ABOUT PAUL

Paul Spence: A Triumph Over Adversity The Life of a Brain Injury Survivor

Find out more about Paul 

In 2012, Paul suffered a brain injury following an unprovoked attack in a bar. During his recovery he lost everything – including part of his identity, his career as an electrical engineer, his driving licence, and his relationships with those close to him, but he was determined not to let it ruin his life any further.

This journey of transformation saw Paul face setbacks, problems, and obstacles, but he was determined to rebuild his life and move himself out of the darkness of despair. Focusing on his fitness and taking on challenges – from running short distances to inviting friends to join him on longer runs – Paul celebrated each small achievement. He developed a positive mindset and focused on his weekly progress.

During his recovery, Paul decided he wanted to learn more about the brain and brain health. As his fitness challenges gathered momentum and he started raising funds to support other brain injury survivors, Paul launched P.A.U.L for Brain Recovery. The charity has received great support from the NHS, family, friends and business leaders, which has enabled the charity to grow from strength to strength across the Humber region.

As well as the charity helping to make life easier for people with brain injuries, Paul wanted to use his story to educate others. Now, Paul takes his story into the community. From the criminal justice system to educational establishments and commercial businesses, Paul Talks helps to change behaviour, encourages positive thinking, and shows how small steps in life can make a real difference.

PAUL’S STORY

2012

The Incident

Paul suffers severe brain injury, following an unprovoked attack in a bar

2013

Rehabilitation in progress

Loss of career & relationship breakdown

2016

Paul founds P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery

A charity that provides vital services in the community for people affected by acquired brain injury

2020

Paul founds Paul Talks

Taking his story to organisations who can benefit from sharing in his lessons

2022

A Decade of Progress and Growth

P.A.U.L for Brain Recovery recognises ten years since Paul’s accident

2023

Championing Brain Injury Awareness

Paul and his team attend Parliament to champion improvement in brain injury services

2012

The Incident

Paul suffers severe brain injury, following an unprovoked attack in a bar

2013

Rehabilitation in progress

Loss of career & relationship breakdown

2016

Paul founds P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery

A charity that provides vital services in the community for people affected by acquired brain injury

2020

Paul founds Paul Talks

Taking his story to organisations who can benefit from sharing in his lessons

2022

A Decade of Progress and Growth

P.A.U.L for Brain Recovery recognises ten years since Paul’s accident

2023

Championing Brain Injury Awareness

Paul and his team attend Parliament to champion improvement in brain injury services