Traumatic brain injury program; $12.5M gift helps veterans, 1st responders

MILWAUKEE - The Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin Neuroscience Institute announced on Thursday, April 27 a $12.5 million gift to establish a program to treat traumatic brain injury in military veterans and first responders. 

The gift was provided by the Avalon Action Alliance, a national organization focused on the mental wellness of veterans and first responders.

With the money, the institute is launching the BRAVE (Building Resilience through Action in Veterans and First Responders) program. It is described in a news release as an intensive, three-week, outpatient program customized to treat the unique needs of participants with mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) or concussions.

"The lessons that we learn from the program will set a trend on how we can transform how we deliver care," said Dr. Shekar Kurpad/Froedtert & MCW Neuroscience Institute Director. "The impact of what we’re doing at the neuroscience institute is going to be felt at a very personal level, to people at our entire state and beyond."

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The BRAVE program will conduct detailed clinical evaluations and develop a customized treatment plan that targets each individual's needs and how to best support their recovery.

"A psychological injury it’s harder to see. One thing about folks in public safety is we’ve not been excellent at asking for help," said Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski.

BRAVE is expected to welcome its first patient by Sept. 1. Services will be delivered at the Froedtert & MCW Greenfield Highlands Health Center.