Press Statement
The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) extends its sympathy to family members and friends who lost a loved one in the unspeakable tragedy in Tucson , Ariz.
Traumatic brain injury, also known as TBI, is an alteration in brain function or other evidence of brain pathology caused by an external force. About 1.7 million children and adults sustain a TBI in the U.S.
A gunshot to the head tends to create focal, rather than diffuse, brain injuries. Depending on the bullet’s penetration point and trajectory, the patient may experience physical, cognitive or behavioral impairments. Injuries to the left side of the brain, as is the case for Congresswoman Giffords, may cause decreased control over right-sided body movements; difficulties in speaking or understanding language, trouble with memory or sequencing or impaired logic; and depression or anxiety. Physical, occupational and speech therapy, as well as cognitive rehabilitation and psychological counseling, will help Ms. Giffords restore as much brain function as possible and perhaps return to work and former social roles.
BIAA offers a nationwide network of chartered state affiliates including the BIA of Arizona, that are readily available to provide support, information and resources regarding brain injury. A toll-free hotline is also available through our National Brain Injury Information Center (NBIIC) to those needing assistance at 1-800-444-6443.
The Brain Injury Association of Illinois is a chartered state affiliate of the BIA of America and member of the NBIIC program. The BIA of Illinois provides information and resources, educational programs, injury prevention programs, summer camp program, advocacy and support services. The toll-free phone number is (800)699-6443 and the website is http://www.biail.org/. The office can be also contacted at info@biail.org.
