The Healing Brainwaves Team
Director/Founder
Lambidakis suffered a traumatic brain injury during an improvisation class in college in 2011. She took a medical leave and discovered a passion for photography, focusing on capturing big wave surfing at Mavericks. Her work has been published in various publications such as The New York Times, Surfer’s Journal, etc. After witnessing the high volume of professional surfers sustaining brain injuries at Mavericks, Lambidakis created Healing Brainwaves to provide easily accessible information on treatments and prevention.
Certified in the Family Development Method, Lambidakis uses her knowledge of brain healing to assist recipients in their recovery following a brain injury.
Editor
Williams is a Santa Cruz-based security consultant and analyst for Silicon Valley tech companies. She has a Master’s in Terrorism and Nonproliferation studies from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and a Bachelor’s in Anthropology from Mills College. In her free time, she enjoys surfing, skiing, and hanging out with her artsy husband, Ethan Estess.
Board of Directories
Publications
Stab - “The Brain Injury Preparation and Prevention Guide" provides a comprehensive overview of how to prevent and prepare for brain injuries in surfing. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks associated with surfing and taking appropriate measures to minimize them, such as using appropriate safety gear and practicing proper technique. The article also discusses the signs and symptoms of a brain injury and the steps to take if one occurs. It concludes with tips for recovering from a brain injury and returning to surfing safely. Overall, the article provides a useful guide for surfers looking to protect themselves from brain injuries. Link to the full article.
Surfline - "The Dangers of Surfing Big Waves and Brain Injuries" explores the risks of surfing in big waves and the potential for brain injuries. It discusses the impact of a high-speed wipeout, its effects on the brain, and the potential for concussions and other traumatic brain injuries. The article also highlights the importance of protective headgear and how it can reduce the risk of brain injuries in surfing. The author provides examples of surfers who have suffered from brain injuries and the challenges they have faced in their recovery. Overall, the article serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of surfing in big waves and the need to take appropriate safety measures. Link to the full article.
Santa Cruz Sentinel/San Jose Mercury - "Big Thrills, Dangerous Spills: Local Nonprofits Provide Treatment Options for Surfers Who Suffer Brain Injuries" discusses the efforts of two Santa Cruz-based non-profit organization Healing Brainwaves Foundation, to provide support and treatment options for surfers who have suffered brain injuries. The article highlights the challenges of treating brain injuries and the importance of access to specialized care. It also discusses the impact of these injuries on surfers and their families and the need for increased awareness and education about brain injury prevention. Overall, the article sheds light on the valuable work local non-profits do to support the surfing community in Santa Cruz and beyond. Link to the full article.
Appearances
Mavericks Safe Summit 2021, 2022 & 2023
Mavericks Festival 2023
Mavericks Brain Injury Clinic 2021
A Nod t0 OneHitAway Foundation
OneHitAway, founded by Jill and Darren CdeBaca following their son Brett's concussion during college football practice, was a remarkable organization committed to increasing awareness and generating funds for treating and recovering sports-related brain injuries. Over its eight years of operation, OneHitAway profoundly impacted countless athletes, providing healing and support. Audrey Lambidakis, our director, had the incredible opportunity to intern at OneHitAway from 2020 until its closure in 2022.
It is difficult to express our gratitude towards the CdeBacas for their unwavering dedication to the world of brain injuries. Their selfless commitment has touched the lives of numerous individuals, offering hope and resources to those in need.
We remain forever grateful for the invaluable work accomplished by OneHitAway and extend our sincerest appreciation to the CdeBacas for their transformative contributions to sports-related brain injuries.