About Us
About Us
On November 27, 2023, I survived a ruptured basilar apex brain aneurysm. By the Grace of God, my recovery has been a blessing, revealing a deeper purpose to give back and help others feel supported.
BDV also represents my why: my daughter Brooke, and grandchildren Dean and Vivianne. Brain aneurysms have impacted multiple generations of my family. My father passed away from an aneurysm, my daughter lives with an aneurysm, and I survived a rupture. Sharing our story helps raise awareness that aneurysms can run in families and underscores the importance of education and early detection.
Through care packages, connection, and awareness, BDV Foundation brings hope, support, and community to families across Kentucky.
We believe in bringing survivors and families together to share challenges, celebrate victories, and support one another. Our annual 18 for 18 Golf Tournament brings the community together to raise awareness and support this mission.
At its heart, BDV Foundation is about bringing hope, faith, and support to families when they need it most.
Karen Edwards
Founder • Brain aneurysm survivor • Advocate
Our Mission:
Breakthroughs, Discovery & Vision
Guided by Breakthrough, Discovery, and Vision, BDV Foundation raises awareness, supports patients and families, and contributes to research and advocacy to improve outcomes and save lives.
Lea Ann Haynes –
BDV Ruptured Brain Aneurysm Patient of the Year & Survivor of the Year
On June 9, 2025, I woke up feeling completely fine. Within one hour, I developed a headache that was the worst pain I had ever felt. It was so severe that I remember pouring water over my head, trying to ease the pain. My eyes hurt so badly that it was hard to keep them open.
I had my boyfriend take me to Baptist Health ER, where testing began, and I was informed that I had a brain bleed that would require surgery. I immediately began thinking of all the family members I had lost due to brain aneurysm ruptures: my father, grandfather, an aunt, and an uncle. My life did not flash before my eyes, but I did begin thinking about all the things I had not yet gotten to do in my life. I told my boyfriend to call my sisters and brother, and I was quickly whisked away for emergency treatment.
Dr. Christian Ramsey saved my life by placing four coils inside my ruptured Anterior Communicating Artery. I was told I would likely have headaches for a couple of months, but that my prognosis was good.
About four hours after I awoke from surgery, my vision became erratic, and I began vomiting. A clot had developed in my artery and traveled, causing a Medial Right Frontal stroke. I was then taken back for another procedure and underwent stent placement. When I awoke from that surgery, I was unable to move my left side. I was told the feeling would return, but that it would take time.
I spent the next couple of weeks in the Neuro ICU, followed by several more weeks in a rehabilitation hospital learning how to walk again and working with both speech and occupational therapists.
I have continued to improve and, after nearly six months, was able to return to work. This is all due to Dr. Ramsey and Dr. Evan Bennett for their skill and encouragement along the way, my family for their unwavering support, and God for placing me in their capable hands.
"I share my story because awareness matters, and early action saves lives."
What We Do
Emotional Support: Guiding patients and their loved ones through challenging times.
Community Resources: Connecting individuals to local healthcare providers, support groups, and educational programs.
Awareness & Research: Promoting understanding of brain aneurysms and supporting initiatives that drive better outcomes.
We provide patient support through care packages, lodging assistance, and financial aid requests to help families during medical crisis.Board of Directors
Susan Evancho
Secretary Hamburg, NY
Ranie Perkins
Treasurer Richmond, KY
Sandy Prater
Medical-Education Lexington, KY
Brooke And I
Jennifer Kanistras
jkanistras@gmail.com
Events and Fundraising
Join Us
Together, we can make a lasting impact. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, your support helps BDV Foundation continue its mission of care, hope, and stronger communities.