Our Mission Statement
To collect and provide information about treatment options for traumatic brain injury that are informed by brain injury patients’ experiences and reviewed by health and medical professionals, and to provide funding to brain injury patients who can’t afford treatments not covered by insurance.
The Idea & Implementation
Audrey Lambidakis, the founder of Healing Brainwaves Foundation, discovered that after her brain injury in 2011, the treatments suggested by fellow brain injury patients were more effective than those prescribed by physicians. Her exposure to big wave surfing and the subsequent brain injuries she saw on the water as a surf photographer further reinforced the need for greater education on brain health. In 2018, she established this website, and the platform's popularity led to the founding of Healing Brainwaves Foundation as a nonprofit in 2020. Our website is an ongoing forum where brain injury patients recommend and rate treatments based on their experiences. Medical professionals review the suggested treatments and provide additional information (see Patient Contributors and Contributing Specialists). Healing Brainwaves also provides programs to help people heal from brain injuries: personalized guidance through our recipient program, hyperbaric oxygen therapy access, and educational resources to support recovery and prevention (Our Programs).
Our Board of Directors
Publications
Surfline - "The Dangers of Surfing Big Waves and Brain Injuries" highlights the risks of big wave surfing, focusing on brain injuries from high-speed wipeouts. It stresses the importance of protective headgear, shares stories of injured surfers, and emphasizes the need for safety precautions. Link to the full article.
Surfline - “Surf Concussion is Real: A Way To Re-Set” sheds light on the issue of brain injuries in surfing, highlighting the work of the Healing Brainwaves Foundation. It discusses how concussions are not limited to big waves and explores treatment options like hyperbaric oxygen therapy and brain mapping. Testimonials from surfers stress the importance of prioritizing brain health and seeking timely care, urging surfers to recognize the signs of concussion and avoid returning to the water too soon. Link to full article
Santa Cruz Sentinel & San Jose Mercury - "Big Thrills, Dangerous Spills: Local Nonprofits Provide Treatment Options for Surfers Who Suffer Brain Injuries" highlights how Healing Brainwaves Foundation supports surfers with brain injuries. It emphasizes treatment challenges, the need for specialized care, and the importance of awareness and prevention. Link to the full article.
Stab - “The Brain Injury Preparation and Prevention Guide" offers tips for preventing brain injuries in surfing, recognizing symptoms, and recovering safely. It stresses using proper gear, technique, and being aware of the risks. Link to the full article.
Appearances
Mavericks Safe Summit 2021-2024
B.W.R.A.G. via Greg Long’s presentation est. 2024
Mavericks Festival 2023
Mavericks Brain Injury Clinic 2021