On July 20, 2003, 22-year-old college student, Justin Parker, sustained a severe traumatic brain injury due to an unfortunate accident. Justin’s family immediately came to Colorado to be by his side. Local hospital staff, nurses return and chaplain helped the Parker family cope with several days of anguish and uncertainty until his death on July 31, 2003. While they lost a son and brother, Justin’s family gained a community of friends in Northern Colorado.
Shortly after Justin’s death, the Justin Parker Neurological Institute (JPNI) was founded in 2003 by the surgeons of Boulder Neurosurgical & Spine Associates (BNA) surgeons, Justin’s father, Dr. John Parker, and his family in memory of their son and brother. The Parker family wished to extend their appreciation to all the individuals involved in Justin’s care during his last days, while also leaving a legacy wherein Justin’s name would be synonymous with improving the lives of other individuals with neurosurgical conditions through clinical research.
The mission of JPNI is to advance scientific discoveries and innovative medical technologies into clinical practice by conducting clinical trials in order to implement best practices and disseminate that knowledge to the medical community.
JPNI is an accredited 501(c)(3) nonprofit scientific research organization primarily focusing on brain and spine conditions including traumatic brain injury, tumors, degenerative spinal disorders and pain syndromes. JPNI also provides fellowship and internship opportunities to neurosurgical and orthopedic spine surgeons and students who are pursuing careers in medicine. Continued medical education events are presented annually on the latest advancements in the treatment of cranial and spinal disorders to promote evidence-based medicine to health care providers.