The 'Knockout Game'

 

 

 

THE 'KNOCKOUT GAME'

 

 

How disturbing is this?!  Obviously, those participating in this 'game' haven't got a clue about the potential damage they can do with this.  Today's national news addressed a few of the deaths that were caused by these careless 'kids' who seem to think that it is 'fun' to knock someone out on the street.

 

As usual, I look at it from the hydrocephalus perspective.  This is one of the many ways that someone can acquire hydrocephalus--through a traumatic brain injury (TBI).  Hitting one's head against a sidewalk, curb or wall can/does cause such injuries.  I'm sure that this will be a subject of conversation at the December meeting of the Hydrocephalus Support Group, Inc.

 

I have no idea how this started or how to stop it.  I guess that until something happens to those who think this is a game, entertainment or funny it will continue.  As I've said before, someone who isn't hyper-aware of their brain isn't going to appreciate that precious cargo the same way as those of us who are living their lives very aware of their brain.  While I'm concerned about this in general, specifically, some stranger who isn't aware that someone already has a condition, like hydrocephalus or a TBI already, could SO easily prey on them, causing irreparable damage, or even death.  From everything I've seen/heard about this 'game', it is inflicted on complete strangers, so it is quite possible that someone with a pre-existing brain issue could be killed by these kids 'having fun'.

 

The November meeting was very productive.  We discussed ways of increasing our presence online and in Western Washington.  I'm looking at ways that we can get involved in more community events, as well as increasing the awareness of the condition with the general public, as well as first responders.

 

Also wanted to say Thank You to NINDS for sending us the newest hydrocephalus pamphlets to include in our media kits.  Looking forward to the Hydrocephalus Association's (HA) contribution of literature to include in the kits.

 

I'm also hoping that Seattle's new Mayor and his staff will include hydrocephalus awareness throughout the year, but especially during September (Hydrocephalus Awareness Month).

 

The Allen Institute, here in Seattle, is going to be expanding its brain research to covering CTE, which is great.  Founded by Microsoft's Paul Allen, the Institute has already done the brain mapping, which is available online.

 

I'll be posting the 2014 Schedule in the coming weeks.