. Given a Second Chance to Live – Episode 029 Craig Phillips
  154. On October 18, 2020 I was interviewed by Donna O’Donnell Figurski on her radio program “Another Fork in the Road” on the Brain Injury Radio Network. Show title: Another Fork in the Road: Craig J. Phillips – Survivor of Brain Injury. To listen to the radio program, click on this link: Another Fork in the Road: Craig J. Phillips – Survivor of Brain Injury
  155. On September 28, 2020, I was asked by Lee Moss, executive director, to present the message, “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” Zoom Presentation” with the Brain Injury Association of Mississippi support group via Zoom.
  156. On September 2, 2020, I was asked by Kimberly Hill, executive director, to present the message of “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury Zoom Presentation” to the Brain Injury Association of Louisiana support group via Zoom.
  157. On June 2, 2020, I was asked by Ellen Morales, facilitator of Fayetteville Brain Injury Support Group to present the message of, “Finding Purpose after Brain Injury” Zoom Presentation via Zoom.

Testimonies and Endorsements from the Presentations

Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts

Finding Purpose after Brain Injury and Stroke Presentation

Hi Craig,

I just wanted to thank you so much for taking the time to present to our group on Monday. I got a lot of positive feedback about your presentation and as you probably could tell, folks really enjoyed having you there. It was a breath of fresh air for us. I can tell you’ve put a lot of thought and effort into your talks which is admirable, and you certainly did a better job of keeping people engaged for an extended period of time than I can! I have sent our folks your information and we hope to have you back again sometime soon.

Best regards,

Tasnia Iqbal M2 | Carver College of Medicine
Brain Injury Specialist | Community NeuroRehab

Celebrating Second Chance to Live 15th Anniversary with Available Resources

Congratulations, Craig!!  You have so much to be proud of and to look forward to.  It is so wonderful how you have devoted yourself so holistically to Second Chance to Live, and there are undoubtedly countless individuals and families who you have touched and influenced positively.  I feel so fortunate to be one of those individuals!

Sarah Kurowski, MOT, OTR/L Occupational Therapist Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of York

Colorado Department of Education 2021 Kaleidoscope Conference

Craig Phillips, of Second Chance to Live, presented at our annual facility schools conference. His session, “Finding Purpose After Brain Injury” provided helpful information to our educators about the impact of a brain injury and how to still thrive in life. – The Office of Facility Schools, Colorado Department of Education

Testimonial Following my “I Am More Than My Brain Injury” Zoom Presentation to the Fayetteville Brain Injury Support Group

Craig Phillips has the ability to easily relate most topics to his own journey of living with a brain injury, and then makes others feel more comfortable reflecting on and sharing their own experiences with brain injury. He helps survivors feel that they too can be resilient and manage their struggles.  For this reason, he was the best person to present on: “I am more than my brain injury.”

Craig masterfully utilizes quotes that he has embraced from world leaders, writers, artists, politicians, etc. to further get his message across.  He is always very authentic, knowledgeable, and inspirational.

I would definitely recommend him as a presenter to a support group, professional college class, community non -profit program, etc.

Ellen Scherling-Morales MA,OTR/L, CRC, CBIS (Facilitator of the Fayetteville Brain Injury Support Group who asked me to present to her Group)


Jeff McDaniel — Board of Directors, HIANN — Head Injury Association of Northern Nevada

Presentation: Finding Purpose after Brain Injury

Thanks so much for taking the time to spend with the Head Injury Association of Northern Nevada and almost 30 of our members. Your journey has been amazing and I personally want to thank you for taking the opportunity to discuss that journey and each of our member’s specific questions and history with brain injury. You have an amazing story to tell and have persevered and continue to grow in-spite of the all the obstacles that have been presented to you. You never cease to amaze me. Keep-up the great work and continue to inspire others that have had traumatic brain injuries.

Jeff McDaniel Board of Directors, HIANN —  Head Injury Association of Northern Nevada


Stephanie Lloyd — Adapt Clubhouse Brain Injury Services Brain Injury

Presentation: Finding Purpose after Brain Injury

Thank you for visiting our virtual units at Adapt Clubhouse! It has been a true delight hearing your story of perseverance that many of our members found comfort in. Several people from our group have mentioned the similar difficulties in finding employment and appreciated your experience to help with their own understanding. Your positivity has touched our clubhouse, especially during this virtual time. Most importantly, it has been helpful to be reminded that no one individual should be compared to another – we are all unique in our interests and abilities, all which empower us to move forward, especially when living with a brain injury. Thank you for taking the time to consider our members and be a positive role model for all.

We look forward to inviting you back soon!

Best,

Stephanie Lloyd, Adapt Clubhouse


Kathy Martin, M.Ed., CRC, CPCRT, CBIST– Brooks Clubhouse Manager

Second Chance to Live, Zoom and the Brooks Rehab Clubhouse

Presentation: Finding Purpose after Brain Injury

Presentation: Stroke, Brain Injury and Benefits of Neuroplasticity

Hi Craig,

I wanted to again thank you for your time and sharing your personal insights about living with a brain injury with our Brooks ABI Clubhouse members and staff.  We were all touched and inspired by your story and the members expressed great gratitude for you presenting via Zoom.  While everyone’s story and journey is different, it is always helpful for a fellow survivor who has had more than his share of challenges and setbacks to send the strong message to “never give up”. Additionally, your presentation on neuroplasticity was excellent!!  People living with a brain injury can become discouraged if they don’t see significant improvements in a short amount of time and hearing that in order to form new neural pathways (retrain the brain) takes time and many, many repetitions helps motivate people to persist.  I hope that other individuals, programs and brain injury clubhouses will take advantage of  your willingness to share, at no cost, your valuable insights, experience, knowledge and wisdom.

Many Thanks,

Kathy Martin, M.Ed., CRC, CPCRT, CBIST

Brooks Clubhouse Manager


Lee Moss — Executive Director — Brain Injury Association of Mississippi

Brain Injury Association of Mississippi and Finding Purpose after Brain Injury

Dear Craig,
Thank you so much for sharing your TBI experience with the Brain Injury Association of Mississippi Support Group!  Your message was filled with inspiration and hope that helped our survivors and family members remember to “never give up.”  We’ve all been affected by COVID-19 in different ways, but for our survivors, isolation can easily lead to deep depression and extreme loneliness.  The BIA of MS has worked to prevent these things by providing speakers and online sessions through Zoom during the pandemic.  Your message was one of the best sessions we’ve had, and I’m so grateful that you were willing to share with our people, particularly right now.

Thank you again

Lee Moss

Executive Director

Brain Injury Association of Mississippi

Jackson, MS  39216


Kimberly Hill, MS, CTRS, CCT Executive Director — Brain Injury Assn. of Louisiana

Brain Injury Association of Louisiana and Finding Purpose after Brain Injury

Hi Craig,

You were fantastic today… thank you for giving of your time, your story, your inspiration, everything. That is the largest number of people we have had on a call and many were case managers from rehab hospitals. They were probably listening to learn from  you how to help their patients. Your impact ran deep today, as I am sure it does always, so thank you! An email went out to all participants with the links, book, email, website, power point, etc. that you sent me. Please let’s keep in touch! I will also share your information with my other BIA affiliate leaders.

Testimonial

Craig

Thank you for sharing your time and inspirational message with our brain injury support group this week. In this new virtual world, so many people are lonely and depressed as they are not able to interact in person. The compassion, care, and interest you showed each person was heartwarming, and I know you made a difference in everyone’s lives. Hearing from you, sharing your story with us, and hearing your motivational messages to each person was such a blessing.

Best,

Kimberly Hill, MS,CTRS,CCT
Executive Director
Brain Injury Association of Louisiana/
New Orleans, La 70118


Recent Public Speaking Presentations by Craig Phillips, Second Chance to Live

Craig is available to offer one or both of these presentations to your participants. The members of your Brain Injury Association, Brain Injury Alliance, Brain Injury Clubhouse, Hospitals, and Rehabilitation Centers through Zoom at no cost or expense to you or your organization.

Click on the Below Links to Open the Presentations

Finding Purpose after Brain Injury Zoom Presentation

 Acceptance and Creating a New Normal after Brain Injury and Stroke

Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope After Brain Injury and Stroke Zoom Presentation

Believing in Ourselves through Self-Advocacy — A Guide to Owning Our Power after Brain Injury and Stroke


I Am More Than My Brain Injury Zoom Presentation (Full Presentation)

I Am More than My Brain Injury Zoom Presentation in 3 Parts

“I Am More Than My Brain Injury – What Led me to this Awareness Part 1” Zoom Presentation

“I Am More than My Brain Injury — Understanding the People we Interact with as Individuals living with Brain Injuries” Part 2 Zoom Presentation

“I Am More than My Brain Injury – Defining and Creating My New Normal” Part 3 Zoom Presentation


Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities (Full Presentation)

Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities in 3 Parts

“Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities — The People We Interact with as Individuals with Invisible Disabilities Part 1” Zoom Presentation

  “Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities — Acceptance and Discovering a New Normal Part 2” Zoom Presentation

“Understanding the Impact of Invisible Disabilities — Why do I Feel so Misunderstood and Shunned? Part 3” Zoom Presentation


How I Use the Principle of Neuroplasticity to Create new Neural Pathways and Brain Reorganization

I began my process of using repetitive mirrored movements through different martial art disciplines in October of 1997.

In August 2013 a friend of mine made a video presentation of the progress that I made using the principle of neuroplasticity. Other friends have helped me to make video presentations of my progress in each year since 2013. Below are links to YouTube presentations of the progress made using repetitive mirrored movements. To watch the progress made using the principle of neuroplasticity over the past 11 years, click on Start > for each of the demonstrations.

Below are links to short video presentations ( 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, (due to a shoulder injury and Covid no recordings in 2019 and 2020) 2021, 2022, 2024 showing the progression of how the concept of neuroplasticity through repetitive mirrored movements has benefited my mind and body.

Developing both Gross and fine Motor Skills and Skill Sets

As I have continued in my ongoing use of repetitive mirrored movements — to create new neural pathways and brain re-organizations — I have worked to develop gross and fine motor skills.

Neuroplasticity through Martial Arts Disciplines August 2013

Neuroplasticity Demonstration August 2014

Brain Injury, Neuroplasticity and Personal Gains August 2015

Balance and Coordination through Repetitive Mirrored Movement 2016

Brain Injury Recovery and  Repetitive Mirrored Movements 2017

Improving Our Brain and Body’s Ability to Excel after Brain Injury 2018

Stick Fighting, Knife, Western Boxing & Wing Chun Drills September 2, 2021

Transition Drills to Improve Agility, Focus, Speed & Coordination September 6, 2021

Hand Eye Coordination and Precision Drills using Fine Motor Skills Created September 12, 2021

Neuroplasticity, Martial Arts, Hand Eye/Foot Eye Coordination February 14, 2022

Brain-Body Connection –Craig J Phillips MRC, BA, Second Chance to Live March 2024


 Strategies for Achieving the Goals we Set through Using the Principles of Neuroplasticity

Nine Habits to Benefit from Using the Principle of Neuroplasticity


 Below is a link to the keynote presentation that  I created and am available to present at coming conferences

Neuroplasticity, Setting Goals and Creating Hope after Brain Injury and Stroke PowerPoint Presentation


Among the 168 Groups and Organizations using Second Chance to Live over 18 years

Brown University Synapse

Temple University Synapse

University of Michigan Synapse

University of California – Irvine Synapse

University of Pittsburgh Synapse,

University of California – Davis Synapse

Johns Hopkins University Synapse

Covid-19 Research Involvement Group

Brain Injury Association of Louisiana/United Spinal Louisiana Chapter

Inova Loudon Outpatient Specialty Rehabilitation Hospital

Brain Injury Association of Virginia

Cleveland Clinic Brain Injury and Long Covid-19 Support Groups

Medstar National Rehabilitation Hospital Brain Injury Support Group

Penn Presbyterian Hospital Brain Injury Support Group

Overland Park Rehabilitation Hospital Brain Injury Support Group

Adventist Rehabilitation Hospital Brain Injury Support Group

Magee Rehabilitation Hospital Brain Injury Support Group

Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital In Service for Support Staff and Brain Injury Support Group

Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital Brain Injury Support Groups

Carolinas Rehabilitation Hospital In Service for Support Staff

Charlotte Area Brain Injury Network (CABIN) Brain Injury Support Group

Colorado Department of Education Kaleidoscope Conference for Educators and Students

University of North Carolina — Chapel Hill Brain Injury Support Group

University of California at Berkley Synapse Brain injury Support Group

Columbia University Synapse Brain Injury Support Group

Harvard University Synapse Brain Injury Support Group

Synapse National Future Leaders in Brain Injury Conference Panelist “Navigating the Healthcare System as a Person with a Brain Injury”

Alamo Head Injury Association Support Group

Brain Injury Association of New York State Support Group

Brain Injury Association of Iowa Support Group

Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association Brain Injury Support Group

Gateway Clubhouse Brain Injury Support Group

Brain Injury Association of Mississippi Brain Injury Support Group

Brain Injury Association of Georgia Veteran Brain Injury Support Group

Fayetteville North Carolina Brain Injury Support Group

Beacon  Clubhouse Brain Injury Support Group

Brain Injury Services Adapt Clubhouse Communication Support Groups

Brain Injury Association of Colorado Headstrong Publication

Brain Injury Network of Dallas (BIND) Brain Injury Support Group

The Bridgeline Brain Injury Clubhouse Brain Injury Support Group

Side by Side Brain Injury Clubhouse Brain Injury Support Group

The Empower Brain Injury Clubhouse Brain Injury Support Group

Brain Injury Association of Indiana Brain Injury Support Group

Beechwood NeuroRehab Community-Integrated Brain Injury Specialty Programs Support Groups

Seminole Spirit Speech and Language Brain Injury Support Group

18th Annual IBICA — International Brain Injury Clubhouse Alliance Virtual Conference

Brain Injury Association of Tennessee Brain Injury Support Group

Shadyside Brain Injury Support Group

SOAR — Empowering Individuals with Differing Abilities Brain Injury Support Group

Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts Support Groups

Rehab without Walls Brain Injury Support Groups

Brain Injury Association of South Carolina Brain Injury Support Group Leaders Annual Workshop

Brain Injury Association of Vermont Brain Injury Support Group

Council on Brain Injury CoBI ReDiscoverU Sessions Brain Injury Support Groups

Head Injury Association of Northern Nevada Brain Injury Support Group

North Dakota Brain Injury Network Webinar Wednesdays

Brain Injury Association of North Carolina Statewide Support Groups

Brain Injury Association of Louisiana Support Group

Southeast Brain Support for TBI and Stroke

European Brain Injury Society Publication

Intute in the United Kingdom Publication

Center for Disability Services at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa Publication

Brain Injury Association of Canada Publication

Australasian Rehabilitation Nurses’ Association Publication

American Association of Neuroscience Nurses Publication

United Brains — A Network of Self-help and Self-advocacy and support groups for people with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) throughout Victoria

Empowering Veterans.org

Science blogs.com – Neurophilosophy

Synapse – Reconnecting Lives, Queensland, Australia Publications

Resiliency Center.comhttps://secondchancetolive.org/about-second-chance-to-live/

Thrive — The Geoffrey Udall Centre Beach Hill Reading RG7 2AT Growth Point Journal
Support for Change

Accord Services – Excellence in Health Care For Case Mangers, Adjusters, Clients and Caregivers Helpful Links

Google’s Custom Search for Suggested Websites for Brain Injury Information

Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns

NRI Neurologic Rehabilitation Institute at Brookhaven Hospital — An inspiring project and great tools for recovery and life Rolf Gainer Ph.D.
Texas Brain Injury Alliance – Caregiving Resources

Brain Injury Connection — Connecting Survivors, Caregivers, Providers and Community

Kids Thank a Veteran.com

WorldNews.com — A Leadership And Life Model Based On Humility

No Limits to Life Blog

American Association of Neuroscience Nurses (AANN)

Mivzak On Israel

San Juan Center for Independence – Gallup, New Mexico

Southern Maryland Brain Injury Support Blog

American Association of People with Disabilities AAPD

Missouri Developmental Disability Center

Able Data — Your Source for Assistive Technology Information

NYS Independent Living Council, Inc.

Mental Health Foundation, UK

Every Patient’s Advocate — A blog about patient empowerment, advocacy, safety, consumerism and tools to navigate the dysfunction of American health care.

Broken Brilliant – Brilliant Mind Blog

New Horizons Un-Limited: Community and Internet Resources

Aphasia Hope Foundation Blog

Craig Hospital – Caring exclusively for patients with spinal cord and brain injuries Resources and other Websites of Interest

Psychiatric Weekly: psychiatric news, information, education

Accord Services Healthcare Excellence Resources

Fred’ Head Companion – American Printing House for the Blind

Brain Injury Association of Niagara Blog

Hinds Feet Farm – Huntersville, NC

Brain Injury Association of PEEL & HALTON

Brain Injury Association of Texas Blog

Central Florida Brain Injury Support Group — Brain Injury and Other Organizations

Brains – On the Philosophy of Mind and Related Matters

A Soldiers Perspective Blog TBI Encouragement Blog

Wounded Warriors 2nd Verse — Heroes Overcoming Obstacles — Cav Mom
Support for Change Newsletter

Carry the Flame, Inc. Blog

Brain Injury Directory Promoting Brain Injury Survivor Self-Advocacy and Collective Advocacy — Motivational Speakers
The Bone Daddies Road to Recovery Useful Links

Brain Injury.com

Colterworks Missing Pieces – Mending the Head Injury Family Blog

Neuroeconomics Center for the Study of Neuroeconomics at George Mason University

Supporting Recovering American Soldiers – Laura Benjamin

Access Ability – Gathering of Resources for Traumatic Brain Injury

Arizona Sunshine TBI Blog – Traumatic Brain injury and Comfort

Wisdom of Healing – Blog Archive – Carnival of Healing #96

FirstPost — http://www.firstpost.com/topic/disease/brain-injury-neuroplasticity-muscle-memory-coordination-agility-and-cr-video-rvf-Wz1msSY-50859-1.html

The Dragon Slayers Guide to Life: Carnival of Change

Iraq War Veterans Service – Iraq War Veterans Organization — Fermin Jiminez

We Must Support Our Injured Veterans – E-zine Articles

Brain Injury Resource — Links and Publications

Watergate Summer

Northeast Center for Special Care

TBI Residential and Community Resources

Brain Trust Canada – Serving People with Brain Injuries

Harbor Speech Pathology Resources

Brain Injury Association of Texas

Abandonment Recovery.com – Links

Renown Health Resources

The Brain Injury Peer Visitor Association

Independence, Inc. Resources

Brain Injury Alliance of Wisconsin

Brain Injury Alliance of Oregon

Brain Injury Handbook, Rehab UK

Synapse – The Official Journal of the Brain Injury Associations of Australia

Brain Injury Association of Canada

Acquired Brain Injury Network News

The Official Journal of the Australasian Rehabilitation Nurses’ Association

Euroacademia Multidisciplinaria Neurotraumatologica — EMNe.V- Links.

The Warrior Transition Command U.S. Army AW2 Community Support Network

The Center for Disability Studies at the University of Hawai’I at Manoa

Intute — comprised of a consortium of universities in the United Kingdom

The European Brain Injury Society

The Brain Injury Association of Australia

Headway – Tasmania. Australia

Alaska Brain Injury Network

Alaska Peer Support Consortium

CDC Heads Up – Brain Injury Awareness – Atlanta, GA – Government

The Trust — The Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority

Albritton Disability Consulting Services Southwest Conference on Disability 2013

The CSA Blog — Society of Certified Senior Advisors

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