New Day NW/King5

How disappointing, on Wellness Wed. of New Day NW, their 'expert' on aging and brain health failed to mention Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).  Since treatment is too often delayed because of misdiagnosis, commonly mistakenly diagnosed as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.  Hydrocephalus, while not curable, IS manageable and treatable.  It isn't an automatic death sentence.

I've been hoping that a show, like New Day NW, would embrace hydrocephalus and showcase some of our members who have overcome great odds to live very full lives with their condition.  Unfortunately, hydrocephalus remains one of those conditions (not a disease) that is kept shrouded in mystery and secrecy.  We are constantly having to blow myths and stereotypes out of the water.  One of them being that we automatically have less productive lives.

December Meeting

Happy birthday, Kim!!

This month's meeting was very productive.  We talked about possibilities for the 2016 Brain Awareness Open House.  The event will be March 17th, from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm in the UW's HUB Ballroom.  We will be, as always, seeing kids from grade school through high school, as well as parents and teachers.  Hard to believe we've been doing this for 20 years!

We are also looking for more ways to increase visibility in the community.  All too often, hydrocephalus isn't talked about.  This led to the discussion(s) about many ways that hydrocephalus is acquired.  This includes any type of head trauma.  Yes, this is where our discussion usually leads, but it is still very relevant.  It also includes the education of first responders.

We also talked about Chris Harris' death and the horrific incident that brought about his disability--including his TBI.  Again, it brings things back around to training of first responders and the myth about 'retraining' people who have an inclination towards violence and excessive force in dealing with 'suspects'.  Shandy Cobain was also 'retrained' after kicking a 'suspect' about the head (and genitals) while yelling racist comments--then expecting the guy to 'walk it off'.  In both instances, it was mistaken identity.  In one case, it cost a man his life and livelihood, while the other was simply 'lucky' to come away without life altering, physical damage.  Chris Harris' offender is still part of the Sheriff's department and has, according to news reports, had other excessive force issues.  Big surprise!

I would like to see us get a group together to go to New Day NW, a local talk show.  I would also like to see them address hydrocephalus in on their health focus Wed. show.  It would also be great to have a corporate sponsor for some marketing projects.  Every year we talk about wanting to have our own reusable bags, tee-shirts and giveaway items at Brain Awareness.

I'll be posting the 2016 meeting schedule shortly.