The brain is the greatest organic computer to which we understand a very small fraction of.
The Brain Injury Association of America has run a campaign called “Not Alone,” because that is exactly how those suffering should feel – that they are not alone in this battle.
With June serving as the month that we observe traumatic brain injuries and work to raise awareness to this silent epidemic that plagues hundreds of thousands of people a year – here is a bit of information to help provide some more insight towards brain injuries.
What is a traumatic brain injury?
A brain injury is unlike any other injury in the body, where one moment the person is normal and the next moment life has abruptly changed. What makes the process difficult is that no two brain injuries are alike, so symptoms may appear immediately, or might not show up for weeks. In the first few weeks after a brain injury, swelling, bleeding or changes in brain chemistry often affect the function of healthy brain tissue. Car accidents and falls are two of the top reasons on how people sustain a brain injury.
“Our brain defines who we are and the consequences of a brain injury can affect all aspects of our lives, including our personality.”
What to Watch Out For
If you know of someone who has suffered from a brain injury – it’s important to watch out for these warning signs.
- Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall.
- Appears dazed or stunned.
- Forgets an instruction, is confused about an assignment or position.
- Moves clumsily.
- Answers questions slowly.
- Loses consciousness (even briefly).
- Shows mood, behaviour, or personality changes.
TBI: By the Numbers
- There are approximately 1.5 million people in the U.S. and in Canada as well who suffer from a traumatic brain injury each year.
- 50,000 people die from TBI each year
- 85,000 people suffer long-term disabilities.
- In the U.S., more than 5.3 million people live with disabilities caused by TBI.
- Wearing a helmet while riding a bicycle can reduce the risk of brain injury by 88%
It’s time we remove the stigma
Although brain injuries aren’t tangible, they affect not only the survivor, but the entire family, friends and community. Statistics alone indicate that 100,000 Canadians will experience a brain injury each year and research and support programs for those with acquired brain injuries are having a tough time to keep up to that pace. It’s difficult for people with traumatic brain injuries to put this into words and often times leave them to handle this alone.
If someone you love experiences a traumatic brain injury you quickly learn how complex the issues are, in terms of medical care your loved one requires and your legal case.
The personal injury lawyers at Harris Law understand the extensive and complex needs your loved one has after experiencing a TBI. We are thoroughly committed to doing whatever it takes to get you the compensation you deserve, whether that means helping you get insurance benefits or filing a lawsuit on your behalf.