It is Brain Awareness Week. Sadly traumatic brain injury has seen extensive coverage in the world’s media with the tragic death of Natasha Richardson, as a result there now is a greater awareness of how traumatic brain injury which may initially only cause temporary confusion and headache, can be fatal. Immediate treatment is essential after a brain injury because the initial damage caused by swelling often is irreversible
I am personally touched by this family’s sadness. 18 months ago I received a telephone call that is every parents worst nightmare. My son had sustained a traumatic brain injury after hitting his head in a fall. He briefly lost consciousness and was admitted to hospital where he was found to have bleeding in the brain. His injury was potentially fatal. My son didn’t understand the severity of his injuries, and wanted to leave hospital but the immediate medical intervention and thorough assessment is why I know my son is alive today. For 24 hours we waited to see if the bleeding would stop or if surgery to relieve pressure was necessary. The bleeding stopped. My wife and I spent 3 very worrying days with our son in ICU (who kept insisting he was fine and couldn’t understand why he was there). I am so thankful because my story has a happy ending; my son has made a 100% recovery. My heartfelt condolences go out to the Richardson/ Redgrave families.
