Julie's story - I survived a brain injury

A fruitful career in expatriate financial planning, came to an abrupt end one night in October 1988 whilst crossing the road. I was hit by a speeding car.

I suffered a severe closed basal skull fracture and was in a coma for three and a half weeks. I also had major orthopaedic injuries.

My recovery was slow and I am constantly reminded of the fact that every brain injury and its effect varies vastly. Concentration can be difficult and I have to be wary of attending places with loud music and flashing lights.

In part, my recovery has been helped by my commitment to Headway North London which assists brain injury survivors, families, carers and professionals. I help them to understand the maze of seeking the right understanding of the effects of brain injury in order to obtain the right assistance at the most appropriate time. For many, as with myself, this is a long journey of rehabilitation and reparation.

I have regularly campaigned on TV, the press and at overseas conferences on the importance of the effects of brain injury, to campaign for better understanding of the effects, and to in some way assist, in their prevention wherever possible.

In December 2005, the 25th anniversary of Headway in the UK, I was given a Lifetime Achievement Award for my contribution to brain injury survivors and the work of Headway.

Julie Bridgewater, Vice Chair to Headway North London

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