Nearly 60,000 Mississippians are living with a disability due to a traumatic brain or spinal cord injury, and another 440,000 are managing the long-term effects, requiring a lifetime of care and accommodations. For nearly 40 years, the Brain Injury Association of Mississippi/United Spinal Association of Mississippi has been a steadfast resource for survivors, their families, and caregivers, supporting them wherever they are in their journey.
We offer a variety of services, including a 24-hour helpline, access to a comprehensive resource library, support groups across the state and virtually, fall prevention education, advocacy and awareness initiatives, free ATV helmets for youth, and programs that encourage active, social lives for survivors. These include a monthly disc golf club for survivors, facilitated by BIAMS/USAMS in partnership with disc golf enthusiast and brain injury survivor Wesley Ward, which provides an inclusive, low-pressure way to stay active and connected. We also offer free ImPACT baseline concussion testing for students to support safer participation in sports and other activities.
Each May, we host an Outdoor Extravaganza at Camp Kamassa, an annual retreat for survivors and their families held at fully adaptive campgrounds. Our weekend at Camp Kamassa is an opportunity for survivors to enjoy the outdoors, build community, and recharge in a setting designed to be accessible to all. Participation is free, though space is limited.
We are also proud to partner with the Mississippi Museum of Art to offer Art in Mind, a monthly workshop facilitated by certified art therapist Susan Anand. This program allows survivors to manage stress and anxiety, cope with life changes, and gain personal insight by exploring the galleries and creating their own works of art in a supportive setting.
Participation in Art in Mind is free for all survivors, though space is limited. For dates, times, or to reserve a spot, contact us at (601) 981-1021 or visit www.msbraininjury.org.
