As the number one cause of death and disability for children and young adults in the United States, Pediatric Acquired Brain Injury (PABI) is a life-altering and oftentimes debilitating condition. By definition, it is caused by post-birth (or non-genetic) events that compromise its victims’ cognitive, physical, emotional, and social capabilities.
In the video below, Patrick Donohue, father of five-year-old Sarah Jane, talks about the life and care of a brain-injured child, and points parents with children affected by PABI to The Sarah Jane Foundation for information and support. To see the site for yourself, click here.
In the final video of this three-part series, the Brain Injury Association of New York talks to medical professionals and TBI victims about the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury. Take a look for inspiration and advice on how best to cope with this lifelong condition.
In the first of this three-part series, the Brain Injury Association of New York talks to three veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom—Tracy, Eddie, and Brian—about life after TBI.
A portion of TBI Today‘s Spring issue this year was devoted to providing advice for brain-injured individuals struggling to set and attain goals in the aftermath of their injuries. Listed below are the newsletter’s most relevant tips:
When setting goals, look at recent progress instead of making comparisons.
Take small steps. If you have a large goal you want to accomplish, break it down into little pieces that you can accomplish. Working one step at a time, you’ll come closer to reaching your larger goal.
Move ahead one small step at a time from where you are right now. For example, if you are thinking about going back to school, start with one class then add more if you do well. Taking one small step at a time will provide more chances for success. Success will make you feel more confident to handle the next step forward.
Remember that most people expect too much and set their goals too high. Scale your goals back from what you initially plan.
Ask trusted family, friends, and professionals for input about whether or not your goals are reasonable.
Remember that some goals are too big for one person to handle on their own. They may take the help of lots of people. Realize your limitations and ask for help reaching goals when you need it.
Remember that setting reasonable goals increases the chances of getting what you want.
Congratulate yourself and give yourself credit for small successes.
