Brain Injury is often referred to as "the Silent Epidemic." Estimates vary, but by all accounts 300,000 to 600,000 people who sustain head injuries annually are left with noticeable physical, social and cognitive deficits. Those injuries are severe enough to prevent them from returning to their former level of functioning. Ultimately, the solution to this epidemic is prevention. Although some injuries can not be prevented, many can be.
Peter was a neurologist, when he decided his
riding helmet didn't need a chin strap. After all he had a good horse and he was a
experienced rider and those straps are uncomfortable and ugly. So he cut his out. When his
horse didn't land solidly after a jump in the forest and slid sideways, Peter fell off,
his helmet fell off and his unprotected head hit a tree stump. Now, Peter is scheduled to
visit his horse and the new owner's barn once a week, if he doesn't have one of his
numerous seizures. He works everyday to become well enough to live with his wife and
children.
Anyone who is touched by the reality and consequences of a brain injury will never be the
same. Their lives will be changed forever.
Revised: Saturday, February 23, 2002 08:42 AM