Survivor David Lambert’s comments come as Headway- the brain injury association reaches a major milestone in issuing over 15,000 Brain Injury Identity Cards across the UK.
The Brain Injury ID Card, which was launched in 2017 by then patron Prince Harry, is designed to help brain injury survivors explain the effects of their condition and request any support they may need.
Each card is personalised and displays the key ways in which the survivor’s brain injury affects them, from communication and processing difficulties to balance issues, anxiety and poor memory.
Carrying the ID card can provide survivors with an added confidence in everyday scenarios, and with the reassurance that if they need help, their needs can be easily identified, whether in social situations, or if they encounter police or other emergency services.
The cards also play a vital role in the Headway Justice Project, by including a 24-hour criminal legal assistance number which can be called to request legal advice or representation from solicitors trained in understanding brain injury.
Former Merchant Navy Chief Officer David Lambert, from Lancaster, has been an ID card holder for several years following a motorbike accident while at a track day at Oulton Park in 2017.
The 44-year-old was in a coma for 11 days and spent several weeks in hospital due to breaking his spine in five places and sustaining a frontal lobe traumatic brain injury.
Frontal lobe injury can result in a variety of symptoms, including changes in behaviour- such as impulsivity or irritability- as well as having difficulty with social interactions and emotion regulation- all of which affect David.
David said: “I don’t react to emotions properly and people don’t expect it because I don’t look like I have a brain injury. I look healthy and can speak with people and do certain tasks.
“Things that should be funny will make me cry, or things that should make me angry maybe make me laugh.
“Everyone is full of sympathy and understanding right up until they’re on the receiving end of certain behaviour, like irritability.
“It’s so hard to explain to people and can be humiliating.
“The Headway ID card has made a massive difference in my life. It helped me get out the house again.
“It was terrifying because I thought what if I have an aggressive or emotional moment in public?
“Having the card meant I had something there which I can show to people, use it to explain my symptoms, and ask people to give me 10 minutes and some space for the emotions to pass. “It really has made a massive difference.”
Chris Marriott, Justice Programme Manager at Headway, said reaching 15,000 Brain Injury Identity Cards is a “fantastic milestone” which reflects the “growing awareness and support for brain injury survivors across the UK.”
He added: “While there’s still much more to do, this achievement is a step in the right direction, ensuring more people receive the recognition and understanding they deserve.
“The Justice Programme will continue working to expand awareness and ensure even more people benefit from this invaluable initiative."
Sheena Field, Project Lead with the Justice Programme, said: ‘It's very rewarding to process ID card applications as I know, from the feedback we receive, how invaluable they are to so many.
“ID card holders, families and friends find them a great comfort and support when shopping, travelling, attending appointments or if they come into contact with the police. It really is a privilege to be part of this.”
The Brain Injury Identity Card is one of the ways in which Headway can support you after a brain injury and is free of charge.
You can find more information on how to apply for a Brain Injury Identity Card here
