Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can happen in an instant, but its effects can last a lifetime. By raising awareness, sharing survivor stories and supporting neurosurgical research, we can help improve understanding, treatment and recovery for people affected by traumatic brain injury.
A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force, such as a fall, collision or blow to the head, causes injury to the brain. The effects can range from mild to severe, and symptoms and recovery experiences differ from person to person.
Traumatic brain injuries can affect people of all ages and may have lasting impacts on physical health, thinking, emotional wellbeing and everyday independence.
Raising awareness of traumatic brain injury is essential to improving prevention, supporting survivors and encouraging continued investment in research.
Traumatic brain injuries can have complex and long-lasting effects. Research helps improve our understanding of how the brain responds to injury and supports the development of better approaches to diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and recovery.
Your support can help advance research that aims to improve outcomes for people affected by TBI and their families.
Your contribution can help fund vital traumatic brain injury research and support a future where people affected by TBI have access to better treatments, recovery pathways and support.
Together, we can help advance neurosurgical research and improve outcomes for Australians living with traumatic brain injury.
Our TBI awareness merchandise provides a simple way to show your support for people affected by traumatic brain injury, while helping raise awareness of the importance of neurosurgical research.
Choose from our Green Awareness Earrings or Green TBI Awareness Badges, with proceeds supporting the NeuroSurgical Research Foundation's work in traumatic brain injury research.
Green Ribbon Earrings
$22 including postage
PURCHASE GREEN RIBBON EARRINGS
Green TBI Awareness Badge
$10 including postage
Blue Brain Research Socks
$22 including postage
PURCHASE BLUE BRAIN SOCKS HERE
Every brain injury is different. The experiences of survivors and their families help us understand the life-changing impact of TBI, while highlighting the importance of rehabilitation, support and continued research.
In 2018, Lauren's life changed in an instant when she suffered a traumatic brain injury after an accidental fall at work. What was initially diagnosed as a mild concussion led to a long and challenging recovery, including ongoing fatigue, vision difficulties, pain and the need for extensive rehabilitation.
As Lauren navigated the realities of living with an invisible brain injury, she discovered the importance of connection, understanding and support. Through The Orange Butterfly, she began sharing her experiences to help others feel less alone and give a voice to those who struggle to explain what they're going through.
Today, Lauren advocates for brain injury awareness, supports others through peer mentoring and continues to build a community focused on connection and recovery.
Read Lauren's story to learn more about her experience with traumatic brain injury, her recovery journey and how she is helping others in the brain injury community.
Tyler Fuller was just 19 when he suffered a severe traumatic brain injury after a fall at Middleton on New Year's Day 2020. He spent 19 days in a coma and underwent life-saving brain surgery, followed by months of intensive rehabilitation.
Tyler's recovery included multiple surgeries, physiotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation and psychological support.
Today, Tyler uses his experience to raise awareness about the life-changing impacts of TBI and support others on their recovery journey. He encourages survivors to stay positive and committed to rehabilitation, highlighting the importance of continuing to pursue goals and dreams following a brain injury.
Tyler's advice to others recovering from TBI:
"Don't give up with your rehab, recovery, goals, and dreams. Being positive about the injury and recovery is an essential mindset to have while going through this experience. Don't think poorly of yourself or what the injury might restrict you to do. I look at it as a blessing in disguise, and I hope others who might go through this experience will think the same."
At just 12 years old, Tyler Rutka-Hudson's life changed in an instant after a serious road incident while riding his bike in Whyalla. Tyler sustained severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury that led to a stroke, and required urgent neurosurgery followed by intensive hospital care.
When Tyler woke from his coma, he faced immense challenges. He was unable to walk or talk and had to relearn everyday skills many of us take for granted. Through months of rehabilitation, perseverance and determination, Tyler gradually rebuilt his strength and independence.
Now, Tyler shares his story to raise awareness about brain injury and recovery, while reminding young people of the importance of wearing a helmet.
His experience is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impacts of traumatic brain injury and the importance of continued investment in neurosurgical research, treatment and rehabilitation.
Hear Tyler share his experience of traumatic brain injury, recovery and life after his injury in his own words.
Content warning: This video includes discussion of a serious car accident, injury and medical trauma. Some details may be distressing or triggering for viewers.
Traumatic brain injury can change lives in an instant. With your support, we can help advance research, raise awareness and work towards better outcomes for people living with brain injury.
Wear the green. Share the message. Support research.
