Whether you鈥檙e a neuroscientist, physician, clinician, exploring neuro-recovery, or simply passionate about brain health, this is your chance to learn, network and level up.
The Brain Changes Initiative (BCI), in collaboration with Victoria Brain Injury Society and the UVic Concussion Lab under Dr. Brian Christie, is hosting a three-day immersive event on improving brain health.
Brain Health Summit is scheduled for April 2 to 4 at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney and will feature TED Talk-style presentations from healthcare professionals, researchers and individuals with lived experience.
Among them is Dr. Matthew Galati, founder and president of BCI, a not-for-profit organization that funds ground-breaking research to improve the standard of care for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) rehabilitation.
Galati is a survivor of a car accident that left him with a devastating traumatic brain injury. He became an advocate for TBI survivors, raising awareness about non-pharmacological brain healing methods through events and activities.
"My family and I, we took it upon ourselves to research ways that can help improve my recovery, above and beyond what the doctors were doing for me," he says. "What I came across was six lifestyle pillars that are vital for brain health 鈥� aerobic exercise, cognitive stimulation, brain-healthy diets, good sleep, limiting harmful exposures and mindful meditation."
"Whether you have a brain injury, a stroke, depression, anxiety, or even a brain without any pathology and you just want to improve its functioning, this is a must-attend event," Galati added.
Beyond the presentations, the summit will offer brain-healthy meals, interactive activities and workshops such as breathwork, a vendor showcase featuring brain health-related products and services and poster presentations highlighting the latest research in the field.
Dr. Brian Christie, a board member of BCI and a driving force behind the UVic Concussion Lab, emphasizes the importance of this comprehensive approach.
"Brain health is not just about treating illness; it's about fostering resilience and optimizing function through lifestyle choices," he stated.
The event will be hosted by Ontario Hockey League alumnus and TBI survivor Ben Fanelli.
Tickets to Brain Health Summit are available at.
