Substitute for House Resolution No. 255.                                                                      

A resolution to declare March 20-26, 2016, as Brain Injury Awareness Week in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a blow, jolt, or bump to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain; and                                                                                   

Whereas, At least 2.5 million children and adults sustain a traumatic brain injury each year, and at least 5.3 million people nationwide live with long term disabilities due to TBI; and

Whereas, Early, equal, and adequate access to care greatly increases the overall quality of life for individuals with TBI, enabling them to return to home, school, work, and community; and

            Whereas, Post 9-11 veterans with a traumatic brain injury are at an increased risk of

developing post-traumatic stress disorder; and                                                                                

Whereas, An estimated 39% of returning veterans with traumatic brain injury also have post- traumatic stress disorder; and 

            Whereas, The Brain Injury Association of America promotes March as Brain Injury

Awareness Month with the motto “Not Alone” to encourage awareness of the extent, causes,

consequences, treatment, and prevention of TBI; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That members of this legislative body declare

March 20-26, 2016, as Brain Injury Awareness Week in the state of Michigan.