Personalized Support Helps Ralph Stay on Track with his Recovery

Video games have always helped Ralph Topps relax. He likes the thrill of making quick decisions based on evidence gleaned from the virtual surroundings created on the screen. Star Wars and Indiana Jones games offer the challenges he likes the best. Now this long enjoyed pastime has taken on new meaning. Ralph plays strategically to help his brain recover from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) he sustained during a shock wave from an improvised explosive device (IED) blast.

Ralph’s service is extensive, with five tours of duty that took him to Iraq and Afghanistan. Near the end of his last tour, he started having headaches, balance problems and dizzy spells, and his ability to concentrate was impaired. He also experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and ringing in his ears. Once his TBI was diagnosed, Ralph knew everything had changed. He felt he was floundering, not sure what steps to take next. A call to Operation TBI Freedom (OTF), helped him not only get help for his physical problems, but allowed him to step back and organize his life.

“First we helped Ralph fill out his benefits paperwork,” said OTF Care Coordinator Donya Blair. “We were also able to get a back rest for Ralph. Assistive technologies, both a PDA and a GPS, allow Ralph to make and keep appointments. Ralph also volunteers at a phone bank to sharpen his job skills, and he plans to go back to school to upgrade his computer skills,” Donya explained.

Ralph appreciates the effort Donya puts in to provide him with comprehensive support. “Donya helps me stay on track and follows up with every request,” he said. One of Ralph’s most prized possessions is an eagle cane that he received through Donya’s efforts. Hand carved by woodworkers through the Eagle Cane Project, each cane is unique and provides an artistic representation of support and respect.

Ralph never thought about video games offering unique learning experiences before his TBI. Now these games have taken on a real life dimension. He feels the future holds untested ground. His ability to assess and act on the best options can make a big difference in the quality of his future endeavors. “That’s where Donya comes in—she’s helping me find the support I need,” Ralph said with a smile. “She’s made a real difference in my life.”