June was Concussion Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the often-overlooked dangers of head injuries through the powerful and tragic story of Rowan Stringer, a 17-year-old high school rugby captain from Ontario.
In 2013, Rowan sustained three concussions over six days, unknowingly suffering from second impact syndrome, a potentially fatal condition that can occur when a second concussion occurs before the prior one has healed. Rowan played through her symptoms, choosing not to inform her parents or coaches. A message she sent to a friend shortly before her final game chillingly read: “Nothing can stop meeee! Unless I’m dead.” [1] Tragically, on May 8, she collapsed during a match and never regained consciousness.
Rowan’s death led to the introduction of Rowan’s Law (Concussion Safety) in Ontario, which came into effect on July 1, 2019. This policy enforces concussion protocols in sports, requiring all athletes under 26 years of age to undergo annual education and mandates the immediate removal from play of anyone suspected of having a concussion.
Concussions
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain moves around inside the skull. Concussions can be caused by a bump, jolt, blow to the head, or full body collision, among other things. Symptoms may appear immediately (like dizziness or ringing in the ears), or hours later (such as headache, nausea, or trouble concentrating). Concussions can be considered “invisible injuries” since there may be no cuts, bruises, or broken bones, making the injury unseen in the conventional sense to most. Despite the fact that you might not see the impacts, the effects of concussions can be long-lasting and serious.
Beyond Sports
Concussions aren’t just a sports issue. They’re also common in motor vehicle accidents, where a sudden stop or jolt can force the brain to move violently inside the skull, even without hitting your head. Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading non-sports causes of concussions in Canada.[2]
One Brain to Protect
Concussions may not always be seen, but their impact is real. Taking every head injury seriously, whether in sports, daily life, or accidents, is essential.
If you have suffered a personal injury, Daniel & Partners LLP has the experience and legal expertise to handle all types of personal injury claims, including those involving traumatic brain injuries. Do not hesitate to contact us for trusted guidance and dedicated support throughout your recovery and legal journey.
[1] Chris Cobb, “’Unless I’m dead’: Inquest hears teen’s haunting texts before fatal rugby injury”, Ottawa Citizen (online), 19 May 2015, archived at CityNews Ottawa https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/coroners-inquest-into-the-death-of-teenage-rugby-player-rowan-stringer-starts-today.
[2] Public Health Agency of Canada, Traumatic Brain Injuries: Data Blog (5 September 2024), online: Health Infobase, Public Health Agency of Canada https://health-infobase.canada.ca/brain-injuries/?utm_source.