When Scott Painter was just 17-year’s-old, life as he knew it was turned upside down. Diagnosed with a brain tumour wrapped around his cerebellum and brainstem, he underwent a craniotomy that led to three cerebellar haemorrhagic strokes.
Read more
From surviving sepsis and childhood strokes to becoming a Paralympic medalist, Jasmine Greenwood’s journey is one of resilience, recovery, and rising to the top of Para Swimming. Discover how a life-changing brain injury shaped her path to purpose—in and out of the pool.
Read more
At just 24, Rebecca has survived multiple brain injuries, including autoimmune encephalitis and strokes, and still lives with daily challenges like seizures and cognitive hurdles.
Read more
Elijah was in a skydiving accident at 14-years-old that saw him suffer multiple injuries, including a life-long brain injury. 10 years later, he's determined to achieve his dreams!
Read more
Will’s life took an unexpected turn following a brain injury. Through resilience, Will navigated the complexities of recovery. His story offers insight into the realities of living with a brain injury and the strength found in perseverance.
Read more
In 2023, Stephanie’s life changed in an instant. A missed diagnosis of a brain aneurysm led to a coma, brain surgery, and a long recovery. With fierce determination and family support, she’s rebuilding her life and celebrating the joy of motherhood.
Read more
In 2018, Bianca’s life changed in an instant. A car crash left her with a traumatic brain injury and a long road to recovery, but with grit, humour, and the help of a growing dog named Chuck, she found a new purpose in study, advocacy, and hope.
Read more
After encephalitis erased his memory at 18, Trevor had to start his life over. From basic skills to understanding human connection. His journey was filled with challenges, yet he found purpose in his career and community. Now, he shares his story to inspire others and honour carers who make recovery possible.
Read more
Paul’s life changed in an instant when an undiagnosed condition caused a massive brain haemorrhage at work. After intensive recovery and rehabilitation, Paul’s resilience shines as he rebuilds his life one step at a time. Paul and Tracey’s journey is a testament to resilience, humour, and the power of never giving up.
Read more
Elizabeth’s life changed in an instant at just 12 years old which altered her path forever. But instead of letting it define her, she turned her experience into a mission—helping others navigate their own recovery journeys through research, advocacy, and the healing power of yoga.
Read more
Discover Andrew's inspiring journey of resilience, from overcoming childhood challenges and homelessness to finding his voice through acting, music, and content creation.
Read more
At 44 years old, Andy was a fit marketing executive when his life took an unexpected turn. A series of seizures revealed a rare brain abscess, caused by an undiagnosed hole in his heart. Andy focused on his recovery, not just for himself but for his partner Kelly, who stood by his side. “I promised her I’d do everything I could for myself and for her."
Read more
In 2022, Simon had a life changing accident while working on a mine site. During his recovery, he discovered encouragement and hope through a new circle of friends.
Read more
When Faith was just 13 years old, she fell from a cliff while hiking in the Grampians on school camp. Along with physical injuries Faith had sustained a traumatic brain injury. Now 21, Faith is studying a Bachelor of Social Work and is passionate about connecting and sharing her journey living with a brain injury.
Read more
Asha was 18 years old when she had an accident at work that resulted in a brain stem injury and concussion. It came with the expected challenges but now as a 30-year-old mum of two she has graduated university and is thriving.
Read more
When Tessa was just 11 years old, she and her brother Harry crossed a country road and were both struck by a car going 100 kilometers per hour. While Tessa managed to survive, her brother sadly did not make it.
Read more
In 2018 Lisa suffered a stroke, caused by a blood clot that passed through her basilar artery – this particular artery had a kink in it, something Lisa had been born with.
Read more
Sarah was just driving home, one week after she had just gotten engaged to her now husband, when she had a near fatal car crash.
Read more
Lance Clayton was your typical Aussie father of three and owner of a small business – Mello, a design and animation studio – until in early 2023 at the age of 35 he had a stroke.
Read more
26-year-old Oliver had just moved to Canberra and was starting his graduate program when he was assaulted on a night out with friends.
Read more
Passionate musician and hospital volunteer, Frederick suffered a brain injury in 2021.
Read more
Canberran and father-of-one, Dane McCormack contracted a bacterial infection- encephalitis while in hospital causing him to develop a brain injury.
Read more
Tanya Spencer is a loving grandmother who struggled to connect with the person she previously was after having multiple strokes in 2021 at 58-years-old.
Read more
Tom Spratt was driving to Newcastle to attend university when he fell asleep at the wheel and was hit by a passing motorist. Tom woke in hospital to find he had sustained a traumatic brain injury.
Read more
Father-of-two Gregg Oughton was a fit and healthy 51-year-old when he suffered a stroke during his usual CrossFit session at the gym.
Read more
Myra is a proud Gurindji and Wakka Wakka woman, an International Leadership Expert and Business Coach, and a best-selling author who’s been living with a brain injury for the past 7 years.
Read more
42-year-old Sean Gardner was an aluminium Welder and competitive waterski racer before an accident in New Zealand changed the course of his life.
Read more
Jalen was a keen AFL player working in traffic control when he attended a family event, then woke up three weeks later in hospital.
Read more
10 years ago, Angela’s life as a mum and Beauty Therapist changed forever doing what most Australian families do every weekend, emptying the camper trailer.
Read more
In 2001, Dave was an eager student keen to study IT at university when one day on his way to school he pulled out in front of a car. Dave, unfortunately, suffered a brain injury and spent seven months recovering in hospital.
Read more
In 2015, Patty was working and didn’t feel well. Later that day Patty decided to go to hospital and that was when Patty had a stroke, leaving her with a brain injury at 52.
Read more
At 18 Ros was driving along a country bitumen road with four of her friends from boarding school and ended up having a car accident. While her friends thankfully walked away unscathed, Ros suffered a brain injury.
Read moreAfter Harrison’s* mother and carer passed away, he was left to navigate a complex estate situation. Synapse advocates worked with Harrison to find the legal support required to reach a positive outcome that has since seen him living in his own home.
Read moreAfter a motor vehicle accident left Catherine* in a wheelchair with a brain injury, her life changed completely and she had to live with her parents. Synapse supported Catherine and her family to gradually transition her to independent living and fuller life.
Read moreIn 2020, Matthew* suffered multiple strokes which resulted in severe disability. After struggling to get suitable care through the Public Guardian, Matthew's friends and the Synapse Advocacy Team took action. Thanks to the support of his family, friends and the efforts of Matthew’s advocate at Synapse, he now has greater control over decisions regarding his care.
Read more
Kathy Rees and her daughter Belinda “B” Buckler were in a freak car accident in a flooded causeway in 1983 that left B with an Acquired Brain Injury.
Read more
After a traumatic brain injury left him unable to continue working, Urs Birrer has begun an exciting new phase of his life and recovery, volunteering and inspiring others to do the same.
Read more
Cheryl Dedman and her husband desperately wanted a second child but, with Cheryl having lost pituitary function as a result of a brain tumour, it wasn’t to be. Shortly after adopting their son, Jacob, the couple began to notice distinct differences in his behaviour and development.
Read more
Cheryl Dedman knows more about brain injury than most, having experienced it both personally, and as the adoptive parent of a teenager diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Read more
In 2011 Kris Tucker experienced a brain bleed from an aneurysm, and subsequently a stroke. While the road since then has been challenging, Kris says that even amidst endless unknowns you must hold on to hope.
Read more
In 2014, Danny Trestrail suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. Challenges notwithstanding, Danny is still happy with the direction his life has taken.
Read more
For Narelle Hawkins, the lack of understanding and empathy for brain injury isn’t just frustrating, it’s devastating – leaving her son Todd isolated and in despair.
Read more
Campbelltown woman Anne-Maree Hart sustained a head injury because of a serious domestic violence incident.
Read more
Danette Rowse, from Hazelbrook in the Blue Mountains, was a 48 year old mum of two when, after sunspot removal, she blacked out at the wheel, colliding with another vehicle and suffering extensive injuries.
Read more
In 2010, Julian was in an accident that left him with a brain injury. Support from family and a positive outlook has driven his recovery.
Read more
In 1992, the Australian Government sent three telegrams to Michael Liang Sen Yan’s hometown in China to let his parents know that he had suffered a car accident.
Read morePhil and Abbie have been married for 35 years, navigating the highs and lows of family life with a brain injury.
Read more
At just 22 years of age, a blood clot in Caitlin's brain caused her to collapse at home. After intensive rehabilitation, Catilin is taking a positive outlook on recovery.
Read more
24-year-old Caitlin Reid, from NSW, says that while a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) brought a succession of challenges, with that also came enormous personal and professional growth.
Read more
Meredith’s daughter Ari was diagnosed with a brain tumour when she was 17. Meredith shares her experience as a carer, the impact of brain injury on her own life, and how she takes care of her own wellbeing.
Read more
Leanne Hall cares for two complex needs children and has struggled for years to organise support from the NDIS for her son, Ollie. Rachael Kernick of Synapse became part of 'Team Ollie', and has contributed to life-changing funding for the family.
Read more
Sarah had just crossed the finish line of a triathlon on the Gold Coast when her brain "shut down". It took her over two years to discover what had happened: a virus aggressively inflamed her central nervous system.
Read more
Damien's story highlights the importance of a solid support network to motivate you through your rehabilitation and recovery.
Read more
Kate has experienced two episodes of Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (ANE) - an extremely rare and often fatal disease.
Read more
In November 2017, Shelby had just finished a two week tour around Australia with her band The Beautiful Monument, when she was admitted into The Austin Hospital in Melbourne with an unknown illness.
Read more
As a child in 1998, Tim was in an accident that caused traumatic brain injury. His long journey of recovery and discovery has lead him to focus his energy on others.
Read more
In 2011, Les Clarence’ fit and healthy 55-year-old wife Franziska suffered a stroke in her sleep.
Read more
In February 1993, Julie was working as a flight attendant when she began experiencing persistent headaches.
Read more
David Trahair has an acquired brain injury as a result of a fall at home. David and his wife Nicki hold the Beans 4 Brains Fun Run annually.
Read more
When David was 11 years old, he acquired a brain injury through a horse riding accident.
Read more
Nick Lonie is the former Chairman of Headwest. His brain injury occurred after he fell from the back of a moving ute.
Read moreAfter Harrison’s* mother and carer passed away, he was left to navigate a complex estate situation. Synapse advocates worked with Harrison to find the legal support required to reach a positive outcome that has since seen him living in his own home.
Read moreAfter a motor vehicle accident left Catherine* in a wheelchair with a brain injury, her life changed completely and she had to live with her parents. Synapse supported Catherine and her family to gradually transition her to independent living and fuller life.
Read moreIn 2020, Matthew* suffered multiple strokes which resulted in severe disability. After struggling to get suitable care through the Public Guardian, Matthew's friends and the Synapse Advocacy Team took action. Thanks to the support of his family, friends and the efforts of Matthew’s advocate at Synapse, he now has greater control over decisions regarding his care.
Read moreOur Ambassadors come from all walks of life and each brings a unique perspective and contribution to our community.
From surviving sepsis and childhood strokes to becoming a Paralympic medalist, Jasmine Greenwood’s journey is one of resilience, recovery, and rising to the top of Para Swimming. Discover how a life-changing brain injury shaped her path to purpose—in and out of the pool.
Read more At just 24, Rebecca has survived multiple brain injuries, including autoimmune encephalitis and strokes, and still lives with daily challenges like seizures and cognitive hurdles.
Read more Elizabeth’s life changed in an instant at just 12 years old which altered her path forever. But instead of letting it define her, she turned her experience into a mission—helping others navigate their own recovery journeys through research, advocacy, and the healing power of yoga.
Read more Paul’s life changed in an instant when an undiagnosed condition caused a massive brain haemorrhage at work. After intensive recovery and rehabilitation, Paul’s resilience shines as he rebuilds his life one step at a time. Paul and Tracey’s journey is a testament to resilience, humour, and the power of never giving up.
Read more Kathy Rees and her daughter Belinda “B” Buckler were in a freak car accident in a flooded causeway in 1983 that left B with an Acquired Brain Injury.
Read more Cheryl Dedman knows more about brain injury than most, having experienced it both personally, and as the adoptive parent of a teenager diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Read more For Narelle Hawkins, the lack of understanding and empathy for brain injury isn’t just frustrating, it’s devastating – leaving her son Todd isolated and in despair.
Read morePhil and Abbie have been married for 35 years, navigating the highs and lows of family life with a brain injury.
Read more Meredith’s daughter Ari was diagnosed with a brain tumour when she was 17. Meredith shares her experience as a carer, the impact of brain injury on her own life, and how she takes care of her own wellbeing.
Read more Leanne Hall cares for two complex needs children and has struggled for years to organise support from the NDIS for her son, Ollie. Rachael Kernick of Synapse became part of 'Team Ollie', and has contributed to life-changing funding for the family.
Read more Kate has experienced two episodes of Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (ANE) - an extremely rare and often fatal disease.
Read more In 2011, Les Clarence’ fit and healthy 55-year-old wife Franziska suffered a stroke in her sleep.
Read more When Scott Painter was just 17-year’s-old, life as he knew it was turned upside down. Diagnosed with a brain tumour wrapped around his cerebellum and brainstem, he underwent a craniotomy that led to three cerebellar haemorrhagic strokes.
Read more Elijah was in a skydiving accident at 14-years-old that saw him suffer multiple injuries, including a life-long brain injury. 10 years later, he's determined to achieve his dreams!
Read more Will’s life took an unexpected turn following a brain injury. Through resilience, Will navigated the complexities of recovery. His story offers insight into the realities of living with a brain injury and the strength found in perseverance.
Read more In 2023, Stephanie’s life changed in an instant. A missed diagnosis of a brain aneurysm led to a coma, brain surgery, and a long recovery. With fierce determination and family support, she’s rebuilding her life and celebrating the joy of motherhood.
Read more In 2018, Bianca’s life changed in an instant. A car crash left her with a traumatic brain injury and a long road to recovery, but with grit, humour, and the help of a growing dog named Chuck, she found a new purpose in study, advocacy, and hope.
Read more After encephalitis erased his memory at 18, Trevor had to start his life over. From basic skills to understanding human connection. His journey was filled with challenges, yet he found purpose in his career and community. Now, he shares his story to inspire others and honour carers who make recovery possible.
Read more Paul’s life changed in an instant when an undiagnosed condition caused a massive brain haemorrhage at work. After intensive recovery and rehabilitation, Paul’s resilience shines as he rebuilds his life one step at a time. Paul and Tracey’s journey is a testament to resilience, humour, and the power of never giving up.
Read more Discover Andrew's inspiring journey of resilience, from overcoming childhood challenges and homelessness to finding his voice through acting, music, and content creation.
Read more At 44 years old, Andy was a fit marketing executive when his life took an unexpected turn. A series of seizures revealed a rare brain abscess, caused by an undiagnosed hole in his heart. Andy focused on his recovery, not just for himself but for his partner Kelly, who stood by his side. “I promised her I’d do everything I could for myself and for her."
Read more In 2022, Simon had a life changing accident while working on a mine site. During his recovery, he discovered encouragement and hope through a new circle of friends.
Read more When Faith was just 13 years old, she fell from a cliff while hiking in the Grampians on school camp. Along with physical injuries Faith had sustained a traumatic brain injury. Now 21, Faith is studying a Bachelor of Social Work and is passionate about connecting and sharing her journey living with a brain injury.
Read more Asha was 18 years old when she had an accident at work that resulted in a brain stem injury and concussion. It came with the expected challenges but now as a 30-year-old mum of two she has graduated university and is thriving.
Read more When Tessa was just 11 years old, she and her brother Harry crossed a country road and were both struck by a car going 100 kilometers per hour. While Tessa managed to survive, her brother sadly did not make it.
Read more In 2018 Lisa suffered a stroke, caused by a blood clot that passed through her basilar artery – this particular artery had a kink in it, something Lisa had been born with.
Read more Sarah was just driving home, one week after she had just gotten engaged to her now husband, when she had a near fatal car crash.
Read more Lance Clayton was your typical Aussie father of three and owner of a small business – Mello, a design and animation studio – until in early 2023 at the age of 35 he had a stroke.
Read more 26-year-old Oliver had just moved to Canberra and was starting his graduate program when he was assaulted on a night out with friends.
Read more Passionate musician and hospital volunteer, Frederick suffered a brain injury in 2021.
Read more Canberran and father-of-one, Dane McCormack contracted a bacterial infection- encephalitis while in hospital causing him to develop a brain injury.
Read more Tanya Spencer is a loving grandmother who struggled to connect with the person she previously was after having multiple strokes in 2021 at 58-years-old.
Read more Tom Spratt was driving to Newcastle to attend university when he fell asleep at the wheel and was hit by a passing motorist. Tom woke in hospital to find he had sustained a traumatic brain injury.
Read more Father-of-two Gregg Oughton was a fit and healthy 51-year-old when he suffered a stroke during his usual CrossFit session at the gym.
Read more Myra is a proud Gurindji and Wakka Wakka woman, an International Leadership Expert and Business Coach, and a best-selling author who’s been living with a brain injury for the past 7 years.
Read more 42-year-old Sean Gardner was an aluminium Welder and competitive waterski racer before an accident in New Zealand changed the course of his life.
Read more Jalen was a keen AFL player working in traffic control when he attended a family event, then woke up three weeks later in hospital.
Read more 10 years ago, Angela’s life as a mum and Beauty Therapist changed forever doing what most Australian families do every weekend, emptying the camper trailer.
Read more In 2001, Dave was an eager student keen to study IT at university when one day on his way to school he pulled out in front of a car. Dave, unfortunately, suffered a brain injury and spent seven months recovering in hospital.
Read more In 2015, Patty was working and didn’t feel well. Later that day Patty decided to go to hospital and that was when Patty had a stroke, leaving her with a brain injury at 52.
Read more At 18 Ros was driving along a country bitumen road with four of her friends from boarding school and ended up having a car accident. While her friends thankfully walked away unscathed, Ros suffered a brain injury.
Read more After a traumatic brain injury left him unable to continue working, Urs Birrer has begun an exciting new phase of his life and recovery, volunteering and inspiring others to do the same.
Read more Cheryl Dedman and her husband desperately wanted a second child but, with Cheryl having lost pituitary function as a result of a brain tumour, it wasn’t to be. Shortly after adopting their son, Jacob, the couple began to notice distinct differences in his behaviour and development.
Read more Cheryl Dedman knows more about brain injury than most, having experienced it both personally, and as the adoptive parent of a teenager diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Read more In 2011 Kris Tucker experienced a brain bleed from an aneurysm, and subsequently a stroke. While the road since then has been challenging, Kris says that even amidst endless unknowns you must hold on to hope.
Read more In 2014, Danny Trestrail suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. Challenges notwithstanding, Danny is still happy with the direction his life has taken.
Read more Campbelltown woman Anne-Maree Hart sustained a head injury because of a serious domestic violence incident.
Read more Danette Rowse, from Hazelbrook in the Blue Mountains, was a 48 year old mum of two when, after sunspot removal, she blacked out at the wheel, colliding with another vehicle and suffering extensive injuries.
Read more In 2010, Julian was in an accident that left him with a brain injury. Support from family and a positive outlook has driven his recovery.
Read more In 1992, the Australian Government sent three telegrams to Michael Liang Sen Yan’s hometown in China to let his parents know that he had suffered a car accident.
Read morePhil and Abbie have been married for 35 years, navigating the highs and lows of family life with a brain injury.
Read more At just 22 years of age, a blood clot in Caitlin's brain caused her to collapse at home. After intensive rehabilitation, Catilin is taking a positive outlook on recovery.
Read more 24-year-old Caitlin Reid, from NSW, says that while a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) brought a succession of challenges, with that also came enormous personal and professional growth.
Read more Sarah had just crossed the finish line of a triathlon on the Gold Coast when her brain "shut down". It took her over two years to discover what had happened: a virus aggressively inflamed her central nervous system.
Read more Damien's story highlights the importance of a solid support network to motivate you through your rehabilitation and recovery.
Read more Kate has experienced two episodes of Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (ANE) - an extremely rare and often fatal disease.
Read more In November 2017, Shelby had just finished a two week tour around Australia with her band The Beautiful Monument, when she was admitted into The Austin Hospital in Melbourne with an unknown illness.
Read more As a child in 1998, Tim was in an accident that caused traumatic brain injury. His long journey of recovery and discovery has lead him to focus his energy on others.
Read more In February 1993, Julie was working as a flight attendant when she began experiencing persistent headaches.
Read more David Trahair has an acquired brain injury as a result of a fall at home. David and his wife Nicki hold the Beans 4 Brains Fun Run annually.
Read more When David was 11 years old, he acquired a brain injury through a horse riding accident.
Read more Nick Lonie is the former Chairman of Headwest. His brain injury occurred after he fell from the back of a moving ute.
Read moreIf you’ve got questions or need advice, support or further information, get in touch with us today. We’d love to help