Brain injury camps flourish while federal TBI research funding stalls

Camp Cranium, located in Millville, Pennsylvania, provides a week-long summer experience for youths aged 10 to 21 who have survived serious brain injuries, offering activities ranging from archery to zip-line rides. The camp’s success reflects a national trend of increased survival rates due to seat-belt laws and past federal investment in trauma care. However, Congress has not reauthorized the Traumatic Brain Injury Act since 2024, and a 2025 purge of CDC staff eliminated the team that was preparing a nationwide concussion surveillance system.

The Department of Health and Human Services says remaining staff at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control will handle TBI work, but advocates like Rebeccah Wolfkiel stress the need for more resources. Despite the funding gap, nonprofit camps continue to rely on private contributions, and the Brain Injury Association of America notes that only $8.25 million was appropriated for TBI programs in the 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act, far less than the $23 million previously provided. Camp participants, such as Lucas Hardy and Brianna Engleman, report increased confidence and social connection, underscoring the camps’ vital role amid uncertain federal support.