Drew's recovery.

*Information on concussion taken from Mayo Clinic.* 

 

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that alters the way your brain functions. Effects are usually temporary, but can include problems with headache, concentration, memory, judgment, balance and coordination.  Concussions are common, particularly if you play a contact sport, such as football. But every concussion injures your brain to some extent. This injury needs time and rest to heal properly.

 

  Signs and symptoms of a concussion may include:

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness
• Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• Amnesia surrounding the traumatic event
• Dizziness or "seeing stars"
• Ringing in the ears
• Nausea or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Fatigue 

No one should return to play or vigorous activity while signs or symptoms of a concussion are present. Experts recommend that an athlete with a suspected concussion not return to play until he or she has been medically evaluated. Experts also recommend that child and adolescent athletes with a concussion not return to play on the same day as the injury.

 

  

The following tips may help you to prevent or minimize your risk of head injury:  

Wear appropriate protective gear during sports and other recreational activities. 

Always use the appropriate protective gear for any sport you or your child undertakes. When bicycling, motorcycling, snowboarding or engaging in any recreational activity that may result in head injury, wear protective headgear. 

Use caution in and around swimming areas. 

Make your home safe.

(His team won first place in the Randy Taylor Tournaments.  The games were held in honor of the referee that was killed in a car accident in May.  He refereed Drew's game on the day of his accident and Drew is still happy to announce that he gave Drew his first yellow card.  The family was there to pass out trophies and Drew was awarded Most Valuable Player.  Big thanks to Coach Jamie and the Predators for easing the sting of not being able to play in the final game.  We had to laugh when we saw his trophy because it looked exactly like the way that Drew was injured.)