Who We Are
Starting with Hope
The Valley Disability Support Group is a friendly online resource and community connector for traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors in rural and suburban Northern Virginia. Since 2019, the family and friends of Dr. Victoria Newman Ford have led this project to keep the conversation going among survivors and caregivers.
Living with a brain injury can be hard. Many people struggle with coping with the diagnosis, navigating the healthcare system, and managing disability. After her own traumatic brain injury, Dr. Newman Ford returned to her hometown of Front Royal, VA for care and support from her family as she faced cognitive loss, ongoing neurological challenges (including visual changes), and the realities of living with brain injury as a chronic condition.
With the support of brain injury specialist Sylvia Whitmire, LCMHC, BCB-Fellow, CCMC, this community of neighbors, friends, and family comes together to help each other feel better and reconnect with who they are beyond the label of “brain injury survivor.” We share what we’ve learned and what Sylvia has gained from over 30 years in brain rehabilitation, so no one has to walk this path alone.
Whether you are a survivor or a family member, you are welcome here.
The Goal
Every person deserves a kind, informed community.
Traumatic brain injury survivors and their families deserve to feel heard and guided, not alone.
Our primary focus is on the real‑life challenges of mild to moderate TBI.
This online resource helps you:
- Understand your options
- Connect with trusted providers and support systems
- Find community, education, and advocacy that support better long‑term outcomes
We’re a stepping stone — a connector that helps you move from confusion toward clarity, care, and hope.
How We Help
Would you like to see how we can help you specifically?
Explore our resources today.
Stories from Our Community
“
When my husband had his injury, I felt like I was all alone in the dark. This group helped me find the light again. They showed me the right resources and gave me people to talk to who truly understand. It makes a world of difference.
— Anonymous Family Member
“
Finding this group was the best thing that happened after my accident. I met other survivors who are working toward the same goals. We share tips and support each other. I finally feel like I am part of a community again.
— Anonymous Survivor
Want to see how our group can help you too? Every small step counts.