One for the Record Books…
Under a perfect sunny sky, the 4th Annual Brain Bolt 5K brought smiles to the faces of hundreds who gathered
With the largest crowd of participants ever, many racers recorded their personal best times, new winner categories showcased the speed of many youngsters, and two traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors spoke about their overwhelming triumphs.
Our celebrity emcee, Gunner from the nationally syndicated Bob&Tom Show, helped entertain participants, and this year we honored the strength of TBI survivors Paul Peaper and Ryan Bardellini. Along with several other survivors, Paul and Ryan conquered the 5K course, with Paul claiming, “Top Survivor Finisher.” And in an amazing show of comradery and support, Ryan and his mother, Kimberly, walked the entire route side-by-side his neurosurgeon, Charles Kulwin, MD.
Richard Rodgers, MD, and Charles Kulwin, MD—neurosurgeons at Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine—invited Paul and Ryan to join them on stage during the closing ceremony of the Brain Bolt 5K. Dr. Rodgers spoke of treating Paul’s severe skull fracture at IU Methodist, a Level 1Trauma Center. Paul offered his gratitude to his providers, therapists, family and friends for their care and support. Dr. Kulwin shared the story of Ryan’s incredible survival and rehabilitation following a severe traumatic brain injury. Ryan and his mother spoke of their appreciation for his treatment and excellent care by Dr. Kulwin and the entire team at St. Vincent Hospital, a Level 1 Trauma Center.
The Survivor Tribute was closed with every survivor joining the stage to the sounds of hearty applause.
As the annual event continues to exceed expectations each year, we are eager to start planning the 2019 Fifth Annual Brain Bolt 5K.
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