Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness

Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness

Our Story

What began as an ordinary day changed our lives in an instant.

My name is Patricia Cotton, the founder of Wired Up TBI Foundation. In the year of 2018 my son, Tory, was involved in a one car accident, and as a result he suffered from traumatic brain injury. A traumatic brain injury not only affects the survivor - but it also ripples through families, friendships, and entire communities. For us, it started with a moment we could not have predicted and a journey we were not prepared for. The confusion, the fear, and unanswered questions had those early days overwhelming. We soon realized how little we understood about brain injury, recovery, and what “normal” would look like moving forward.

As the days turned into months and the months into years, we faced challenges that tested us in ways we never imagined. Simple tasks became milestones. Progress was not always sequential. There were setbacks, frustrations, and moments of doubt—but also resilience, strength, and small victories worth celebrating.

When my son was born, I wanted to name him Tory. For no particular reason, I just love the name. Since his accident we have been claiming VICTORY, that means asserting that he has won or succeeded, even before it’s fully confirmed. Now I see God gave me that name, it has a triumphant meaning, and God knew we would need that in this season.

OUR MISSION

OUR MISSION is to provide support, resources, and hope for individuals and families navigating life after a traumatic brain injury. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, years into recovery, or supporting a loved one, this is a place where your experience is seen, understood, and valued.

We believe in sharing real stories, offering practical resources, and building a community grounded in compassion. Recovery looks different for everyone, but together, we can make the journey a little less isolating.

We created this space because we know we are not alone and neither are you. This is more than our story—it’s yours too.

What is a Brain Injury?

A brain injury is any damage to the brain that affects how it functions. The brain controls everything from movement and speech to memory, emotions, and thinking, even a mild injury can have noticeable effects.

Types of Brain Injuries

  1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) - caused by an external force such as falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or blows to the head. A traumatic brain injury can range from mild (like a concussion) to severe, potentially causing long-term complications.

  2. Non-Traumatic Brain Injury - caused by internal factors such as stroke, lack of oxygen (anoxia), infections and tumors.

Neuroplasticity

The brain rewires itself through a process called Neuroplasticity - it’s ability to change, adapt, and form new connections throughout life.

Your brain is made up of billions of nerve cells call neurons. These neurons communicate through connections called synapses. When part of the brain is injured, it can:

  1. Strengthen existing connections - Neural pathways you use often become stronger and more efficient.

  2. Form new connections - Neurons can create new pathways to bypass damaged areas, helping restore lost functions.

  3. Reassign functions - In some cases, healthy parts of the brain can take over jobs that damaged areas used to handle.

Wired Up Champion of the month!

TAVION LUCKY

December 4, 2022, Tavion’s mother, Natasha, received a phone call that no parent can ever be prepared for. She found out her son was in a horrific car accident and was rushed to the hospital. He had badly bruised lungs, struggling to breathe, and his head was so swollen he did not look like her son Tavion she saw hours before his accident.

This has been a long journey and Tavion’s progress is nothing short of a miracle. Natasha is Tavion’s full-time caregiver and is doing everything in her power to help Tavion have a normal way of life. She drives 45 minutes multiple days a week to take him to therapy.

Tavion is a ray of sunshine and has a sense of humor. He loves listening to music and incorporate lyrics into his conversations. Tavion and Natasha’s faith is growing right along with his progress, and we’d like to give Tavion the spotlight as our Wired Up Champion.

April 2026

Make a Donation

Every act of generosity—big or small—helps us continue our mission and support TBI survivors and their families, who in many cases are the caregivers. Your donation allows us to provide essential resources, guidance, and support to those who need it most. Together, we can make a difference.

Donate $20 or more and you will receive a Wired Up TBI Foundation T-shirt.

3% Cover the Fee

We are here to listen, support, and collaborate in making a difference for those affected by traumatic brain injury and their caregivers. Reach out today and be part of our mission to empower recovery and raise awareness.

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We currently provide services for individuals and families in Wake, Durham, Wilson, and Nash counties of North Carolina. For those outside our core service area, we will be happy to help connect you with resources nearby.

  • Yes, our services are specifically designed for individuals 21 and older who have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI). We also provide guidance and resources to caregivers and families as part of supporting the survivors’ overall care.

  • At this time, we do not have formal partnerships established; however, we are actively working to build collaborative relationships with organizations that align with our mission.

  • You can reach us anytime via our contact page, email, or phone number listed on the website. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one to two business days.

  • Yes, we are a nonprofit organization committed to service the community and advancing awareness of traumatic brain injury.

  • Wired Up TBI Foundation provides support, resources, referrals (not clinical treatment); insurance is not a barrier.