The Next Step Foundation guides families toward resources for recovery programs following traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries or illness.
Arnie Fonseca, an exercise physiologist, had trouble finding funds to get therapy for his son Brandon, who was seriously injured in an alcoholrelated car crash four years ago.
"His life is completely different,’’ Fonseca said about Brandon, 25. "He received one of the most harsh brain injuries you can have.’’
But, his son’s rehabilitation needs exceeded the funds Fonseca could find. He formed the nonprofit foundation so that others wouldn’t struggle in getting their loved ones to that "next step" in recovery. The foundation works with insurance providers, and can usually secure coverage to pay for therapy programs if they’re deemed medically necessary.
A fundraiser will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Neuro Institute, 1221 W. Warner Road, Suite 102, in Tempe. Admission is free to the event, which will feature a bench press contest, jumping pit for kids, a dunk tank, raffles and games. Proceeds will go to people seeking help.
To learn more, go to
www.thenextstepfoundation.org or call (602) 390-9144.
