Angela Pennella was on her way home when a driver crossed into her lane and struck her car head-on. She sustained multiple fractures and lacerations, extensive internal injuries, and a traumatic brain injury that left her with significant cognitive challenges. "I was just 23 years old and faced a long and very difficult road to recovery," she admits. Despite this, I never thought 'Why me?' but rather 'What am I going to do about this now?'"

What Angela did was work hard. She underwent numerous procedures, months of physical rehabilitation, and years of cognitive therapy. With her fearless determination, deep faith, and family support, she slowly progressed, as she says, from "survivor to thriver."

Fast forward 22 years. Today, Angela is a highly successful real estate agent in San Diego, a board member of the city's Brain Injury Foundation, and a popular motivational speaker. Still dealing with the lingering effects of her TBI, she is always open to new treatments that may further improve her cognitive skills.

"Since my injury, I've been fascinated by how the brain works, so when a friend mentioned the amazing research taking place at Kessler Foundation, I was all in! Even though Angela was injured decades ago, she met the criteria and joined the Strategies to Enhance Memory (STEM) study led by Nancy Chiaravalloti, PhD.

Angela reports, "I gained greater insight into the learning process and important tactics that have helped me improve my recall ability. It also boosted my confidence, both personally and professionally."

"I am so very grateful for this opportunity to learn from and contribute to the growing body of neuroscience research at Kessler Foundation, and for the generous support of donors who make the research possible. This is where the future for people like me is built," Angela concludes.