Welcome to the 2nd Annual International Summit on Repetitive Brain Trauma
From Awareness to Action: Changing the Narrative on Brain Trauma and Mental Illness
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives.
Frank J. Larkin is a decorated Navy SEAL veteran, former U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms, and lifelong public servant whose career has spanned the Secret Service, law enforcement, and national security. But it’s his personal mission that sets him apart. After the heartbreaking loss of his son Ryan, a decorated Navy SEAL who died by suicide from undiagnosed blast-induced brain injury, Larkin has become one of the nation’s most outspoken and passionate advocates for veteran brain health.
Today, Larkin leads a national movement to shine a light on the invisible wounds of war—raising awareness of blast trauma, fighting for better diagnostics, and demanding access to life-saving treatments for veterans. With the rare combination of elite military experience and a father’s resolve, Larkin brings urgency, insight, and hope to the fight for America’s warriors.
Our summit tells a story of connection and transformation.
✔️ Understanding the Invisible - Revealing the hidden impacts of repetitive brain trauma
✔️ Building Bridges - Connecting different affected populations and sharing solutions
✔️ Creating Visible Change - Transforming awareness into action through policy, practice, and advocacy
As our exclusive Title Sponsor, the The Patrick Risha CTE Awareness Foundation serves as the keystone that holds the entire event together—providing essential support that makes the summit possible.
The Keystone Bridge Builder stands at the forefront of our mission, symbolizing leadership, commitment, and a shared dedication to improving lives.
Following our landmark inaugural event, The Mac Parkman Foundation returns with the International Summit on Repetitive Brain Trauma —a two-day event dedicated to tackling the national crisis of repetitive brain trauma in both youth athletics and military service.
With a powerful lineup of experts, advocates, and survivors, this year’s conference bridges the gap between science, story, and systemic change—highlighting the dual threat of Repetitive Head Impacts (RHI) in adolescent sports and Repeated Blast Exposure (RBE) among veterans and service members