The team at Heninger Garrison Davis held our second annual “Brain Freeze Challenge” in conjunction with our community partner, Alabama Head Injury Foundation (AHiF), to bring awareness to the many challenges faced by those who have suffered from a traumatic brain injury. Scott Powell, Executive Director of AHiF, was on hand to share the many benefits that the foundation provides to people who have suffered a traumatic brain or spinal injury. AHIF’s incoming Birmingham Regional Board president is HGD attorney, Brandy Robertson.
One of the specialized practice areas for HGD is Brain and Spinal Injury, and the team often works with clients who have suffered devastating injuries. Michelle Lunsford was the special guest speaker who spoke to the staff of HGD about her experience with losing her daughter six months ago due to distracted driving.
Distracted driving continues to be the number one leading cause of car accidents in America. Talking on the phone, texting, eating, reading, grooming, and talking are just some of the ways drivers get distracted behind the wheel. Additionally, motor vehicle accidents are the 3rd leading cause of Traumatic Brain Injury. Michelle’s message about distracted driving is an important and timely one. Dr. Tyler Bell and Dr. Ben McManus from the UAB TRIP lab were also on hand with the distracted driving simulator.
One way to help with recovery from a TBI is to exercise the brain with puzzles, riddles, and other cognitive games. The theme for HGD’s Brain Freeze Challenge this year was “Riddle Me This, Riddle Me That,” and included a contest to solve a list of the Riddlers’ riddles. Jeanie Sleadd won the contest, and Brian Stack and Caroline Hollingsworth tied for 2nd place.
One of the life-altering side-effects involved in a TBI is a similar aching in the skull to what is recognized as the “brain freeze” that occurs after consuming a cold item too quickly. For that reason, the Brain Freeze Challenge helps bring awareness to what those who are suffering from a TBI may experience, as well as highlight the AHiF resources available to those who have experienced one.
If you would like to contribute to the Alabama Head Injury Foundation, please follow the below link to make a tax-free contribution.
Brandy Robertson AHiF Giving Page
About AHiF:
A true 5013-C non-profit agency, AHIF employs Resource Coordinators across the state who work with clients and their caregivers.
Specific services include the following:
1. Identification of local resources to aid with home modification and/or independent living.
2. Support in securing appropriate Medicaid/Medicare/Disability payments.
3. Financial Management
4. Support in securing donated or discounted medical equipment
5. Recreational Support Group meetings for clients and their caregivers.
6. AHIF provides respite care to caregivers, giving them, at no cost, a brief break from the demands of 24/7 care of a loved one.
7. AHIF provides a weekend camp for survivors at Camp ASCCA. Camp provides survivors with a special and unique time of recreation and fellowship.
