Invisible Wounds Foundation Strengthens Board with Expert Brain Health Appointments
Strengthening the Fight Against Traumatic Brain Injury
On October 7, 2025, the Invisible Wounds Foundation, a Chicago-based nonprofit, announced significant new appointments aimed at enhancing its efforts to address traumatic brain injuries (TBI) among U.S. military personnel, particularly within Special Operations Forces (SOF). This initiative highlights the foundation’s commitment to advancing research and science dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and ultimately preventing TBIs that afflict many military personnel today.
A New Addition to the Board of Directors
The foundation proudly welcomes Dr. Daniel Perl to its Board of Directors. Dr. Perl is internationally recognized as a pioneering authority in traumatic brain injury research, focusing particularly on the issues faced by military personnel. He has been honored with numerous accolades for his contributions to medical education and neuropathology.
Expanding the Medical and Science Advisory Council
In addition to Dr. Perl’s appointment, the Invisible Wounds Foundation has bolstered its Medical and Science Advisory Council (MSAC) by adding seven distinguished experts in the field of brain health and military-related TBI research:
- - Rocco A. Armonda, M.D. - Currently a Professor of Neurosurgery at Georgetown University, Armonda is renowned for his work in treating neurotrauma and managing cerebrovascular disorders. His military experience as a Colonel adds a unique perspective to his research.
- - Ibolja (Ibi) Cernak, M.D., Ph.D. - With over three decades in research, Dr. Cernak specializes in TBI, blast injuries, and stress-related issues. Her contributions have been pivotal in addressing military health concerns.
- - Josh Duckworth, M.D. - A retired U.S. Navy officer, Dr. Duckworth is a distinguished authority on sub-concussive blast exposure and has interacted with high-level military leaders to influence the treatment of TBI within the military.
- - Jordan Grafman, Ph.D. - As the Director of Brain Injury Research at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Dr. Grafman has conducted extensive studies focusing on cognitive neuroscience related to TBI.
- - Dallas Hack, M.D. - A research consultant, Dr. Hack has played a significant role in trauma care advancements and authored a key national research action plan aimed at improving care for military personnel.
- - Kristen Dams-O'Connor, Ph.D. - She directs the Brain Injury Research Center at Mount Sinai Hospital and has developed a considerable body of work geared toward enhancing rehabilitation approaches for TBI victims.
- - Terri Tanielian, M.A. - A leader in veteran health policy, Tanielian’s extensive background in behavioral health and suicide prevention aligns well with the foundation’s mission. Her previous experience as Special Assistant to President Biden focuses on veterans' affairs.
Collaborative Effort to Advance TBI Research
Dr. James Kelly, the foundation’s chief medical scientist, will lead the newly-formed MSAC. This council’s primary objective will be to identify and support groundbreaking research projects aimed at addressing traumatic brain injuries. Dr. Kelly has underscored the foundation’s vision: “Collaborating with the finest minds will enable us to produce reliable diagnostic tools and effective treatments for TBI.”
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are often dubbed the signature wounds of modern warfare, frequently resulting from repeated exposure to explosive blasts during combat. Symptoms can be debilitating, including ongoing physical complications such as headaches, visual disturbances, sleep issues, anxiety, depression, and even risk of suicide. Given the psychological ramifications, the foundation’s mission is particularly vital in offering comprehensive support and rehabilitation to those affected.
A Vision for the Future
The appointment of Dr. Perl and the esteemed experts to the MSAC reflects the Invisible Wounds Foundation’s commitment to tackling the complexities surrounding traumatic brain injuries. With a focus on collaboration among researchers, military leaders, and healthcare professionals, the foundation is poised to accelerate the discovery of effective solutions for our warfighters.
For further information about the Invisible Wounds Foundation and its initiatives, visit invisiblewounds.org.
Topics Health）
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