Our STORY
In February 2024, Dr. Kelli Uitenham was invited as a featured speaker at the South Carolina Speech and Hearing Association (SCSHA) annual conference. Her 90-minute presentation on concussion, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in athletes, and the critical role of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) struck a chord with her audience. At the conclusion of her talk, a long line of colleagues approached her, many sharing personal concerns about their loved ones—former and current athletes—exhibiting potential signs of brain injury.
This unexpected response highlighted a significant gap in public knowledge about brain health and the risks associated with head injuries. Dr. Kelli began to wonder: if her well-informed colleagues were unaware of this information, how likely was it that the general public, including her neighbors, friends, and community members, understood these risks? Informal conversations confirmed her suspicions—awareness was alarmingly low. This realization inspired her to take action, and Brain Talk Foundation was born.
With extensive experience treating neurological and neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and aphasia through her private telepractice, Serenity Speech Therapy, Dr. Kelli envisioned a nonprofit that would raise awareness and provide education about brain health. Combining her passion for talking and the brain, she established Brain Talk Foundation to bridge the knowledge gap and empower communities.
Since its inception, Dr. Kelli has traveled nationwide, speaking to audiences about aphasia, brain injuries in athletes, military service members, and survivors of domestic violence. Drawing inspiration from the impactful D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program she remembers from her youth, Dr. Kelli created Brain Talk Day, an initiative aimed at educating communities—especially young people—about brain health, injury prevention, and recovery.
Understanding that total brain health encompasses both neurological and mental well-being, Brain Talk Foundation incorporates a mental health component into its programs. This holistic approach underscores the Foundation’s mission to not only reduce the growing number of brain injuries but also to improve overall brain health for communities everywhere. Together, we can raise awareness, spark conversations, and create a future where brain health is prioritized and protected.
