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March is Brain Injury Month. This is a good time to discuss one of the most significant injuries veterans suffer during service.
Traumatic brain injury, commonly referred to as TBI, is a significant health issue for military service members and veterans. It's a disruption in the normal function of the brain caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury.
Our military personal is at considerably high risk of TBI from explosions during combat or training exercises, bullet penetration, blunt force trauma to the head, shock waves from explosive weapons, motor vehicle collisions and rollovers, and blast injuries. These incidents can lead to a range of TBIs, from mild concussions to severe brain damage, and are a significant concern due to their potential long-term effects.
Veterans who suffer from TBIs can have chronic headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, tinnitus, sensitivity to light or sound, communication problems, emotional and behavioral problems, difficulty in social situations, relationships and self-control, they can be easily agitated and become aggressive.
TBIs are an invisible condition, unlike a broken leg, that is generally misunderstood by the general population because they can't "see" the disability. A person suffering from a TBI can't "just get over it." Even the mildest of TBIs can involve serious long-term effects.
However, with treatment, medications, rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments many veterans can live a productive, comfortable and happy life. One of the most important parts of TBIs is getting treatment. If you or someone you know is showing signs of a TBI, get medical attention immediately.
For more information on TBIs, go to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website at va.gov. It is a valuable source for understanding the challenges and effects of TBIs in the military and veteran population.
UPCOMING EVENTS
-- Every Friday is fish fry at the American Legion 50 on River Street. They serve shrimp, cod and now smelt from 4 to 7 p.m. Customers can eat in or take out. Call 906-774-5797 after 3:30 p.m. to order.
-- The last Sunday of each month, the American Legion, Norway Post, serves up a fantastic breakfast. They will not be serving on Easter Sunday in March.
-- March 28, VA Town Hall, 5 p.m. at the Dickinson County Veteran Services Office, 2301 Woodward Ave., Kingsford.
-- Mark your calenders for July 27, the largest veteran social event in Dickinson County. The Dickinson County Veteran Service Office will host the Dickinson County Veterans Picnic and Concert. This event is to celebrate and thank all Dickinson County veterans and their families for the sacrifices they have made for us. It will be a day full of food, fun and music.
Starting at 11 a.m., we will have opening ceremonies. A picnic lunch will be served immediately after from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Door prizes will be drawn at 1:30 p.m.
Immediately after the picnic, we will have bands performing. The concerts will be open to the public. Anyone can attend and thank a veteran for their service. Security during the concert will be provided by the LongRiders M.C. This is the second year that they have volunteered their services. We have a great lineup of three bands that will play until 9:30 to 10 p.m.
Bring your lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. During the event, the American Legion will have a beverage tent and sell food throughout the concert. We look forward to seeing all of you there.