Directed by Jerri Sher, this meaningful documentary presents hope for individuals who suffer from traumatic brain injury (TBI) with facts on clinical treatments from leading medical experts and support groups. TBI is defined as “an insult to the brain from external mechanical force leading to permanent or temporary impairment of cognition, physical, or psycho-social functions."
In the film, ten individuals describe their brain insults: football hits, combat blasts, surfing falls, gymnastics smacks, firefighting hazards, heart surgery, and even sexual assault. Physicians and neuroscientists with special expertise in brain trauma offer innovative ways of treating TBI.
The film begins with a Joe Rogan Experience podcast featuring guests Andrew Mar, a retired U.S. Army Green Beret who talks about his brain injuries resulting from numerous detonations in combat, and Dr. Mark Gordon, a neuroendocrinologist who is noted for treating brain trauma with hormone replacement therapy, vitamins, and physiological methods. Dr. Gordon treats Andrew and several individuals interviewed in the film. Writing Tales from the Blast Factory, Andrew Mar and his brother Adam create the Warrior Angels Foundation to help other veterans suffering from TBI.
Dr. Daniel G. Amen, clinical psychologist and clinical neuroscientist, comments that the brain is the most complicated organ in the body, containing thousands of nerve cells. Since the brain is made up of soft tissue enclosed in a hard, bony ridged case, it can be injured when subjected to shaking or collisions. The flip side is that the brain can repair itself and even grow new neurons. Dr. Amen tells of meeting retired NFL football player Anthony Davis who suffers from having a quick temper, weak memory, and poor judgment. Dr. Amen scans his brain, notes it looks like an 85-year-old brain and recommends treatment. Colleague Dr. Kristen Willeumier, also a neuroscientist, describes using Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) to help individuals with brain injuries from collision sports.
After participating in Operation Phantom Fury on a two-man assault team, Marine Corps veteran Ben Driebergen returns home and experiences emotional trauma from losing his teammate. Dr. Amen notes that emotional trauma can lead to brain insults as well. Ben tells of thoughts of suicide; with treatment, Ben begins to improve and goes on to win a season of Survivor.
Shawn, a two-time record holder for surfing the largest waves, discovers he has endured hundreds of concussions resulting in depression, memory problems, and thoughts of suicide. Shawn sees Dr. Scott Sherr, who specializes in Hyper Baric Oxygen Therapy which reduces inflammation and increases oxygen and blood flow to the body.
Along with Dr. Gordon, clinical psychologist Dr. Robert Sammons, Jr. describes using transcranial magnetic therapy (TMS) at VA centers; this therapy uses a magnetic pulse to elicit brain cell activity. Other individuals discuss their injuries and the impactful help they have received from Dr. Gordon and other physicians. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P.