Brain injury rehab Brain injury support empowers Jason to never stop fighting!
Jason is a person we support at Woodlands, one of our specialist brain injury support services located in Middlesbrough. He’s an active individual who’s been passionate about karate since he was three years old!
But Jason’s active lifestyle suddenly stopped when he suffered a brain injury after being involved in a car accident just five days after his 18th birthday.
The accident left him hospitalised for several months; he was unable to breathe independently and had severe front lobe damage as well as other life changing injuries.
But despite his injuries, Jason’s always been determined to continue fighting strong! His lifelong passion for karate led him to achieving two senior dan black belts prior to his accident. Reigniting that passion, he’s now on track to achieve his fourth senior dan black belt by the end of 2023!
Jason’s brain injury support journey
“I spent nearly a year in hospital, facing life-threatening conditions such as bleeding on the brain and food travelling from my stomach up into my lungs. I also broke my right leg in the car accident.”
When asked about the extent of his injuries, Jason said, “The doctors and nurses told my parents that my survival was due to my high fitness levels. However, they were also told I would never walk again, I wouldn’t be able to breathe normally without a tube, and that my short-term memory would be affected. If I survived, I would only live for a maximum of four more years.”
Jason has truly defied the odds, and now lives more independently in one of our dedicated step-down bungalows at the rear of the property.
Road to recovery
After his accident, Jason was quickly taken to hospital where he stayed in a coma for several weeks before slowly showing signs of improvement. Despite being told he may not be able to walk again, he began to use his legs more often and rely less on the use of a wheelchair. Jason was determined to get better and was dedicated to regaining his independence.
Jason soon moved back to his family home with his parents, who devoted their lives to supporting his everyday needs. They did the best they could to ensure their beloved son had everything he needed to make him happy and comfortable. He would spend a lot of time going on holidays, popping out for a drink, playing in the garden, or walking the dogs.
Sadly, Jason lost both his parents in the following years. He found himself living alone and struggled to cope with caring for himself. It was then decided he would be best supported in a care setting.
Welcoming Jason to Woodlands
When Jason first arrived at Woodlands it was all new to him and he didn’t like the idea of change. This impacted his behaviour. He became difficult to reason with, his behaviour was unpredictable, and he was verbally challenging. Jason’s support team did everything they could give him reassurance and make him feel safe in his new home.
With our expert support, Jason’s behaviour improved. He’s now making his own choices and safely participating in community activities. In particular, he enjoys going to the gym, and shopping in town. All of which are supporting him to develop his independence!
Jason’s also a big film fan! He likes going to the cinema, and watching movies like Spiderman, James Bond, Marvel and DC films. And his talents don’t stop there! He’s developed a flair for art. Jason’s produced some incredible pieces of art that are displayed around the home, and have even been made into cards, coasters and calendars!
Passion for Karate
Following Jason’s accident, his parents felt it was best to get rid of anything that related to karate. This was done to save Jason the hurt of not being able to do it anymore.
After he settled in at Woodlands, our support team realised it was something Jason was still interested in, and suggested he got back into his karate.
Although he was reluctant at first, Jason soon decided he would give it another go. With the support of his team, Jason was empowered to begin engaging in the sport he once loved.
Jason picked up where he left off and, to his surprise, it was his old karate teacher still running the classes. Jason was in his element. With his gear bought, and new belts ordered, he soon looked the part and was ready for action!
Jason worked incredibly hard and gained his third senior dan black belt. He then went on to complete his qualification to become a Karate Tutor. Jason now runs classes alongside his previous teacher, in doing so he is continuing to develop his confidence, knowledge, behaviour and maturity as a respected adult.
Jason commented, “I was delighted to return to karate after joining Woodlands”.
Learn more about specialist brain injury support!
Visit our dedicated webpage to find out more about how we support people with brain injuries to live fulfilling lives. Ready to make an enquiry? Fill in our quick form and our friendly team will be in touch!
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