Runner Raises More Than $11,000 for Brain Injury Patients

Photo ID: left to right Kristen Morgis, RN, Clinical Supervisor, Heinz Rehab Hospital; Robert Cole, PhD, Senior Vice President & Chief Analytics Officer, Allied Services; Jenn Fox, PT, Supervisor, Heinz Rehab Hospital; Karen Kearney, MSW, Vice President of Inpatient Rehabilitation, Allied Services; Atty. Bill Conaboy, President & CEO, Allied Services; Dr. John A.Kline, Jr., Medical Director, Heinz Rehab Hospital; Danny Kovalski, CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC.

Just 5 years after suffering a traumatic brain injury, Danny Kovalski returned to the facility that helped him with his recovery. Danny visited Heinz Rehab Hospital to present leadership and members of the therapy team with a donation for $11,301. He raised the funds in a matter of weeks after deciding to attempt the 4x4x48 challenge.

Danny not only set himself the goal of participating in the 2nd Annual 4x4x48 Challenge inspired led by athlete David Goggins, he successfully accomplished it. Starting on a particularly cold night in March, Danny ran 4 miles every 4 hours for 48 hours. The route that Danny chose took him past the site of the accident in Wilkes-Barre where he was hit by a truck while running.

The impact left Danny with a traumatic brain injury that required immediate surgery, numerous internal injuries, damaged vertebrae, severe road rash that covered his entire body. After spending 10 days in the ICU, he was transferred to Heinz Rehab Hospital in Wilkes-Barre, where he spent the next month learning how to walk, talk, read, write and take care of himself again.

"My recovery was remarkable. Looking back, it’s nothing short of miraculous. Years later, I still struggle with many things. Most you’d never notice. I have aches and pains that I shouldn’t have at 33 considering the care I gave myself."

Danny's successful athletic endeavor was a celebration of all that he has accomplished since the accident and a way to support others who are going through similar journeys.

"Danny's determination is impressive. This challenge was incredibly inspiring on a physical level, and for anyone to take on and succeed at this challenge is a huge achievement" commented Atty. Bill Conaboy, President & CEO of Allied Services. "We're grateful to Danny, his family, and to all those who supported his efforts and our patients."