A brain injury is like a fingerprint, no two are alike | Kevin Pearce | TEDxLincolnSquare

Summary

In 2009, snowboarder Kevin Pierce was on track to win gold at the Vancouver Winter Olympics when a severe accident left him with a traumatic brain injury. After months in critical care and rehabilitation, he faced the daunting reality of his limitations. Despite doctors' warnings, Pierce's determination led him to defy expectations and work tirelessly towards recovery. Now, he focuses on living a mindful life, sharing his story to inspire others.

Takeaways

• 🏅 Kevin Pierce was intensely focused on winning gold at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, practicing a difficult trick called the double cork.
• 🏥 In late 2009, while training in Park City, Utah, Kevin suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that led to being airlifted and spending 36 days in critical care with no memory of that time.
• 🧠 Kevin explains that brain injuries are vastly unknown, and each one is unique like a fingerprint. His brain injury made it difficult for him to recognize the severity of his condition.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kevin's family played a critical role in his recovery, particularly his mother, whose advice he found hard to follow but essential for his healing process.
• 🌍 After three and a half months in the hospital, Kevin struggled to adjust to a new life, no longer snowboarding and navigating the long process of rehabilitation.
• 🥇 Kevin was one of the top snowboarders, considered a major competitor to Shaun White, making his injury even more devastating.
• 👁️ Kevin had to undergo surgery to realign his eyes, but doctors told him he would have to live with double vision for the rest of his life, a diagnosis he refuses to accept.
• 🎯 Kevin shifted his focus from becoming the best snowboarder to living a mindful, present life, recognizing the importance of every moment.
• 🛑 He acknowledged the risks he took not only affected him but his loved ones, and listening to his family became a key part of his recovery process.
• 💪 Despite the challenges, Kevin remains determined to heal from his double vision and continue improving his overall well-being, though the timeline remains uncertain.

Q & A

What event was Kevin Pierce preparing for in late 2009?

Kevin Pierce was preparing for the Vancouver Winter Olympics in late 2009.

What is the significance of the 'double cork' in Kevin Pierce's story?

The 'double cork' is a difficult snowboarding trick that Kevin Pierce was trying to master in preparation for the Olympics, showing his dedication and focus on his goal.

What injury did Kevin Pierce suffer, and when did it happen?

Kevin Pierce suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) on December 31st, 2009, while training in Park City, Utah.

How did Kevin Pierce’s life change after his injury?

After his injury, Kevin Pierce spent over three months in critical care and rehabilitation, and his focus shifted from competitive snowboarding to recovering and leading a mindful life.

What was the prognosis for Kevin Pierce’s vision, and how did he respond to it?

Doctors told Kevin Pierce that it was not realistic to expect single vision in every direction for the rest of his life. However, Kevin refused to accept this prognosis and remains determined to heal his double vision.

How does Kevin describe the difference between his previous injuries and his brain injury?

Kevin explains that with previous injuries like broken bones, his brain would signal the injury and he could easily understand the need to heal. However, with his brain injury, his mind did not recognize the damage, and he initially believed he could still compete.

What role did Kevin’s family, especially his mother, play in his recovery?

Kevin's family, particularly his mother, played a crucial role in his recovery by guiding him through difficult decisions, such as undergoing rehabilitation and re-learning life skills. Kevin attributes much of his progress to listening to her advice.

What personal challenges does Kevin Pierce still face years after his injury?

Kevin Pierce continues to work on healing his double vision and the lasting effects of his brain injury, which he describes as a daily challenge even seven years after the accident.

How did Kevin’s focus shift after his injury?

After his injury, Kevin shifted his focus from becoming the best snowboarder in the world to living a mindful and present life, emphasizing the importance of appreciating each moment.

What is Kevin Pierce’s message about living in the present moment?

Kevin’s message is that the present moment is the only one we truly have, and he encourages others to be mindful and appreciate the here and now, as this is what matters most in life.