Wheeling attorney, Bob Fitzsimmons and Steelers Hall of Fame Center Mike Webster took on the NFL 24 years ago to make them acknowledge the link between football, concussions and permanent brain damage. Because of their work, changes all the way down to youth sports have been implemented and the conversations surrounding concussion evaluation and treatment continue.
A Battle Within is an organization committed to aiding individuals, caregivers and families experiencing Post Concussion Syndrome. Pattiann was a recent guest on their podcast. Click here for the full conversation!
Dr. Nate Romesburg of Romesburg Physical Therapy and Sports Fitness talks about the importance of sleep for everyone, but especially those recovering from a concussion.
Dr. Romesburg’s website: https://physicaltherapyfitness.us/
Dr. Kristin Szewczyk, the Assistant Executive Director/Title IX Coordinator for the Intermediate Unit 1 covering Washington Country, talks about mental health changes after a person has suffered a traumatic brain injury or concussion. They commonly experience changes in thinking, behavior, communication and feeling.
Holly Marra, LPC explains that our thoughts influence how we are feeling, and that we do have some control over this. Using evidence-based thinking can help to alleviate anxiety and allow us to feel better.
To connect with Holly, please visit her website: https://www.marratherapy.com/
Emotional upset can be overwhelming for anyone, especially people who have sustained a brain injury. Holly Marra, LPC discusses the importance of working with a licensed professional to manage and reduce these feelings, while also improving your quality of life.
To connect with Holly, please visit her website: marratherapy.com
Pattiann Berton explains the normalcy of mental health issues following a brain injury or concussion and suggests some resources for help.
A middle school nurse and guidance counselor both offer insight on how a child’s concussion is handled at school.
Establishing communication with your child’s school is a key piece to returning to activity and concussion recovery. This video explains the role of the school nurse, counselor and administrator, and how best to implement accommodations.
As a school administrator, Christian has become keenly aware of the effects of brain injuries and concussions on a child’s education. He’s made a commitment to improve this process for everyone involved, the child, the family and the school.
Concussion diagnosis can be done by sophisticated medical means, but it’s often the people around us that notice changes in our behavior and cognition that can alert us to potential problems.
Check out Dr. Romesburg’s website at physicaltherapyfitness.us
Dr. Nate Romesburg, DPT of Romesburg Physical Therapy & Sports Fitness outlines a wide range of concussions symptoms.
Check out Dr. Romeburg’s website at physicaltherapyfitness.us
// Part 7 in a 7 Part Series //
In the final video of this series, Patrick is finally diagnosed with a brain injury. The benefit of hindsight shows that he had every symptom of an untreated concussion. IMPACTED, INC. was formed so that no other patient and family would have to endure such a long road to recovery. When concussions are identified and treated early, the recovery is generally much quicker, so please share our organization so that we can spread the word about proper diagnosis, treatment and resources.
// Part 6 of a 7 Part Series //
As Patrick continues to make cognitive improvements, he does well in school. Though physically and visually impaired, most of his teachers provide him the accommodations he needs to succeed. However, the Keystone exam presents a problem – he can’t see to read the test and he is not proficient in Braille. Watch and listen as the first major victory for the Berton family and all other families with similar limitations is realized.
// Part 5 of a 7 Part Series //
As Pattiann travels to every major medical center possible to find answers to unlock what’s happening with Patrick, the family is stressed. Tom takes a new position with his company so he can travel less and be home with their three younger boys. The family’s faith and the steady guidance of Father Carmen D’Amico pulled them through this difficult time.