Think About It Kicks off Fall Education Programming 🧠

By Thomas Lehrich, Jake Petersen and Kevin Johnston

With brain research as one of the last frontiers in medical research our yearlong education campaign on neurological conditions and TBIs is exciting for the community. Each quarter we feature educational information and outreach on a contemporary neurological topic.

We know that about 2.8 million Americans sustain brain injuries each year, and an estimated 5.3 million Americans are living with disabilities related to traumatic brain injury.  That means, for many, the effects of TBIs are long lasting.

We announce TBI26 Think aBout It. Each quarter we will continue to explore topics in traumatic brain injuries, music therapy and neurology, neurodegenerative diseases and resources for caregivers. 

In November we begin TBI26 with a segment on supplements. Traumatic brain injury continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Our focus in November is looking at improving brain health knowing that TBIs are a contributor to future neurodegenerative conditions.

We explore the efficacy of supplements and alternative strategies being investigated in both pre-clinical and clinical studies. We will provide the latest on research focused on the benefits of supplements, nutrition, and alternative therapies for the treatment of TBI and subsequent symptoms. Supplements have shown beneficial outcomes when administered in pre-clinical models. The Plus One Foundation provides for the community therapies such as music therapy, movement and aquatics to help with symptoms associated with TBIs.

In November we provide an overview of both acute and chronic TBI-related symptoms, discuss the secondary mechanisms associated with TBIs, and highlight supplements, nutritional interventions, and alternative therapies that are at the forefront.

Thomas Lehrich board president recognizes NATIONAL NEONATAL NURSES DAY

By Thomas Lehrich

Plus One Foundation recognizes the contributions of neonatal nurses.

National Neonatal Nurses Day, observed each year on September 15, recognizes those who care for the most fragile patients as they take their first breaths. The celebration takes place in the middle of National Neonatal Intensive Care Awareness Month. 

Neonatal nurse specialists work with newborn infants who are delicate at birth due to a variety of reasons. They may have been born premature or born with birth defects, infection, neurological conditions, surgical issues, or heart problems. Neonatal nurses also provide care for healthy newborn infants immediately following their birth.

The day celebrates their dedication and commitment to the profession. It also is a way to encourage others interested in the field to take a closer look. With the growing demand for qualified neonatal nurses, the more students stepping up to the challenge of this satisfying career, the better.

Board of Directors to hold Annual Fall Planning Retreat in Seattle 🍂

By Thomas Lehrich, President 

As fall begins the Plus One board is busy planning the year of programming. 

Fall marks a time for planning and is a time for the earth’s autumnal equinox. 

Autumnal equinox is when the earth experiences nearly equal day and night, marking the official beginning of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. 

This astronomical event occurs when the sun crosses the celestial equator, and for those in the Northern Hemisphere, days become shorter and cooler. 

We know the equinox is also associated with cultural celebrations, like harvest festivals, and increased activity all over the world. 

In late fall the board is meeting on the campus of University of Washington to complete the 2026 strategic plan and committee goals. 

The retreat and strategic sessions is designed to deliver high impact programming and education for the neurological community. 

Thomas Lehrich board president discusses support for World Alzheimer’s Month

By Thomas Lehrich, President 

During September, people unite from all corners of the world to raise awareness and to challenge the stigma that persists around Alzheimer’s disease and all types of dementia.

During World Alzheimer’s Month, we call on everyone, from individuals to large organizations, to support advocating for greater awareness and understanding around dementia. 

Education is at the heart of what we do; our Think aBout It campaign aims to dig deeper into all aspects of TBIs and neurological conditions. Look for the upcoming segment this fall on the newest research for TBI treatments. 

Welcoming New Team Members to Plus One

President Thomas Lehrich Welcomes New Members.

This summer we are thrilled to welcome new team members whose skills, passion, and dedication will help us continue our mission.

Meet Our New Team Members
We’re excited to introduce:

• Hannah Handal, Development Officer – Hannah joins us with expertise in donor engagement and fundraising, ready to help us expand our reach and deepen our impact.

• Joanna Fernando, Office Manager – Joanna brings strong organizational skills, a passion for fostering inclusive environments, and a dedication to ensuring our operations run smoothly.

We’re grateful for the leadership, creativity, and energy both Hannah and Joanna bring to Plus One Foundation. We can’t wait to see the amazing things we’ll accomplish together.

See Our Full Team