Brain Injury Month Proclamation

WHEREAS, brain injuries affect people of all ages, races, genders, and backgrounds. They can happen for many
reasons, including falls, car accidents, overdose, and medical episodes; and

WHEREAS, brain injury can impact a person in many ways, such as affecting their speech, memory, decision-
making, impulsivity, sleep, mental health, substance use, mobility, and their ability to advocate for themselves; and

WHEREAS, brain injury is now seen as a long-term and chronic health condition as survivors experience various
enduring symptoms and evolving needs that crossover into multiple healthcare services; and

WHEREAS, every year, an estimated 2.8 million Americans suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This leads to
nearly 2.5 million emergency room visits, 225,000 hospital stays, and 65,000 deaths annually. Currently, more than 5.3 million Americans live with a permanent brain injury or related disability; and

WHEREAS, in Colorado, more than 5,000 people were hospitalized with a brain injury. However, it is estimated
that over 500,000 Coloradans have experienced a brain injury; and

WHEREAS, a high number of people who are incarcerated reported a brain injury before they became involved
with the justice system, and at least 60% of those who entered the criminal justice system have a history of brain
injury in their lifetime; and

WHEREAS, more than 50% of people experiencing homelessness or housing instability will incur a brain injury in
their lives, and certain groups have a higher risk of brain injury, including racial and ethnic minorities, military
service members and veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and survivors of intimate partner violence; and

WHEREAS, public awareness of brain injuries is critical to prevention initiatives, understanding the nature of these
injuries, enhancing recovery of survivors, and supporting caregivers;
THEREFORE, I, Jared Polis, Governor of the state of Colorado, do hereby proclaim March, 2026, as

BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH