Survivors of Traumatic Brain Injuries Join NYC Marathon

Two young New Yorkers, both survivors of traumatic brain injuries, are preparing to run this Sunday’s City Marathon. Alexa Casciano, 24, and Christian Longo, 26, aim to raise awareness and funds for the New York State Brain Injury Association, honoring others who, unfortunately, cannot participate in the 42.2-mile event.

Longo shared his perspective on how we often take basic abilities for granted. “People complain about stairs, but we should be more grateful that we can even climb them,” he reflected, emphasizing that things could always be worse.

For Longo, this marathon holds special significance. After suffering a fall from a third-floor balcony in New Orleans in April 2021, he had to relearn everything — from walking to, well, just basic daily skills. At the time, he was a senior at Tulane University and remembers little about the incident.

Though only his skull was fractured, a subsequent hematoma caused profound changes in his life. “I was like a baby,” he admitted. The injury affected cognitive functions, making even simple tasks, like telling time, challenging.

“I didn’t fully grasp what happened until much later,” Longo noted, recognizing that he wasn’t the person he could have been without the injury. Interestingly, he hadn’t even considered running a marathon before his accident. It was his sister, Julia, who encouraged him to push his limits this year.

Together with Casciano, they’ve raised nearly $7,000 to support a nonprofit that aids individuals affected by brain injuries and promotes preventative measures. “This run isn’t just for me,” Longo emphasized. “It’s for those who can’t run — those with injuries who may be confined to wheelchairs.” He expressed gratitude for the opportunity he has now, vowing not to waste it.

Casciano echoes Longo’s sentiment. Living in TriBeCa, she has been motivated by the motto, “Do it for those who can’t.” Her own traumatic brain injury stemmed from being diagnosed with Lumiere syndrome, a rare bacterial infection that nearly claimed her life when she was just 16.

The infection spread to her lungs and brain, leading to multiple surgeries within a short time frame. It left her with a titanium plate in her skull and ongoing, often severe headaches. However, the ordeal also revealed her inner strength. “I feel lucky to be alive,” Casciano remarked, “and I want to honor those who weren’t as fortunate.”

With a determination forged through her struggles, she’s embraced a life of fulfillment, sharing, “You only live once, so try to experience everything you want.” This marathon will mark Casciano’s second; she completed the Los Angeles Marathon in March to prepare for the unique challenges of the New York City race.

Throughout the summer, she trained rigorously, even attempting a long run just days before undergoing surgery to address her lingering migraines, which have plagued her for years. Like Longo, she’s also working to raise awareness and funds for the cause. “Having gone through brain surgery, I know how lucky I am. Recovery is possible, and it’s important to inspire others,” she said.