New Steelers foundation aims to educate about brain injuries

Many Pennsylvania residents around the state are enjoying another exciting season of Pittsburgh Steelers football. The legendary team is again hoping to add another championship to its impressive resume.

In the meantime, the team is taking other steps to advance the lives of those around the state and the country as a whole. With the Steelers’ help, a new foundation known as the Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research was recently launched. The foundation, named after famed Steelers coach Chuck Noll, will support research and education about brain injuries and the treatment of concussions.

Concussions have become a major issue in recent years for professional football, as well as collegiate and high school football. There has been an increased awareness about how frequently players suffer concussions while playing the sport. Accordingly, coaches, players and others have begun to better recognize the symptoms of concussions and increase the level of care for those players who have suffered one.

At the same time, there is a long way to go. Many still dismiss the symptoms of concussions or lack an appreciation for how serious a brain injury may be on the person.

Individuals may also fail to realize that a traumatic brain injury can occur in many other contexts aside from contact sports. For example, car accidents are a major source for brain injuries, even if those involved in the car crash may not immediately recognize they have suffered such an injury. Accordingly, no matter whether a person is on the playing field or in a car accident or other incident, they should be aware of the symptoms of brain injuries and what they need to do in order to get immediate treatment.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, “Steelers help launch Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research with $1 million contribution,” Gerry Dulac, Nov. 17, 2016