02/25/2026
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, we welcomed more than 130 Iowans to the Iowa Statehouse.
As I looked out at the crowd, I was reminded of something powerful: we are bigger than any one person.
BIAIA began with Iowans impacted by brain injury who came together because they needed answers. They needed support. They needed someone to listen. Decades later, our vision remains the same — to serve individuals and families impacted by brain injury so they can live, work, and play in their communities.
Iowans from across the state showed up for many reasons, bringing with them lived experience, professional expertise, passion, hope, and encouragement. They shared stories of resilience and determination, as well as frustration and challenge. And when we met with legislators, we were not speaking only for ourselves — we represented the 1 in 4 Iowans who report experiencing a brain injury in their lifetime.
Brain injury affects our neighbors, our schools, our workplaces, our healthcare systems, and our communities. It touches every part of life. That is why we advocated for policies that strengthen access to Brain Injury Resource Facilitation and Education and Training services — because access to information and navigation can mean the difference between isolation and opportunity.
That is also why we urged lawmakers to appropriately fund Medicaid, protect home and community-based services, and lift caps that limit access to critical supports. Stable coverage allows Iowans not just to survive, but to truly live in their communities.
Our theme for the day was “Live, Work, Play.” Attendees spoke about their desire to live safely in homes and communities of their choice, pursue meaningful employment and purpose, and fully participate in community life — not be separated from it.
If you weren’t able to connect with your legislator at Hill Day — or weren’t able to attend — remember that advocacy does not begin or end with one day at the Capitol. Engage your elected officials at town halls, over coffee in your community, through emails, phone calls, and social media throughout the year. Continue building relationships beyond the legislative session. That is how lasting change happens.
Advocacy is not about being perfect. It’s about being personal. You are the expert on your own experience. Legislators need to hear how their decisions impact real people.
Our voices matter. Our stories matter. And together, our voices are stronger.
