Meet The Resource Center Member, J.P.!

For many individuals, experiencing a sudden, life-altering injury can evoke feelings of hopelessness and despair. However, for some, such a transformative event may inspire profound introspection and a renewed sense of purpose. 



J.P., a 30-year-old man with an inspiring story of resilience and transformation, embodies positivity and hope. Born in Ethiopia and raised in South Africa, he was involved in a serious car crash at the age of 22, that resulted in a month-long coma and a traumatic brain injury, forever altering the trajectory of his life. However, through faith, determination, and the support of MHA’s The Resource Center (TRC), J.P. has not only made a remarkable recovery but has also become a source of inspiration for others facing similar challenges. 

When someone meets J.P., they can immediately sense his joyful essence and optimism. He believes deeply in the power of positive energy and strives to uplift those around him. “I believe in being a positive person. Why be negative? There are so many negative things in the world. Instead of adding to that, you can choose to be positive. Just smile and put a smile on someone's face,” he shares. 

Faith and the search for meaning have always been integral to J.P.’s life. His initials, J.P., are inspired by figures he admires, namely J.P. Morgan and Saint Paul. However, after his injury, he decided to redefine the meaning behind the letter “P”, which now stands for “Paul”, named in honor of his mother’s late husband. “I felt like I was reborn, this was the new me,” he says. 

Since joining TRC over 4 years ago, J.P. has been a dedicated participant in the program and has made incredible strides in his recovery. Initially reliant on a wheelchair, he’s progressed to walking with assistance to now needing only a cane, his recovery is remarkable. J.P. attributes much of his recovery progress to his deeply rooted beliefs.  “It wasn’t easy, but faith is my strength; it's my number one. Faith not just in myself, but in God, family, and friends. You have to believe that you can do it. God gives me the energy,” he explains. That faith in God and the belief in himself would be driving forces in his recovery. 

Despite his injury, J.P. takes a unique approach to his circumstances, viewing his injury not as a disability, but as an opportunity–– a second chance. “I was meant to deal with this. I’m so grateful that this happened to me. You must ask why, right?  I have met so many incredible people that I would not have met if this hadn’t happened. God just changed my route. My life was going left, and he said, ‘You’re going right,” he said. 

Outside of TRC, J.P. is an avid soccer fan and hopes to one day see the World Cup in person. Additionally, J.P. runs a media startup, called AfroPIE (African People Innovation and Entrepreneurship), which he has been developing since high school. The initiative aims to change the narrative about Africa by educating, sharing, and promoting their local businesses, opportunities, resources, and culture to the world. “When I was in high school, my friend's sister thought Africa was a country. I realized I needed to educate people. Using my website-building skills, I want others to see my vision and take ownership,” he explains. He adds, “I just want people to know that I am just a regular person who has had a brain injury, but I am the same as anyone else. There is nothing unusual about me.” 

J.P. is hopeful that newcomers to TRC will adopt a similar mindset and draw inspiration from his experience. “I don't want them to think they are going to be here permanently. They can make progress and resume their lives.  I want those who’ve had a stroke or a brain injury to come here and be inspired like I was. If I can do it, they can do it,” he states. 

The Day Program at our Resource Center is part of MHA’s New Way division for individuals with physical and cognitive impairments resulting from a brain injury acquired after birth from trauma or a medical condition. The Day Program also serves individuals who have both a major medical disorder and a psychiatric diagnosis. The Resource Center is designed to help members improve mental and physical function and interact with peers while engaging in activities they enjoy and often suggest. 

The Resource Center is actively seeking referrals and will be hosting an open house on April 8th from 1:00-3:00 pm at 47 Capital Drive in West Springfield. If you or somebody you know is interested in learning more, visit www.mhainc.org/resource-center or call 844-MHA-WELL.