Fifteen years ago, Toronto neurosurgeon Charles Tator came to the frustrating realization that no amount of surgery, medicine, or treatment could cure his young patients of their brain and spinal chord injuries.
So Dr. Tator helped found ThinkFirst Foundation of Canada, a national charity that educates school-age children about brain and spinal chord injury prevention.
"We do not have a drug that will promote recovery of the brain," Dr. Tator says. "That's sad, but it's the truth. Prevention is the only cure."
Last year, more Canadian children died from traumatic brain injuries than all pediatric cancers combined. While sudden infections, tumours and strokes cause some of those pediatric injuries, the majority are caused by trauma.
Here are some strategies to keep your kids safe this summer, the peak period for acquired brain injuries in Canada:
* Never push or over-crowd when using playground equipment.
* Always make sure that playground equipment is well maintained and age appropriate.
* When entering unknown water for the first time, always go in feet first.
* Always walk; never run on a pool deck.
* Wear a properly fitting safety helmet when cycling, skateboarding, in-line skating or riding a scooter.
* Make sure your bike fits you properly — you should be able straddle the bike with both feet on the ground.
Source: www.thinkfirst.ca
