Over the next several years Chris and Amy endured countless challenges as they adjusted to this life changing event. Over time, with the help of many doctors and therapists, participation in support groups, the encouragement of family and friends, and Chris’s unwillingness to give up or give in, they have made it through the storm. So much so, that most people they meet remark that they would not have known Chris was a brain injury survivor had he not disclosed that he was. This journey has provided insight into a world of re-discovery, re-direction, and has re-defined the way Chris and Amy perceive their relationship and the world around them.
 
Since 2006, Chris and Amy have been very active pursuing their newfound passion. In addition to facilitating a support group for brain injury survivors and caregivers in the NorthWest Valley of Arizona for several years, Chris and Amy are actively involved in brain injury awareness projects, education and training programs, and providing public speaking services throughout the country. Chris and Amy have also been keynote-motivational speakers at Colleges and Universities, and at conferences for nationally recognized groups that are affiliated with worldwide service organizations. It is through their presentations, discussion and support group facilitation, and motivational speaking engagements that Chris and Amy enable others to restore hope, reclaim purpose, and “Aspire To Move Forward.”
 
Chris and Amy present at civilian and military conferences for survivors and their family members where they openly share personal  experiences that they have encountered in the capacity of survivor, caregiver, and as a couple learning how to live again after experiencing a traumatic life changing event. It is through their presentations, discussion and support group facilitation, and motivational speaking engagements that Chris and Amy enable others to restore hope, reclaim purpose, and “Aspire To Move Forward.” They also train professionals who treat the brain injury population at workshops, training seminars, and in-service training programs.
 
As a result of their personal experience, Chris and Amy were inspired to provide support for others who find themselves at a crossroad in their own lives.  ASPIRE PLACE, a Personal Life Adjustment Coaching and Consultation company was founded, where they combine their professional experience with their passion to help others.  Chris and Amy are also co-authors of Learning To Live Again… A Day At A Time, which can be purchased on this website.

Chris holds a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. He has worked in the counseling field for over 20 years, and is a New York State Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Emeritus, retired Credentialed Prevention Specialist and Guidance Counselor. His international consulting experience includes working with the University of LaVerne (Athens campus) and with Akita University (Akita City, Japan).