A Survivor of Traumatic Brain Injury
LIFEPlan member in the North Country Region Rick Clark likes to tell everyone that he is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor. He has an incredible story of faith, hope, and love. It is also a reminder to all that our lives can change in the blink of an eye.
On a beautiful day on October 15, 1970, 15-year old Rick was struck by an impaired driver while riding his motorcycle. Although Rick was wearing a helmet, he was severely injured in the crash. Pronounced dead at the scene, two inhalation therapists just happened to take an alternative route on their way home after work and came upon the horrific accident.
They kept Rick alive.
Rick’s Road to Survival
While in a coma for six months, his mother, Alice, never left his side. Since institutionalization seemed to be the only option for Rick in 1970, his mother took him home to recover. They would work together to make Rick better. He is now an inspiration to others with traumatic brain injury.
In October, we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month and the contributions of the people we support. Rick’s Care Manager, Tammy Miller thinks his success is an inspiration. “Rick is a writer, photographer, public speaker and advocates for the prevention of TBI. He gives several talks each year and publishes an annual anthology of his writings on spirituality, bravery, and recovery.”
The Advocacy Resource Center, who provides Rick with supports and services, shared his story on their LinkedIn page this month.
His photos, speeches, and stories uniquely represent the way Rick thinks and sees the world. His annual publication “Sudden Impact” is provided free of charge by Rick to increase awareness of TBI.
Rick’s mother Alice devoted the rest of her life to Rick. Together they pioneered TBI awareness, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. They documented Rick’s recovery by writing a book called “No Horns, No Trumpets.”
Care Manager Tammy Miller says,
Rick lives independently today and enjoys delivering his message of hope and awareness to audiences throughout the year.
Rick receives employment support and services through Workforce Network Employment Services at ARC. During these challenging times for so many, we appreciate those who are making a difference in the lives of our members.