Empowering Lives: Advocating for Brain Injury Awareness
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and resilience of individuals impacted by brain injuries.
Each year, millions around the globe confront the reality of brain injury, whether through accidents, strokes, or neurological conditions. These injuries, often invisible to the naked eye, wield a profound impact on individuals, altering their cognitive, physical, and emotional landscapes in ways unimaginable to many.
At Adeo, we recognize the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and providing a safe space for individuals and their loved ones to navigate the complexities of life after brain injury. Our mission extends beyond mere support; it encompasses empowerment. Through an array of programs and initiatives, we equip individuals with the tools and knowledge needed to reclaim agency over their lives, addressing needs such as housing, transportation, and more.
Understanding the Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern, with profound implications for individuals and communities across the United States. In 2020 alone, 176 Americans lost their lives each day due to TBI-related injuries. The prevalence of TBI in Colorado is particularly noteworthy, as the state ranks ninth in the nation for TBI-related fatalities and thirteenth for TBI-related hospitalizations.
Each year, nearly 5,000 individuals in Colorado are hospitalized due to TBI, and tragically, almost 1,000 lose their lives. Additionally, there are approximately 23,500 emergency room visits annually in Colorado attributed to TBI. Men are disproportionately affected, being twice as likely as women to sustain a TBI. Individuals ages fifteen to twenty-four and those over sixty-five face the highest risk of TBI.
It’s critical to recognize the leading causes of TBI, which include falls, motor vehicle-traffic crashes, being struck by or against objects, assaults, and other unknown factors. These incidents can result in moderate to severe brain injuries, leading to long-term consequences that impact individuals and their families.
Long-Term Challenges and Our Commitment at Adeo
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 6 million Americans depend on long-term assistance for daily tasks due to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Recognizing the significance of wellness and engaging activities, we provide a diverse range of options such as care coordination, art sessions, games, gardening, and trivia nights, all set in nurturing environments and made possible with our Say Yes to Joy! fund. Our goal is to serve as a safe haven where individuals can connect with others who understand their journey firsthand. Through peer support networks and social activities, we foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie, reminding survivors and their loved ones that they are not alone.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Brain Injury Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the silent but profound impact that brain injuries have on individuals, families, and communities worldwide. At Adeo, we stand committed to empowering those affected by brain injuries, offering not just support but tools and resources necessary to reclaim agency over their lives.
Join us in our mission to make a difference in the lives of those affected by traumatic brain injury. Your support makes a difference, whether it’s through donations, raising awareness, or sponsoring events like our annual Walk, Run, or Roll. Together, we can build a more inclusive and joyful community for all.