Recycling Pain: Pain to Purpose with Luke Bohnenberger

Read the transcript at https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-05/FALL-2024-BrainStorm_Recycling%20Pain_Pain%20to%20Purpose-LukeBohnenberger-TRANSCRIPT.pdf

Facing a mere five percent chance of survival after a devastating highway accident, Luke Bohnenberger's story is a powerful testament to human resilience. After being ejected from a vehicle, Luke underwent a critical craniotomy that would change his life forever.

In "Recycling Pain: Pain to Purpose" Luke shares how he transformed his traumatic brain injury experience into a mission to help others. Despite battling uncontrollable rage, suicidal thoughts, and the loss of his former identity, he discovered that rock bottom could become a foundation for something greater.  

Key highlights:
Survived against 5% odds after a critical accident
Navigated through emotional trauma and recovery
Founded Vision to Victory coaching program
Emphasizes turning pain into purpose
Advocates for sharing experiences to help others heal


The presentation, part of the quarterly virtual speaker Brainstorm series, is sponsored by the Northern New Jersey Traumatic Brain Injury System and Kessler Foundation. It was recorded on Friday, November 13, 2024.

View more Brainstorm speaker series videos at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL21CEB6CAC402EA50 

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