KJ’s Story:

Still Moving Forward - Thanks to You

KJ grew up in Marlborough with his parents and younger sister, staying active throughout his childhood playing youth sports and spending time at the Boys Club. During high school he held part-time jobs at local businesses and was considering a future in carpentry.

On December 17, 1986, KJ’s life changed forever. At just seventeen, he was involved in a serious car accident with his girlfriend that left him with a traumatic brain injury and in a coma for six months. After regaining consciousness, KJ was transferred to New England Rehabilitation Hospital in Woburn, where he spent nearly two years in intensive therapy learning to communicate again and rebuild strength.

Although he was never able to regain the balance and mobility needed to walk independently, KJ remained determined, adapting to life using a wheelchair and continuing to push forward in his recovery.

Following rehabilitation, KJ completed his high school education through programs at Crotched Mountain and the Perkins School for the Blind, proudly graduating in 1992. In 1998, he moved into Warren House in Woburn, where he continued to build independence while staying closely connected with his family.

Nearly three decades later, KJ still happily resides at Warren House, sharing that it is the strong sense of community that keeps him here. His best friend, David, also lives at Warren House, and the two often take rides to CVS or nearby shops, grab coffee at Dunkin, and enjoy the everyday routines that make the residence feel like home.

Today, KJ has remained active both at home and in the community. Over the years, he has participated in programs at adult day care centers, volunteered at local nursing centers, and offered support at spinal cord rehabilitation facilities.

In his free time, he enjoys fishing at local ponds, taking rides around the property, cheering on the Patriots, and playing pool, a game he has loved since he was six years old. Now a member of the Moose Club, he still plays with his own pool stick whenever he can.

KJ also takes pride in being the very first person that Lindsay (now Director of Neuro-Wellness & Education and Internship Supervisor at SLI) worked with as an intern, a relationship that has come full circle over time.

“KJ is always up for a challenge and shows how people can continue to make functional gains even decades after their brain injury”, Lindsay shares. “He continues to push himself and chooses to see the bright side of his situation, keeping humor and lightheartedness at the center of his recovery. With the help of Neuro-Fit interns and staff, he continues to participate in activities he enjoys like a football toss or trivia.”

Known for his friendly sense of humor and easygoing nature, KJ values his independence, his friendships, and time with his family, including his two nephews and niece. At Warren House, he has built a life grounded in connection through routine, and the freedom to live life on his own terms.