To Russ & his Family,

 

I can relate to what you all are going thru since I was hurt in an auto accident in 1972.  I was 16 years old and on a date in Brooklyn,  N.Y..  I had injury to my head and face (eye and check).  I was unconscious for one day and semi-conscious for 2 days.  I have no recollection of the accident at all even today.  I did not have any motor problems, except I saw double vision with my eye that went away completely after 3 months on its own.

 

I have learned that the brain can heal.  A medical study showed that the brain can generate new nerve cells.  I had temporary cognitive problems from the accident.  My short term memory was not good.  When I tried to read a book, when I read the beginning of the paragraph I forgot what I had read when I got to the end of the paragraph.  I went to the library and re-read picture books (Dr. Seuss and others) and also my favorite children's novels. 

 

It is truly amazing what people can do to overcome their obstacle.  My neurologist told me in 1973 that I only had a 1% chance of a complete recovery.  I told him that 1% was all I needed.  This accident happened in my senior year in High School.  I went back to school and completed HS in 1972, then college in 1978.  In 1985 I completed an MBA.  I've worked as a Computer Programmer or Systems Analyst since 1980.  

 

Never give-up hope that Russ will recover.  Time and therapy and encouragement is what is needed.  From my experience I learned that no one is perfect but just does the best they can.  My short term memory problem went away completely.  I didn't let the accident stop me from achieving goals.

 

I've never met Russ, but understand what he is going thru.  I learned about his story from the Star Ledger.  I hope my story helps.  If you have time, please send me information about Robert's consulting group in Woodbridge, since I am currently looking for another job. 

 

Thanks,

Irene Hart 

e-mail: hart_smart@msn.com