THE BRAINY-BUNCH where PASSION MEETS PURPOSE
Dan Lewis Foundation | Fall 2023

"The Brainy-Bunch," a dedicated group of social media influencers and college students, has taken up the mantle as volunteers to support The Dan Lewis Foundation for Brain Regeneration Research (DLF). Their journey began with a visit to a prominent research lab, Quiver Biosciences, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, as they embarked on the initial steps to raise awareness and fundraise for research to support traumatic brain injury repair and regeneration. Dr. Roy Maimon, a post-doctoral research scientist at the University of California San Diego and the first recipient of the Dan Lewis Prize, joined the group in Cambridge and gave an interactive presentation on his current research on neuro-regeneration. He provided the non-science group with the novel science behind his current research on neuro regeneration.


This remarkable collaboration between The Brainy-Bunch and the (DLF) highlights the powerful potential of partnerships between social media influencers and the scientific community in propelling medical advancements forward. The social media influencers have the audience, and the scientific community has the expertise, with a commitment to work together to change the course of treatment for those in the brain injury community. At Quiver Biosciences, The BrainyBunch was privy to firsthand experiences of the groundbreaking research spearheaded by eminent figures in neuroscience. Dr. Graham Dempsey and Dr. David Margulies, pioneers in their own right, are at the helm of efforts to revolutionize the critical work for brain trauma repair. The DLF seeks to catalyze brain regeneration research and is working with multiple world-class scientists in that quest.


This unique collaboration seeks to raise awareness and funds to support cutting-edge research that holds promise that brain repair and regeneration, once thought impossible, is now plausible. At the same time, the partnership has kindled a flame of hope that actively supports and champions scientific endeavors. Through their expansive reach on social media platforms, The Brainy-Bunch has a unique opportunity to disseminate critical information about brain regeneration research, acting as a bridge between the scientific community and the general public. In the coming months, it is anticipated that this collaboration will bear fruit, generating a swell of support and funding that will catapult brain trauma research into new frontiers. With the backing of the Brainy-Bunch, the DLF hopes to accelerate the pace of research, drawing us ever closer to a world where medications will one day help the human brain to heal itself.


As the journey continues, it will be exciting to witness the synergy between influencers and scientists, a testament to the power of unity in advancing the cause of medical science. The Brainy-Bunch, with its vibrant personalities, wide-reaching influence, and the brilliant minds of world-class scientists working together, is poised to usher in a new era of hope and progress in traumatic brain injury regeneration and repair. The partnership between the Brainy-Bunch and the Dan Lewis Foundation exemplifies how modern influencers can wield their power for the greater good while making tangible differences in the real world. The collaboration serves as a reminder that when passion meets purpose, amazing things can happen. 

A man in a white lab coat and tie is standing in front of a blue background.
By Dan Lewis Foundation November 13, 2024
Stroke is a common neurological condition that damages brain cells (neurons) in the affected area, leading to a loss of the functions controlled by that region. A hopeful aspect of stroke recovery is that, over time and with rehabilitation, many individuals regain some abilities. This recovery has been linked to a process called “remapping,” where neurons in unaffected areas of the brain adapt to take over the functions of the damaged areas. Although many studies have explored this remapping phenomenon, most evidence has been indirect, based on changes in brain activation patterns or neuron connections after stroke in animal models. Direct proof that neurons change functionality after stroke has been lacking, partly because measuring neuron activity in the brain over time, especially at the necessary scale and duration, is challenging.
A man is holding a fish in his hand in front of a lake.
By Dan Lewis Foundation November 6, 2024
After a life-altering accident in October 2022, Devon Guffey’s story is about resilience and determination. His journey has been profiled in the summer 2023 issue of the Making Headway Newsletter: https://www.danlewisfoundation.org/devons-story . Hit by a drunk driver, Devon sustained severe brain and physical injuries, including axonal shearing, a traumatic frontal lobe injury, and facial fractures. Even after contracting meningitis while in a coma, Devon fought hard to survive – and today, his recovery continues to inspire us all. In late 2023, Devon worked as an assistant basketball coach at Blue River Valley, where he had once been a student. His love for sports and dedication to regaining his physical strength returned him to the gym, where his hard work paid off. Devon’s persistence earned him another job at the YMCA, guiding gym members and supporting facility upkeep. Through all the challenges—deafness in one ear, blindness in one eye, and a permanent loss of taste and smell—Devon perseveres. He recently regained his driving license, a significant milestone that symbolizes his increasing independence and cognitive and physical recovery. While each day may not show significant changes, Devon now sees his progress over time. Today, Devon speaks to groups about his journey, the dangers of drunk driving, and finding strength in adversity. His message is clear: recovery is a process, and sometimes, "can't" simply means "can't do it yet ." Every TBI is unique, and Devon’s story powerfully reminds us of the strength that comes from resilience and community. We are grateful to Devon for continuing to share his story and for his role in uplifting others facing difficult paths. His journey is a testament to the fact that we are stronger together. #BrainInjuryAwareness #DevonsJourney #Resilience #EndDrunkDriving #MakingHeadway
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