BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK STATE HOSTS KICKOFF BBQ AT EMERGE NURSING AND REHAB

The Brain Injury Association of New York State (BIANYS) hosted a kickoff BBQ on May 19, 2026, at Emerge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in advance of the Long Island March On for Brain Injury Walk, scheduled for September 26, 2026. The event brought together brain injury survivors, caregivers, and supporters to celebrate the walk's honorees and build momentum ahead of the fundraising campaign.

Long Island March On for Brain Injury Honoree Yianni Hatzikontos attended the event to share his remarkable story of survival. On July 16, 2016, Hatzikontos, just 21 years old at the time, sustained multiple traumatic bodily injuries and a severe traumatic brain injury after a near-fatal car accident. He remained unresponsive for one month before entering a vegetative state, during which he underwent numerous surgeries. Nine months into his recovery, he spoke his first word. Today, though a quadriplegic, Hatzikontos continues to move forward with the same determination that defined his recovery.

At the kickoff BBQ, attendees had the opportunity to meet the honorees, enjoy food, and prepare to lead the charge on walk day.

The Long Island March On for Brain Injury Walk gathers brain injury survivors, caregivers, and professionals each year to celebrate and honor members of the brain injury community. This year's walk will be held on September 26, 2026.

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