These Nonprofits Are Paving the Way for Brain Disorder Research

 A main priority for those affected by brain disease is having access to up-to-date information about treatments and available services. Continuous scientific research is needed to find more effective treatments, cures, and to help ease the symptoms. 

We’ve put together a list of organizations devoting their time and funds to brain disorder research. These efforts are improving the lives of many suffering from these disorders and changing the standard for care and support. We hope after reading about their efforts you feel compelled to join their cause.

FRAXA Research Foundation

Newburyport, MA

FRAXA is a nonprofit that directly funds grants and fellowships at top universities around the world for research about Fragile X syndrome. Founded in 1994 by three parents, their mission aims to find effective treatments and cures for this genetic disorder, and in some cases autism. So far, they have provided $27 million, which has resulted in 27 research teams across many universities worldwide.

No single nonprofit organization is doing more to fund research for curing Fragile X syndrome than FRAXA. As a parent of a son with this disease, FRAXA continues to give me the hope I need not just for my son, but also for the many families struggling on a daily basis with the many challenges of living with and supporting affected individuals.

Brain Rehabilitation and Injury Network (B.R.A.I.N.)

Cypress, CA

B.R.A.I.N. helps and advocates for brain injured adults 18 years of age or older. Their efforts are dedicated to advancing research, recovery, and care for those who are suffering from brain injuries as well as education and outreach. The nonprofit hosts programs such as support groups, specialized yoga classes, speech therapy, and caregiver courses.

I give thanks every day that my husband Andres found this great organization B.R.A.I.N. Since his injury he has attended many support groups but none has been so supportive and caring. They make him feel at home and they have brought him hope that he can go on living with his new self. THANK YOU!!! He comes home smiling after a meeting and that’s a big deal now. God bless B.R.A.I.N.

Making Headway Foundation

Chappaqua, N.Y.

Making Headway Foundation works to find a cure for children with brain and spinal cord tumors by funding medical brain disorder research. In addition, they strive to provide better care and support for children with brain disorders by funding hospital services such as psychologist visits, massages, yoga, and nutritional snacks. In addition, their programs include support services to not only the children, but also their affected family and support systems.

My daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was 7 in 1998. She is now 23 and recently graduated college. I don’t know how we would have made this journey without the help and support of the Making Headway Foundation. They give you hope and vision for better days, and when days are bleak they are there to hold your hand and help you bear that weight. They also support research looking to the future for better treatments and cures.

International Essential Tremor Foundation

Overland Park, KS

The International Essential Tremor Foundation (IETF) shares global educational information while promoting and funding research about essential tremor (ET). Their nonprofit provides services and support for children and adults affected, their families, and health care providers. Their educational services include free community seminars, webinars, conferences, and a database of physicians who provide specialized care.

IETF provided me with resources many health specialists could not. They went above and beyond to connect me with support groups, neurologists, and online groups. They are a great foundation that serves an oftentimes invisible population.