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Animation: Memory loss after brain injury

"I just need a bit more understanding"

Illustration of a person in profile wearing round glasses, with the top of the head opened to reveal glowing light bulbs and abstract bulb outlines floating above. The light bulbs vary in shape and size, symbolizing ideas, creativity, innovation, learning, or problem-solving. The artwork uses a minimalist style with pink, blue, and yellow tones on a light background.

Memory loss after brain injury

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i'm tony at 27 i sustained a brain injury when i was in a car crash

after a week in a coma i pulled through but when i woke up i didn't recognize my wife or remember her name and i had no idea what happened in the accident years of memories were wiped in an instant now i struggle with my short and long-term memory i can't remember events from any of the photos on the wall however much i focus it's frightening and confusing because i look fine on the outside people don't realize how much i struggle i have to ask my wife to support me with the simplest of tasks it's frustrating and embarrassing i try not to get angry after all my family's been really supportive they take photos now to remind me what i've done in a day and we look back on these which helps mobile reminders and post-it notes help too i have a routine which gives me continuity it's helped having the support of a charity like headway

not only has their helpline provided a listening ear but my local group has helped my wife and i to realize that we're not alone i just wish that more people could understand the challenges that i face everyone thinks they understand memory loss but the reality is they don't understand the half of it my brain injury and memory loss has been life-changing for me and those around me it helps when people are patient and can support my new routines and coping strategies that's all i'm after really just a bit more understanding

you

Our Memory loss after brain injury animation was produced in response to the findings of a survey conducted by Headway – the brain injury association which found that 72% of brain injury survivors feel that the people in their life don't understand their memory problems.

Launched at the start of the charity’s Action for Brain Injury (ABI) Week 2020 campaign, which focuses on memory loss after brain injury, the animation aims to raise awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by those affected.

It tells the story of Tony, a father who sustained a brain injury in a car accident. After waking from a coma, he didn’t recognise his family and closest friends.

The animation, which was created by The Like Minded, goes on to explore themes of relationship breakdown and the frustration of not remembering everyday events, while taking the viewer along a journey as Tony and his family try to get to grips with a new way of life.

Importantly, the animation gives brain injury survivors and their loved ones guidance on seeking support - whether that be through ringing Headway’s nurse-led, freephone helpline or accessing information on coping strategies within its factsheets and booklets.

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