Paralympic Champion Alexa Leary Calls for National TBI Awareness Day
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, but July 17 holds a deeper meaning for one Paralympic star.
"That date is the start of my second life."
Paralympic champion Alexa Leary is advocating for July 17 to be officially recognized as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Day. On that date in 2021, Leary sustained a severe TBI in a cycling accident—an event she describes as the beginning of her "second life."
A Fight for Recovery and a Record-Breaking Return
Now 24, Leary lost four to five years of memory following the accident and was initially unable to walk or talk. She credits swimming rehabilitation as the turning point in her recovery.
Her remarkable journey led her to the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where she earned two gold medals and one silver, along with setting a world record in the women's 100m freestyle (S9).
Ongoing Challenges and Daily Management
Despite her athletic triumphs, Leary reports ongoing challenges with emotional regulation, memory, and processing speed. To manage these difficulties, she works with a behavioral coach and writes daily notes.
She described her achievements in Paris as "incredible" and expressed deep pride in her progress.
A Push for Official Recognition
While March is dedicated as Brain Injury Awareness Month, there is currently no specific day set aside for TBI. Leary says she chose to share her story to support others living with TBI and to push for official recognition of a dedicated awareness day.
"I share my story to support others living with TBI."