Reaching new heights at the BHI Summit

Last week, members of the TRANSCENDENT Concussion Research Program joined researchers, clinicians, trainees, community members, and partners at the State of the Science Summit hosted by the University of Ottawa’s Brain-Heart Interconnectome (BHI) and the University of Ottawa.

The Summit showcased exciting new research exploring the connections between brain and heart health across the lifespan and provided opportunities to foster new collaborations across disciplines. TRANSCENDENT researchers contributed to several sessions throughout the event, highlighting emerging discoveries in concussion research and recovery. Team members shared research on autonomic dysfunction following concussion, the relationship between concussion symptoms and physiological responses, innovative approaches to concussion assessment and management, and ongoing efforts to improve outcomes through patient-oriented and community-engaged research.

We would also like to recognize two members of our Community Advisory Committee (CAC) for their contributions to the Summit. One of our youth advisors, Shyla, participated in a panel discussion with Dr. Roger Zemek and brought valuable lived experience perspectives to conversations about brain and heart health research. Additionally, one of our CAC members, Erin Fox, received the Patient Engagement Award, recognizing their outstanding contributions to advancing patient-oriented research and partnership. We are also proud to celebrate Dr. Nick Reed, who was honoured with the inaugural BHI Knowledge Mobilization Award for his leadership in bridging research, clinical practice, and community impact.

Thank you to the Brain-Heart Interconnectome, the University of Ottawa, organizers, speakers, and attendees for an inspiring event.