Welcome to Insight Out with Richard and Allan – the place where a clinical neuropsychologist and a victim of a road traffic accident, discuss his experience of life post-accident.
Allan has had support from many people to get to where he is in recovery today, and he wants to offer his own insight to what he has gone through, helping not only people with brain injuries and those who care for them, but anyone going through mental health difficulties. Whilst there are plenty of available resources from professionals and well-known individuals, Allan and Richard hope to use this opportunity to offer relatable experiences from an ordinary person. They hope to validate the unique pathway that each individual takes on their journey to recovery and share insight into life with a brain injury.
We will follow the journey Allan has had since the moment he woke up in hospital, covering topics such as anxiety, fatigue, body dysmorphia, financial vulnerability and more, largely in the context of adjustment. Having since run a marathon and climbed the 4 highest peaks in Britain – Allan has had a truly remarkable journey!
Words from Allan: I was a young guy who acquired his brain injury following the result of a car accident I was only a front seat passenger in. I was a very fit, young and active guy and when I woke up out of my coma, this is where my life began – but nowhere close to what I had before that awful afternoon!
I have got to a point in my life and recovery that I would like to talk about, share my personal experiences and to guide those with an A.B.I. (acquired brain injury) or who support or know someone with neuro issues.
I have been very fortunate in my recovery that I have managed to do so well in such a short period of time, but I wish I had podcasts like I am creating to guide me, to explain what I feel isn’t bad or wrong and that just listening to a bit of support can make a big difference in your future.