Zak Brownrigg Concussion Recovery Fund

On Feb 4th, 2018, Zak suffered his 3rd concussion in 3 years. Since then, the frail state of Zak’s brain has led to numerous re-injuries with his condition deteriorating over time. Sadly, Zak has spent over two and a half years severely debilitated.

As a result of his condition, Zak has missed weddings, baptisms, and other important events. However, isolation from friends and family is what pains him the most. For over two years, Zak has only been able to interact with others for fifteen minutes at a time. He cannot watch tv, read, or go online, and can only leave the house for medical appointments. Zak longs to return to his active self. He used to enjoy biking, swing dancing, playing sports, reading, studying, and socializing.

Zak has tried some of the best concussion treatment centers in Ottawa. While there have been signs of progress along the way, so far nothing has worked long term. Crucially, Zak was diagnosed with dysautonomia, a condition which prevents the nervous system from functioning properly.

Simple everyday tasks like opening doors, lifting very light objects, and small noises aggravate Zak’s concussion symptoms. As such, he is highly dependent on his family for daily help, like cooking, cutting his food, and opening his doors. At the age of 32, this is certainly not how Zak envisioned his life.

However, he has renewed hope as he was recently introduced to

a specialized treatment center with technology not available in Ottawa. Cognitive FX (CFX), is concussion and dysautonomia treatment center based outside Salt Lake City, Utah. CFX’s individually tailored treatment plan includes FNCI brain scans, which detect neuro vascular decoupling. These can be far more effective than MRIs and CT scans, which have not worked on Zak. Furthermore, an acquaintance of his was treated at CFX after over six years of similar symptoms. Through the treatment, she experienced remarkable progress, is now able to work full time, and describes herself as 85% recovered.

While Zak has been approved for a two week treatment plan at CFX, its cost is an obstacle. The treatment itself is approximately $30,000 CAD, and is not covered by OHIP. Furthermore, Zak is on Ontario Disability, and has no insurance. In addition, his father would have to go with him, as Zak’s condition makes travelling alone impossible.

Therefore, funds raised would contribute to the following estimates:

• Treatment at CFX: $30,000

• Two roundtrip flights: $3500

• Hotel: $3000

• Rental car: $1500

• Meals: $1000

• Ongoing remote treatment: $300/month

Total: $42,000 (including 12 months of remote treatment)

As Zak’s twin brother, I am inspired by his faith and hope in this very difficult time. His wholehearted belief that he will recover has kept him from slipping into despair. He has told me many times that he longs to hold and play with his nephew and two nieces. I also long for them to know their uncle, who loves them with all of his heart.

Please consider donating to Zak’s recovery fund. Any amount would be most helpful and deeply appreciated by our entire family.