HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.R. NO.	117
TWENTY-SEVENTH LEGISLATURE, 2013		H.D. 1
STATE OF HAWAII

HOUSE RESOLUTION

DESIGNATING MARCH AS BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH.

     WHEREAS, brain injury is a serious, national public health epidemic affecting 5.3 million Americans, with a person sustaining a brain injury every 21 seconds; and

     WHEREAS, each year, at least 50,000 Americans die and 80,000 Americans experience the onset of life-long disabilities as a result of sustaining a brain injury; and

     WHEREAS, brain injury can affect every aspect of an individual's life, including physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral aspects; and

     WHEREAS, the majority of people who suffer from mild or moderate brain injuries recover fully, but the effects, while they last, can be confusing, frightening, and disruptive; and

     WHEREAS, the Brain Injury Association of Hawaii is dedicated to improving the quality of life of persons with brain injury; increasing public awareness by providing educational information, resources, and support for individuals who have sustained a brain injury; and promoting prevention of brain injuries in our community; and

     WHEREAS, during the month of March, organizations and individuals across the nation will take part in a month-long public education initiative in observance of Brain Injury Awareness Month; now, therefore,

     BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Twenty-seventh Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2013, that March be designated as Brain Injury Awareness Month to increase public awareness and education regarding the seriousness of brain injuries, support for individuals who have sustained brain injuries, and ways to prevent brain injury; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor, Director of Health, and the Brain Injury Association of Hawaii.

Report Title: 

Traumatic Brain Injury; Brain Injury Awareness Month