SOMERS — For many people living with a traumatic brain injury, the most difficult challenges may be the ones others cannot see.
Memory and concentration problems, changes in communication and behavior, emotional regulation, fatigue and difficulty managing everyday situations can continue long after a survivor has left the hospital or completed rehabilitation.
Those invisible challenges are at the heart of Unmask the Invisible, a nonprofit founded from the experiences of Sierra Longmoore and her family following her severe traumatic brain injury.
The organization will bring its mission to the community on Nov. 7 with its Chuckles for Charity fundraiser at Sonny’s Place in Somers.
Amy Longmoore, president of the organization’s board and Sierra’s mother, said the name Unmask the Invisible reflects an important reality for survivors and their families.
“A brain injury is lifelong,” Longmoore said. “Some effects may be visible, such as physical challenges or difficulties with motor skills. But many of the most significant effects are invisible to others.”
The impact, she said, extends well beyond the survivor.
“It can create a ripple effect throughout the entire family, affecting spouses, children, parents, siblings, friends, caregivers and the broader community,” Longmoore said.
Unmask the Invisible grew out of Sierra’s recovery and the challenges her family encountered along the way. As Sierra became more aware following her injury, Longmoore said the family experienced firsthand how isolating the process could be.
“There was a lack of understanding about her capabilities, along with an apprehension from others about how to approach her or even how to interact with her,” she said.
As Sierra’s 24/7 caregiver, Longmoore also discovered gaps in resources and support for families navigating brain injury.
Sierra wanted to help others experiencing similar challenges, and that desire ultimately led to the creation of Unmask the Invisible. The nonprofit was incorporated in February 2023.
Today, the organization offers programs focused on education, connection, enrichment and support. Its initiatives include the Sierra Project, art workshops, Paint It Forward art kits, support groups through Hope Café, educational and reintegration programs, and the Halo Fund, which provides financial assistance to brain injury survivors and their families.
The Halo Fund can help with expenses such as medical costs not covered by insurance, adaptive equipment, therapies, transportation to appointments and other essential needs.
For Longmoore, that assistance is about more than simply providing financial help.
“Recipients of the Halo Fund are invited to attend our annual Chuckles for Charity event, where they have the opportunity to share their stories, celebrate their progress, and demonstrate firsthand how the support of our donors has helped them move forward in their recovery,” she said.
Chuckles for Charity will begin at 6 p.m. Nov. 7 at Sonny’s Place. The evening will feature three comedians, a taco bar, refreshments, a cash bar and a silent auction. Guests will also have an opportunity to meet Halo Fund recipients and hear directly about their experiences.
“The presence of our Halo Fund recipients is what makes this event especially meaningful,” Longmoore said. “Attendees will have the opportunity to see firsthand who their support impacts and hear stories of resilience, recovery, and hope.”
While fundraising is an important part of the evening, Longmoore hopes attendees leave with a deeper understanding of brain injury and a connection to the organization’s mission.
“We hope attendees leave with more than an understanding of who their support helps. We hope they leave feeling connected to the mission of Unmask the Invisible and inspired to become part of it,” she said.
That mission is particularly important because of a common misconception that someone who appears physically healthy must have fully recovered from a brain injury.
“In reality, many of the most significant effects of a brain injury are invisible,” Longmoore said.
Those misunderstandings can affect relationships, employment, education and everyday interactions. Unmask the Invisible works to increase awareness so communities can better recognize and respond to challenges that may not be immediately apparent.
“Our goal is simple: look beyond what you can see, listen to what you cannot, and meet each survivor with understanding rather than assumptions,” Longmoore said.
Ultimately, Longmoore said, the organization’s work is about ensuring survivors and caregivers do not feel forgotten once traditional medical treatment ends.
“Brain injury is a lifelong journey, and survivors deserve access to connection, purpose, resources and support throughout that journey,” she said.
For Unmask the Invisible, Sierra’s experience has become a way to offer hope to others.
“Success is knowing that because of Unmask the Invisible, someone who once felt alone now knows they are not,” Longmoore said.
