Name: Mark C., 31 years old

City: Phoenix, AZ

Brain Injury: ANOXIC BRAIN INJURY AT BIRTH/TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (TBI). The umbilical cord was wrapped around my throat causing a lack of oxygen to my brain. The TBI caused nerve damage that resulted in auditory issues.

Explanation of mask:  My TBI caused learning deficits and I was in Special Education my whole 12 years of school. I also have had problems with impulsivity. I impulsively went with a friend when I was 20 and ended up getting a felony and having to go to jail. I never understood about TBI until my father had his and thru my own research and working with doctors I realized I had one too. I have become a big supporter of the TBI community and always help fellow survivors. I always try to find the POSITIVE in every situation. Yes, I am disabled but I do not let my disability define who I am. I DEFINE WHO I AM AND WANT TO BE. MY DISABILITY IS JUST A PART OF MY LIFE.