'MY LACROSSE CONCUSSION' STORIES

The reality is that the effects are much worse than people often realize and they can last for years or forever. One concussion can harm the recipients life forever.

Unfortunately, concussions will never be completely eliminated from competitive sports. Measures that have recently been taken to better diagnose and manage concussions after they have occurred are essential. Ongoing tracking of the frequency and severity of concussions as well as appropriate rule modifications and officiating practices are also important. However, there seems to be a point of view- most common among former players– that because concussions are more prevalent in other sports than girls lacrosse, these steps are adequate. And therefore, irrespective of the scientific evidence that over a third of concussions can be prevented by mandating headgear, this is an unnecessary step.
Another argument advanced has been, “concussions aren’t really a problem in certain regions where play or officiating is of a higher level.”

The reality is that severe concussions are occurring in every region. One of the most insidious aspects of a brain injury is what happens to the injured player. Because of the treatment, she must disappear from her prior life; often sitting in a dark room with no access to screens or any external stimulation. After the requisite teammate good wishes, the player becomes invisible. The parents spend 100% of their energy trying, rather futily, to find a care provider and treatment that has some hope of helping. For these reasons, the magnitude of the impact to the players life is not known or felt by those still playing.

The reality is that the effects are much worse than people often realize and they can last for years or forever. It is our wish to convey to others what we have learned because if we could turn back the clock with our current knowledge, putting headgear on our girls would not require a second thought.

For this reason, we want to share the stories of girls who experience this.