Reconstructing Identity After Brain Injury: A Search for Hope and Optimism After Maxillofacial and Neurosurgery

by Stijn Geerinck

Reconstructing Identity After Brain Injury tells the remarkable story of Stijn Geerinck and his journey from road traffic accident to recovery. After he was hit by a drunk driver whilst cycling, Stijn suffered a traumatic brain injury and had to undergo drastic maxillofacial and neurosurgery. In his own words, this book narrates Stijn’s difficult recovery, focusing on the physical, medical, mental, social and financial changes he had to endure. It lays the groundwork for coping with permanent impairment resulting from TBI, including lifelong lesions and the irreversible physical changes. The testimonial narrative is complemented with philosophical insights, providing key philosopher’s reflections on the experience of brain injury. Stijn also explores the essential human characteristics of resilience, fighting spirit, emotionality, despair, vulnerability, hope, depression, optimism, anxiety, rationality, focus, anger and love, as he looks at the impact of his brain injury and resulting disfigurement on his masculine identity. It is essential reading for any professional involved in neuropsychological rehabilitation, and all those touched by this condition.

136 pages, Paperback

Published March 31, 2022

Reviews

[Donald Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stijn tells us how he coped with recovery following severe injuries suffered during a cycling accident, including brain damage. Stoicism is one of the philosophical tools that he has drawn upon on his journey in overcoming adversity. I think this book could be of great value to many people, especially those facing similar challenges in life.

[Molly Blakeman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read when I saw a job come up in TBI (before my dad had it haha). Nice to hear lived experience