Welcome to my corner of the web. My name is Rex Emerson, and my journey has been one of resilience, creativity, and advocacy. For over 45 years, I’ve pursued my passion as a professional photographer, capturing moments that tell stories far beyond the image itself. But my personal story is one of overcoming and enduring the long-term effects of a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) sustained during a major racing accident on November 22, 1979.
That crash changed my life in ways I never could have imagined. I still suffer from the complications of that day, and while it has been a hard road, it has also ignited a deep purpose in my life: to raise awareness of the challenges faced by those living with TBI.
Having managed much of my rehabilitation alongside dedicated specialists, I know firsthand the daily struggles and battles TBI survivors face. What makes it even harder for many of us is the isolation that comes with the condition. Relationships are often strained because people don’t always understand what we go through on a daily basis. This can lead to feelings of abandonment by family members, friends, and loved ones, which makes the journey to recovery even more challenging.
I’ve experienced those struggles personally—yet I’ve worked hard to turn those negatives into growth opportunities. I want to be a voice for others like me, to show that while our injuries may not be visible, they are very real. We deserve understanding, and I am hopeful that the stigma surrounding brain injuries will one day disappear.
Through my photography, writing, and advocacy, I aim to support and uplift those who, like me, are working through the invisible battle of TBI. You are not alone. Together, we can bring more awareness to the complexities of living with a brain injury and help others understand the reality behind the smiles we put on every day.
Thank you for visiting, and I hope my journey can inspire you or someone you know to find strength, resilience, and hope.
Rex Emerson
TBI Survivor, Former Racer, Professional Photographer, and Advocate