The awards, hosted by Headway – the brain injury association, featured stories from extraordinary people, such as Mark Kennedy, a brain injury survivor who has now run over 100 half marathons, Michelle Kelly, a hard-working carer who has devoted her life to helping others, and Dean Harding, who has shown exceptional dedication to supporting fellow brain injury survivors.
The event was hosted by acclaimed sports journalist Sam Peters, with awards being presented by double Olympic gold medallist, James Cracknell.
Headway’s Chief Executive, Luke Griggs, said: “Brain injury can have a devastating impact both on an individual and the people close to them; survivors often face challenges such as memory loss, debilitating fatigue and loss of language and movement.
“Imagine one day waking up and finding you must learn to walk and talk again, that your memory is foggy, and you can’t do the things you are used to doing. It seems unimaginable, but this is a reality for many brain injury survivors. Every day we see people who have carried out incredible acts of compassion, bravery, and strength and this is our chance to recognise some of them.
“We firmly believe that together we are stronger, and the Headway awards really showcase just how true this is. It is because of the support of people like our award winners and finalists, that we are able to help so many people affected by brain injury.
"We are thrilled to be able to honour some of our Headway heroes today.”
The Headway awards paid tribute to the inspirational achievements of brain injury survivors, carers, volunteers, and campaigners.
There were four awards categories:
- Alex Richardson Achiever of the Year sponsored by Slater & Gordon
- Carer of the Year sponsored by Barr Ellison LLP
- Volunteer of the Year sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors
- Stephen McAleese Outstanding Contribution to Headway Award sponsored by No5 Barristers Chambers
Each of the award winners have been chosen by a selection panel.
“Our winners represent just a small sample of the wonderful people we work with every day” Luke continued, “the awards also recognise the truly remarkable support we receive from the entire Headway community.
“We hope the nation will join us in celebrating and help us to applaud everyone who ensures Headway remains a beacon of support to those in need.”
The winners of each category were presented with an engraved silver plate.
2022 Headway Awards winners
Mark Kennedy
A brain injury survivor from Northants who has run over 100 half marathons, delivered inspirational speeches across the UK, and co-authored four books. Mark won the Alex Richardson Achiever of the Year, sponsored by Slater & Gordon.
Dean Harding
A brain injury survivor from East London who secured £140,000 of funding for an early intervention initiative and has made it his life’s mission to help others. Dean won the Stephen McAleese Outstanding Contribution to Headway, sponsored by No5 Barristers Chambers.
Michelle Kelly
A devoted carer from Sefton who became her partner’s primary carer after he sustained a traumatic brain injury. Alongside caring for her partner, Michelle is an integral part of her local Headway charity, helping to organise events and days out as well as running support groups for brain injury survivors. Michelle won the Carer of the Year, sponsored by Barr Ellison LLP.
Michael Condon
A retired accountant from Leicester who worked tirelessly to transform his local Headway during the covid pandemic. Michael won the Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors.
