Each year, approximately 1.7 million Americans suffer a brain injury or concussion. March is Brain Injury Awareness Month and the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) is partnering with the Arizona Governor’s Council on Spinal and Head Injuries and the Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona to raise awareness by hosting a free, public art show featuring the work of artists who have suffered brain injuries.
The event will be held in Phoenix Wednesday, March 15 from 11:00 am – 1:30 pm, in the DES atrium located at 1789 West Jefferson Street. Artists will be on-site to discuss their experiences as survivors of brain injuries.
“DES is pleased to work with the Governor’s Council on Spinal and Head Injuries and the Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona to raise awareness of this issue and recognize these remarkable individuals for their talents,” said DES Interim Director Henry Darwin. “We’re honored to host the artists who have not only overcome their injuries, but have thrived in spite of them. They are truly an inspiration to us all.”
Arizona residents are encouraged to wear purple on March 15 to show support for Brain Injury Awareness Month. “We want to get the word out and have people meet individuals with brain injuries,” said Ann Tarpy, Executive Director for the Governor’s Council on Spinal and Head Injuries and DES employee.
“There are more people with brain injuries than with breast cancer,” says Tarpy. “You always hear about people with breast cancer, but you do not hear a lot about brain injuries. It’s a silent epidemic that can be very isolating for people with brain injury.”
The DES Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) helps clients who have suffered brain injuries complete their education goals, find and maintain employment and live independently. RSA and its partners work year-round to educate the public about brain injuries and offer strategies to avoid them.
