Child Again

Rory’s family was already told that everyday activities such as dressing up would be difficult and that he would suffer from short-term memory. So, his mother used to help him with that. He had no clue about his identification. In an interview, he said, “I remember Mum helping me to the toilet and I couldn’t believe who I was looking at when I saw myself in a mirror. I had a scar on my right temple and that side of my hair had been shaved off”.

Confirmation

Luke Griggs who is a spokesperson for brain injury association Headway stated, “waking from a coma is not how it’s often portrayed in the movies. It can be a very gradual process, with the patient suffering bouts of confusion and disorientation as the brain tries to recover some functionality.”

After Effects

 He further added, “after a coma, during a period known as post-traumatic amnesia (PTA), the patient’s behavior may well be restless, disinhibited and agitated for example, with uncharacteristic behavior not uncommon”.

A Harsh Reality

Luke Griggs explains “while different parts of our brain are responsible for different things, all parts of the brain are interconnected. Damage to one part of the brain can lead to increased activity in other parts of the brain, which can sometimes result in surprising and unexpected effects. The reality for most, however, is that the recovery journey from a brain injury can arduous and last a lifetime with patients often faced with having to relearn the most basic of life skills.”

 A New Phase

Rory had to give up on his dream of being a professional football player because of the injury. Now, he is working as a barber in his hometown. People love to listen to his story and notice his ability to speak French fluently. He is content doing his work, moreover, he has mastered this art and is happy.

Life Changed

Rory’s life changed entirely after the incident. He learned the value of life. In this regard, he says, “the accident changed my outlook on life. I can’t leave the house now without telling everyone I love them and giving them a hug”.