March-National Brain Injury Awareness MonthPROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, a traumatic brain injury (TBl) is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to, or penetration of,
the head that disrupts the normalfunction of the brain; and
WHEREAS, traumatic brain injury has been the signature injury of wars in lraq and Afghanistan,
treatment is often complicated by high rates of PTSD and suicide, presenting new challenges for members
of the military and their families in the state; and
WHEREAS, 30 percent of sports-related injuries happen among youth five and L9 years of age,
and, because the signs of brain injury are not always well recognized, youth may put themselves at risk
for another injury and potentially fatal second-impact syndrome; and
WHEREAS, as many as 50 percent of mild traumatic brain injuries go unreported or undetected;
and
WHEREAS, an injury that happens in an instant can bring a lifetime of physical, cognitive, and
behavioral challenges; and
WHEREAS, it is estimated that at least 2,8 Million people sustain a Traumatic Brain lnjury (TBl)
each year; and
WHEREAS, prevention is the only known cure; and
WHEREAS, the mission of the Brain lnjury Association of America (BIAA) is to create early and
adequate intervention, especially cognitive rehabilitation, will greatly increase the quality of life and
enable individuals with brain injury to return to home, school, work, or their communities; and
WHEREAS, March has been designated as National Brain lnjury Awareness Month to promote
awareness of the extent, consequences, causes, treatments, and prevention of acquired brain injuries;
and
WHEREAS, on March 31st were ever you are at B:00pm Pacific Time please join us in the "Light
up the Heavens" for brain awareness to honor the fallen and to give hope to our survivors; and
NOW, THEREFORE, l, Robert Putaansuu, Mayor of the City of Port Orchard, designate March 2020
NATIONAL BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH
in the City of Port Orchard and I call upon all employees and citizens of the City of Port Orchard to observe
this month with appropriate recognition whereof.
Signed this 2nd day of March 2021,
Robe rt Putaansuu, Mayor