As anyone who has experienced severe trauma knows - it can be devastating for the victim, friends, and family. Many activities that were previously taken for granted can be a frustrating challenge.
Recently, however, Dr. Beth and I were lucky enough to participate in a truly fun and magical event. The Brooks Celebrate Life event, organized by Brooks Rehabilitation and Regional Medical 
Center Bayonet Point and sponsored by Bioness, was in honor of Trauma Awareness Month.
The evening kicked off with hostess and Physical Therapist Connie Garces sharing information about Brooks Rehabilitation, both the main facility in Jacksonville, FL and the outpatient facility in Hudson, FL where she is Center Manager. She introduced the trauma survivors who were in the audience, signified with large red, white, and blue ribbons. Also recognized were their family members and the rehabilitation specialists who care for them.
Connie Garces is a passionate and wonderfully talented therapist, but the highlight of the event was one of her patients, Bronson. Dressed in a suit, he stood in front of the group and delivered an honest, funny, heartfelt account of his recovery from traumatic brain injury. Public speaking is intimidating for the average person. Bronson was courageous to deliver his talk and willing to get a little help from the audience when he needed it. With multiple notes in front of him, Bronson talked about his recovery, his care, and his young daughter. It was one of the most heart-felt and moving things I have witnessed in a long time.
May 2015 is the 27th observance of Trauma Awareness Month. The American Trauma Society has declared this year's theme “3D Trauma Prevention” and focuses on contributors to motor vehicle crashes - Drugs/Drinking, Distraction and Drowsiness.
Vision is a critical part of life and it can be an important part of rehabilitation for a survivor of traumatic brain injury. Dr. Beth and I work in conjunction with other professionals to provide visual rehabilitation. It is complex work and some of the rewarding care that we provide. You can learn more about visual rehabilitation here.
-Dr. Nate
(Photo provided courtesy of Connie Garces, PT, DPT, CBIS)
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