FABI Foundation

Mission Statement

The FABI Foundation is dedicated to advancing the diagnosis and treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) through innovative research and clinical trials. Our mission is to transform the landscape of TBI care, enhance the lives of those affected, and empower communities through education and awareness. Together, we commit to fighting against brain injury and creating a future where effective solutions are accessible to all.

Rapid Proof of Concept

Bring repurposing candidates to clinical proof of concept.

Cost-Effective Management of clinical programs

Manage clinical programs at low costs.

Funding Collaboration

Fund qualified programs in academic and commercial settings.

How FABI Works

Strategic Partnerships
Collaborations with commercial manufacturers are planned after clinical proof of concept is achieved.
Guided by Expert Oversight
Our Scientific Advisory Board ensures projects are selected based on scientific promise and potential impact.
Not-for-Profit Mission
We pursue high-risk, high-reward projects that for-profit entities often avoid.
Strategic Partnerships
Collaborations with commercial manufacturers are planned after clinical proof of concept is achieved.

Our Approach

FABI seeks to close the treatment gap by repurposing therapies with established safety profiles. By advancing technologies we can improve treatment efficacy. Through the funding of clinical trials and innovative assessment methodologies, FABI works to accelerate the development of effective treatments for patients with brain injuries.

The Need for TBI Treatment

Despite the high incidence of TBIs from sports, falls, and accidents, current treatment options are limited. Promising therapies are underfunded and undeveloped. FABI Foundation steps in to fill this gap, repurposing safe existing compounds and using new methodologies to bring effective treatment options to those in need.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE):

Key Facts - North America

Traumatic Brain Injury in Canada

~165,700 new cases each year – equivalent to about 455 people every day experiencing a traumatic brain injury.
Source: Brain Injury Canada (estimate extrapolated from incidence data)

1.6% of Canadians aged 12+approximately 476,000 to 448,000 people – reported having at least one concussion in 2019, according to a national health survey.
Source: Statistics Canada, 2019 Canadian Community Health Survey

Between 2018 and 2023, there were over 127,000 hospitalizations for TBI in Canada (excluding Quebec) – averaging ~21,200 per year.
Source: Public Health Agency of Canada – Injury Surveillance Program

During the same period, Canadian emergency departments recorded ~823,884 visits related to TBI – about 137,000 per year.
Source: Government of Canada – Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program Note: Hospitalization and ER figures include all severities of TBI and exclude many concussions that are treated outside hospitals or go unreported.

Traumatic Brain Injury in the United States

214,110 hospitalizations were recorded in 2020 for traumatic brain injuries.
Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

69,473 people died due to TBI-related injuries in 2021.
Source: CDC, National Vital Statistics System

An estimated 283,000 children visit U.S. emergency departments each year for sports- and recreation related TBIs (2010-2016).

Note: These figures do not include TBIs treated in urgent care, outpatient clinics, or cases that go unreported, so the real total is likely higher.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) & Sports-Related Brain Injury

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease linked to repeated head impacts and concussions.

It has been diagnosed post-mortem in over 90% of former NFL players whose brains were donated for research.
Source: Boston University Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) Center

Similar risks are documented in hockey, boxing, rugby, and other contact sports, with increasing focus on prevention, early detection, and treatment.

Note: CTE can only be definitively diagnosed after death, but advances in imaging and biomarkers are moving research toward earlier detection.

Why These Numbers Matter

TBI is often called a “silent epidemic” – most injuries are invisible, underreported, or misdiagnosed.

Early diagnosis, better treatment technologies, and continued research into conditions like Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) are crucial to improving outcomes and quality of life for survivors.

Support for innovative clinical trials and new diagnostic tools is essential to change the future of brain injury care.

Sources

  • Brain Injury Canada
  • Statistics Canada – Canadian Community Health Survey 2019
  • Government of Canada – Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Traumatic Brain Injury Data
  • Boston University – Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) Center
  • Scientific Advisory Board
  • Board Of Directors
  • Management
Robert BenderChairman, Advisory Board
Scientific Advisory Board
Robert Bender is an accomplished leader with over 40 years of experience in life sciences and healthcare, specializing in commercializing innovative technologies. He has co-founded and served in executive roles at several companies, including Bio Logicals, and Neurochem. As the founder and Chair of Revivo Therapeutics, he focuses on clinical-stage assets for CNS indications, and as Chair and CEO of Banting Corp., he is developing a new class of nutritional supplements.
Dr. Donald WeaverMD, PhD, FRCPC, FCAHS Advisor
Scientific Advisory Board
Dr. Donald Weaver, is a distinguished medical professional and clinical neurologist dedicated to advancing epilepsy research and treatment. A graduate of Queen’s University, he has extensive training in both medicine and organic chemistry, specializing in the development of novel therapies. Currently, he serves as Director and Senior Scientist at the Krembil Research Institute, and holds a professorship at the University of Toronto across multiple disciplines. Additionally, Dr. Weaver is the Chief Medical Officer of Treventis Corporation and a leading voice in the epilepsy community, having previously served as President of Epilepsy Canada.
Yakov KoganPhD, MBA Advisor
Scientific Advisory Board
Yakov Kogan is an accomplished biotechnology executive with over two decades of experience in corporate strategy, financing, and drug development, guiding therapies from early R&D through Phase III/BLA. He has led private and public biotech companies, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, advancing preclinical and clinical programs in oncology, radiation protection, and CNS-related indications, and secured significant DoD and NIH grant support. With deep expertise in translational research, regulatory strategy, and partnership building, Yakov brings a proven ability to bridge science, clinical development, and funding - well aligned with the mission of the FABI Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board.
Dr. Alexander A, GrunsfeldM.D. Advisor
Scientific Advisory Board
Dr. Alexander A,Grunsfeld,M.D. is a highly respected neurologist and vascular neurology specialist, who is the medical director for Neurosciences at Sentara Healthcare based in Virginia. He earned his M.D. from Rutgers Medical School in 2002, followed by a residency in neurology and fellowship training in neurocritical care at the University of Virginia. With over two decades of clinical experience. Dr. Grunsfeld is board certified in both Neurology and Vascular Neurology. He is recognized for his work in stroke care leveraging advanced telemedicine and Al-driven imaging to improve rapid diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
Dr. Allan M. GreenM.D., PhD., J.D. Advisor
Scientific Advisory Board
Dr. Allan M. Green, is a distinguished physician, scientist, and legal expert with decades of experience at the intersection of medicine, biotechnology, and regulatory affairs. Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Nuclear Medicine, he has held senior leadership roles in major medical product companies and founded innovative ventures in neuro-imaging and life sciences. Dr. Green is widely recognized for his expertise in navigating complex FDA approval pathways, clinical trial development and translational research. His multidisciplinary background and strategic insight make him a valuable contributor to advancing research, policy, and innovation in the field of traumatic brain injury.
Christian SauvageauMember of Board
Board Of Directors
Christian Sauvageau is a healthcare executive and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and medical technology. A former Vice-President at Merck Canada, he is now President of CSCGI Inc. and CEO of Reveal Life Science, a precision-medicine company developing AI-powered diagnostic technologies for surgery and brain health. Christian has led major initiatives in neuroscience, imaging, and cognitive monitoring, reflecting his long-standing commitment to improving outcomes for individuals affected by traumatic brain injury and neurological disorders.
Dr. Sonja JevricMember of Board
Board Of Directors
Dr. Sonja Jevric is a duly and fully licensed Chiropractor with the College of Chiropractors of Ontario and a member of the Canadian Chiropractic Association since 1997. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Toxicology from the University of Toronto and a Masters’ degree in Psychotherapy and Counselling from Yorkville University. She has over 28 years of experience of clinical experience, assessing and treating patients including those suffering with traumatic brain injuries. She is certified in AMA Catastrophic Impairment and has extensive experience as a Case Manager in Ontario, with over 20 years of experience in this role, advocating for clients with traumatic brain injuries.
Magaly BianchiniMember of Board
Board Of Directors
Magaly Bianchini is a seasoned business leader with a proven track record in real estate development, construction, and renewable energy initiatives. As the former President of Leader Capital Corp., she spearheaded key projects, including the successful development of land in Ontario and Quebec and a 200 megawatt wind farm.Her longstanding role on the advisory board of a retirement home company showcases her commitment to community and sustainability, making her an exceptional candidate for the FABI Foundation Board of Directors.
Grace Casale
Management
Grace Casale is the President of the FABI Foundation. She has a long history of leadership and community service, including time as President and Chair of the Etobicoke Distress Centres. With a strong background in fundraising and capital markets, Grace has also worked as a consultant in the medical sector, helping companies grow through sales, marketing, and strategic partnerships. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about connecting people and resources to create meaningful impact. Grace now brings this dedication and experience to the Foundation, where her focus is on advancing its mission and supporting the communities it serves.

Join Us

Join Us in the Fight Against Brain Injury
Whether you’re an athlete, a healthcare supporter, or someone passionate about advancing treatment for brain injuries, your involvement makes a difference. Help us accelerate the path to safer, effective treatments.

Support the FABI Foundation

At the FABI Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of generosity. Your contributions enable us to create lasting impact and foster positive change within our communities. We invite you to join our mission by considering a donation that reflects your commitment to a better tomorrow.

Elevate Possibilities

Your gift of $2,500, $5,000 and $10,000, or more can help us drive essential initiatives, support innovative programs, and empower underserved populations. Together, we can unlock new opportunity, inspire hope, and champion the causes that matter most.

Join Our Exclusive Circle of Benefactors

When you choose to support the FABI Foundation, you become part of a group of visionaries, including corporate partners, professional athletes and individuals who have made substantial commitments to the treatment of brain injuries. Your contribution will support our current endeavours and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of treatments which address the major medical problem of TBI and its consequences.

Ways to Donate

Embark on a Journey of Discovery

To discuss options for your donation or to explore partnership opportunities, please contact us directly at grace@fabifoundation.com

Together, let us pave the way for enduring change and inspire others to join us on this remarkable journey.

Thank you for considering a transformative contribution to the FABI Foundation. Your support empowers us to envision a brighter future.

Submissions for Innovative Technologies and Clinical Trials in Brain Injury

We are seeking innovative solutions for brain injury treatment.

The FABI Foundation is dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of brain injuries through funding innovative technologies and supporting groundbreaking clinical trials. We invite researchers, organizations, and technology developers to present their proposals for projects that display the potential to make a significant impact in this critical area of health

Opportunity for Funding

The Foundation is currently accepting proposals for technologies and clinical trials focused on brain injury rehabilitation, recovery, and related therapeutic and diagnostic interventions. We are interested in projects that aim to:

  • Develop innovative therapeutic technologies
  • Conduct clinical trials on new treatment methods
  • Enhance neuro-rehabilitation practices
  • Explore novel approaches to brain injury diagnostics

Submission Guidelines

To be considered for funding, please submit a single page summary that includes:

  • A brief overview of your technology or study (one or two paragraphs)
  • A clear outline of the funding required and its planned use
  • Expected outcomes and timelines for your project
  • Clear contact information (email is sufficient)

By submitting you proposal to FABI you agree that FABI shall have no obligations with respect to any proposal ; we will inform you as to next steps appropriate.

Get in Touch

Want to know more about the FABI Foundation? Send us a message and we will get back to you.