Through Twitter, I discovered that a lady called Andrea (a student at Cambridge University) needed volunteers for her study on brain injuries. I reached out to her to say I would be willing to participate and become a part of her work. Anything I can personally do to help the research into brain injuries is something I definitely need to be part of.
Overall, in a nutshell, this study hopes to improve knowledge on how people with brain injuries participate in leisure activities. This research is of particular interest to me personally because it focuses on discovering and showing how people with all types of brain injuries can still lead happy and fulfilling lives.
To begin with Andrea had a video call with me, in which I answered a set of initial mood-based questions for the study. Andrea explained that I will then be needed for around a couple of hours a week for eight weeks, to take part in further stages. I have also signed disclaimers and been told I can withdraw from this study at any point, so it has been made clear that it is entirely up to me if I wish to take part.
A small amount of participation from me could lead to increased knowledge and awareness around a subject that is still incredibly mysterious and delicate. Ultimately, brain injuries of any kind shouldn’t render you any less of a person, and they shouldn’t make your life any less ‘worthwhile’.
I’m excited to participate and will keep you updated on the progress of the study – watch this space.
