Community Engagement Advisor

Mrs. Liana “Lee” M. Staniland

Liana (Lee) M. Staniland sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in 1978 while horseback riding. During the incident, Lee, hit her forehead with a tree branch, and subsequently hit the back of her head when she fell on the ground.  As a result of this event she was in a coma.  Lee woke up 6 weeks later and realized that the right side of her body was completely paralyzed. Ms. Staniland is devoted to making things better for others with TBI and in being a good example for this community and recognizes the importance of proper supports after a brain injury.  In 1995, Lee was part of the first seed to established a brain injury support group in Ventura, California.  The support group grew to become its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.  Today it is known as the Brain Injury Center of Ventura County (BICVC).  Lee’s commitment to others with brain injuries is evident as she served in the BICVC as a board member for numerous years.  In addition, she has served as the BICVC President of the Board for a year. Lee continues to tirelessly advocate for people with brain injuries.  Regularly, she is invited to speak to the Crisis Intervention Team at the Ventura County Police Department. She currently resides in Oxnard, CA with her husband of 23 years.