Our long-standing relationship with Synapse and the BIA
This week, from the 15th to the 21st of August, is Brain Injury Awareness Week and it is a particularly important week for Turner Freeman Lawyers, given our long-standing relationship with Synapse and the Brain Injury Association of NSW. Synapse is a national organisation which is dedicated to improving the quality of life of those living with and affected by acquired brain injuries. Turner Freeman is proud to be retained by Synapse in order to bring not only the required legal skill, but also the personal and human knowledge to assist those with brain injuries to maximize their quality of life and receive the compensation they deserve.
Whilst commonly acknowledged as some of the worst injuries people can suffer, what is not fully understood by the wider community are the wide-ranging impacts that brain injuries can have on both the injured person and their friends and families. Every case is different and comes with a variety of both short and long term changes, primarily these can be divided as:
- Medical difficulties;
- Changes in physical and sensory abilities;
- Changes in the ability to think and learn;
- Changes in behaviour and personality; and
- Communication difficulties
Acquired brain injuries can often easily be confused with an intellectual disability. However often people with an acquired brain injury do not necessarily experience a decline in their overall level of intelligence, but rather experience a range of cognitive impairments, commonly affecting things such as memory, concentration and communication.
Problems with memory and concentration can manifest in a number of different ways. Such symptoms can not only affect the injured person’s ability to recall information from prior to the injury or remember things that have recently occurred, but can also severely limit the ability to learn and recall new information. When these symptoms are coupled with the associated difficulties in concentration and communication, the effects of such an injury can be devastating for the injured person.
However, the difficulties of brain injuries are not limited to those who suffer the injury, but can also wreak havoc on carers and family members. Difficulties in adjusting to the changes in a loved one, coupled with a lack of understanding from those who do not see firsthand the impact of a brain injury on a daily basis can often lead family members to feeling guilty or angry. Unfortunately, these problems can often lead to depressive symptoms in carers and family members and this is an often overlooked side effect of an acquired brain injury.
It is important to remember that for all people affected by an acquired brain injury that there is help available. Vital organisations such as Synapse and the Brain Injury Association exist in order not only help those who suffer a brain injury to reconnect with the community and live a meaningful life, but also raise awareness and funding in order to spread the message about acquired brain injuries.
If a brain injury has been caused by the negligence of another person or group of people then the injured person and their support network are entitled to compensation for the injuries sustained, to assist with the management of the condition. Turner Freeman is proud to have assisted thousands of people with brain injuries achieve compensation and assist on their road to recovery.
If you or someone you know has suffered a brain injury which you believe may have been caused by the negligence of another person, we encourage you to call 13 43 63 to speak with one of our medical law experts today.
