Health Watch: Overcoming Brain Injuries
NEW JERSEY (CBS) -- Arizona Representative Gabrielle Giffords is among 1.7 million people living with a brain injury. In honor of Brain Injury Awareness Month, a New Jersey facility is hosting a special event.
3 On Your Side Health Reporter Stephanie Stahl introduces us to one of the stars of the show.
The simple chore of cleaning the kitchen is a milestone for 29-year-old Adrienne Beattie. Her car got totaled after a drunk driver slammed into her eight years ago, leaving her with a horrible brain injury.
"That dreaded middle of the night call that every parent just never wants to happen is very devastating," said Donna Gallagher, Adrienne's mother.
There was no telling if Adrienne would live or die or be left in a vegetative state.
"You wonder is she going to be spared or not? And if she is spared, how bad is it going to be," said Donna.
She finally emerged from a month long coma. Then came the next ordeal, learning how to talk and walk and think. Eight years of rehab, Adrienne has come a long way.
"I'm still Adrienne Beattie. Even though I have a brain injury you have to see past that because I'm still a good person," said Adrienne. She is articulate and charming, but isn't good with decision making. So she lives in a group home run by Bancroft, which provides services to 1,300 people with neurological disabilities.
"No matter what, there is always hope for recovery. Individuals can really make great recoveries. They may not be exactly the same person they were before the injury, but the can live a fulfilling and a meaningful life," said Dr. Cynthia Boyer, a Clinical Psychologist with Bancroft. She says part of the therapy will be a new event called "Unplugged: One world, many stories."
Patients like Adrienne will tell their stories to a public audience. She's been practicing with a therapist.
"I'm a ham. I can't wait to be the star of the show. I would not be where I am today without people constantly telling me and reminding me you can do this, even if you don't think you can, you can do this," said Adrienne.
She's made tremendous progress, but realizes her limitations. She's had to give up on her high school hopes of being a dancer and a mom.
"One of the hardest things that has been for me is knowing that I'm different, ya know. And knowing that whatever dreams and goals Adrienne Beattie had before the accident are gone," said Adrienne.
Adrienne and her family are hoping she's eventually well enough to go home.
Bancroft's Unplugged event, where Adrienne and others will speak, is Monday, March 28th at the Cherry Hill Public Library from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. It's free and open to the public, and is all about raising awareness about brain injuries.
RELATED LINKS:
Bancroft Unplugged Event Information
Bancroft Brain Injury Services
Reported by Stephanie Stahl, CBS 3
