Children with Brain Injuries Need Time,Tenderness and Rehabilitation
Although the thought of an inactive child concerns most of us, the fact of the matter is we need to guide our children into activities with smart safety measures unthought of in previous years. One of the most serious children’s injuries is a brain injury. Many advances have been made in sports medicine, but the reality is our children can be and are effected permanently.
Injuries can range from a scrape to a concussion, which fortunately are taken much more seriously today. This is in part due to the fact that we know more about these injuries and have a greater understanding of how to treat them. Children engaged in any type activity, as well as adults, are at risk for the more severe accidents that seem more commonly reported today. An Australian study done on TBI, or traumatic brain injury, “shows that many may actually end up with some lasting deficits.” From the Vitals article done by msnbc.com:
These new data suggest that the majority of these kids will have long-term problems, says the study’s lead author Vicki Anderson, a researcher at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute in Melbourne. And while there was some ‘spontaneous’ recovery, those who had access to rehab did better. It appears that, after a protracted recovery period, these children gradually stabilize and begin to make some developmental gains, suggesting that even many years post-insult, intervention may be effective.
It is critical that parents note the so called “red flags” for more severe brain unjury or structural injuries such as a skull fracture or a subdural hematoma. This knowledge is fortunately bringing more people, adult and children, to the ER seeking treatment.
Excercise is a must for all and establishing good excercise habits is necessary for our childrens future health. Teaching the rules and technique of a sport is necessary and does in fact lead to playing safely, or rather safer than without instruction. But we should expect that those teaching understand that the future safety of our children is the real trophy. A trophy that will lead to a healthier nation, a nation that protects what is most dear to all of us – our children.
Posted by 12:36 pm
Ben Coleman Named Safety Advisor to Sun ‘n Fun’s President
Aviation expert, Ben Coleman, a frequent contributor to this blog, has been named Safety Advisor to the President of SUN ‘n FUN. In this role, Ben will serve as the resident safety advisor contributing to all phases of SUN ‘n FUN and its Florida Air Museum’s operations. President John R.”Lites” Leenhouts made the announcement last month online at the Sun ‘n Fun website with a great article stating his dedication to safety:
I am dedicated to advance SUN ‘n FUN’s long-term commitment to safety to the next level, says Lites Leenhouts, SUN ‘n FUN’s new CEO, and the opportunity to work with Ben Coleman to review our entire operation will yield significant benefits to our safety culture. Our commitment to safety is one of the cardinal values in the day-to-day operations of our campus. It is paramount in the operation of our annual International Fly-In & Expo, says Lites.
As stated on it’s website:
SUN ‘n FUN has been promoting aviation since our first fly-in in 1975. What began with a small group of dedicated aviation enthusiasts has grown in the second largest event of its kind in the world. Every April, tens of thousands of aviation enthusiasts travel from around the globe to to enjoy one of the world’s greatest aviation conventions. Held at the SUN ‘n FUN Complex at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, FL, this six-day event celebrates aviation with more than 4000 airplanes, over 500 commercial exhibitors showcasing the latest products in the industry, and in excess of 450 educational forums, seminars, and hands-on workshops for virtually every aviation interest.
SUN ’n FUN’s mission is to preserve and enhance the future of flight through world-class events, inspiring and educating people of all ages.
When I spoke to Ben about his new role he referred to what he called “Ben’s” plan:
I am developing an actual comprehensive safety program for all aviators AND helping them develop year round activities that engage the aerospace and aviation industry. One long weekend will be dedicated to aircraft maintenance, another weekend to ballooning, etc. My role will be much more than just “safety” for the Fly-In, but will include prevention techniques in our comprehensive safety program.
All things considered, Pres. Leenhouts, you’ve got the right man for the job. Congrats! We look forward to a safe and exciting SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In & Expo.
Posted by 1:37 pm
