Lake/Forest Lake Bluff Chamber: Tell us a little bit about the Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation and the important work you do?
CB: The Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation is a 501c3 charitable foundation located in Lake Forest, Illinois (501-C3 EIN: 84-3922164). The Foundation is committed to helping individuals, who have suffered cervical spinal injuries causing physical and cognitive disabilities, and their families and communities, by providing financial resources to help ensure a continuum of rehabilitation resources and provide opportunities for individuals to ultimately reach optimal health and independence.
LF/LB: What was your inspiration to start the Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation?
CB: I recognized myself as one of the "lucky ones" in many respects, I established the Socrates Awards, which the foundation gives to 2-3 paralyzed individuals each year who best embody the mantra of the Socrates Creed: Those who pursue a healthy mind and a healthy body in the face of adversity, such as disability and a long recovery, are amazing examples of people with true character.
After suffering a spinalcord injury, this mantra took on a new and profound meaning for me. The challenge of striving for a healthy mind in a healthy body is perhaps toughest when faced with a disability. How does the Socrates creed still apply?
Recognition that life itself is, full of incredible highs and frustrating lows
Recognition that "a healthy mind" is equally important as "a healthy body"
Recognition the daily pursuit of "a healthy mind" and "a healthy body" in the face of adversity - such as disability and a long recovery - is the true testament of one's character
The Socrates Award is awarded annually to recognize the accomplishments of individuals who have suffered spinal cord injuries, but have "doubled-down" on their efforts to live their lives according to the Socrates Award mantra... a "Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body.
LF/LB: What is your vision or hope for the future of your foundation?
CB: The Foundation remains committed to helping those who have suffered a severe stroke; got into an accident that damaged their spinal cord; sustained a traumatic neck injury; or have suffered complications resulting in Paralysis. Our goal isto grow our Double Down on Disabilities Fund to a size that support these "lifetime" grants to individuals through the investment income produced by the fund.
As a result, we strive to help these individuals ultimately reach optimal health and
independence. We offer financial assistance to help rebuild their livesthrough rehabilitation therapies.
LF/LB: Thank you for your support of our Chamber! Please let us know how the community can be involved or support the work you do with the foundation?
CB: Building awareness through the networking opportunities of the Chamber is essential. Having the Foundation as the Chamber's "member spotlight" adds to its visibility and continued fundraising success.
Since thefoundation's inception in 2018, the Double Down on Disabilities Fund every year looks to raise a goal of $250K in both cash and in-kind services to help individuals and their
families burdened with the physical, emotional, and financial stress ofspinal cord injury causing a permanent disability.
LF/LB: Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself or your business?
CB: I live with my lovely wife and caregiver Diane and our dog Luna in Lake Forest. Diane is a lifetime Lake Forest resident. We have eight children together and currently thirteen grandchildren and counting.