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www.insideHALTON.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, March 2, 2012 · 10 A lesson to be learned from Crosby's concussion By Selina Sharma Grade 11, Abbey Park H.S. t's been more than a year since Sidney Crosby was sidelined with a concussion. During the 2011 Winter Classic, Sidney was struck by a I devastating blow to the head by former Washington Capitals player, David Steckel. Crosby experienced mild concussion-like symptoms and continued to play the remainder of the game. It was only a couple of days later that he found himself on the receiving end of another hit, only this time the symptoms were significantly more concerning. The star player of the Pittsburgh Penguins was forced to sit out 61 games, due to a severe concussion and still has not fully recovered. Concussions don't happen to just star athletes -- any hockey player at any skill level or age is susceptible. Sometimes people don't realize just how dangerous injuries like concussions can be or they're unaware that they might be suffering from one. The most common symptoms are headaches, nausea or blurred vision. PATIO FURNITURE SALE HELD OVER UNTIL MARCH 18TH. With our new 2012 patio furniture styles arriving daily, we are extending our FURNITURE SALE COME IN. SEE WHAT'S NEW PICK YOUR STYLE PICK YOUR PIECES PICK YOUR FABRICS EARLY BUY CUSTOM ORDER 30 OFF60 % TO ON ALL CUSTOM ORDERS Styles shown and many more available. Custom Order Discounts available until March 18, 2012 QEW 3RD LINE BRONTE WE OFFER % These symptoms can also appear differently in different people. The tricky aspect about that is a headache and feeling nauseous are also most commonly thought to be the result of the flu. When you suffer from a concussion, it's due to the brain shifting around inside the head from the impact. The brain is the main source of our ability to function, which makes it one of the most vital organs in the human body. Suffering a concussion could disrupt regular neurological function, cause memory loss, fractures in the skull, and lead to an array of other issues. Although Crosby hasn't released Burlington's Largest International Buy now, leave a deposit and take delivery in April All style groupings from world renowned suppliers such as: Actiwin, Ebel, Lloyd Flanders, Summer Classics, O. W. Lee, Alfresco, Tropitone, Jensen, Gensun and more. Choose from All Weather Resin Wicker, Cast Aluminum, Wrought Aluminum, Wrought Iron and Tubular Aluminum. ESP PSYCHIC FAIR chicfair.com www.esppsy March 9th, 10th & 11th Friday: 2pm-10pm Saturday: 11am-10pm Sunday: 11am-7pm much to the public on his symptoms, the fact that he's missed more than a year of games speaks for itself. There are spectators out there that will make negative remarks about Crosby's situation, stating that he is merely making this a bigger deal than it is. Yes, Crosby was wearing a helmet during both hits and yes, he has been in the league for a while now, but does that change the fact that he is still fighting a serious concussion? The hit from Steckel has been played continuously on numerous highlight reels and in the news, garnering a lot of attention from fans and the media. Crosby's reaction after the hit is cringe worthy. The NHLer grew up playing hockey everyday, and to miss ten months worth of games must have been more than heart breaking for him. He returned to play seven games the following season, only to have those same symptoms return in December 2011. "The impact isn't everything. You have to listen to your body on these things too," Crosby told reporters during an interview. Perhaps, better education on concussions could help to prevent them from occurring during hockey games -- players who know the full negative effects of a concussion may think twice before going through with that major hit. And just because you wear a helmet on ice does not guarantee you will avoid the risk of getting a concussion. Crosby has certainly set an example of how serious they can be. It's been two months since Sidney's last game and his fans are still eagerly awaiting his return. If you are a teacher or student interested in participating in an upcoming Kids Speak Out - School News column featured in the Beaver, please e-mail Tom Dykes at dykes@cogeco.ca. Baby Steps Fair Oakville's Baby Fair! 2316 Fairview St., Burlington Polish Hall Sunday, March 11, 2012 10am-5pm Oakville Conference Centre X 4TH LINE DORVAL SPEERS RD. 1318 SPEERS RD. OAKVILLE · 905.847.8551 Prenatal to Preschool Psychics, Tarot Cards, Auras, Palmistry, Crystals, Astrology - Tea Leaves Reading, Lectures & More. $4 with this ad and receive a Shop for Everything from www.oakvillehomeleisure.ca Store hours; Tuesday to Friday 9am - 6pm, Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm Closed Mondays during March. Sale prices on NEW purchases only. VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT Admission: $5 Good for All Dates Shopping, Workshops, Prizes and More! b a b y st e p s f a i r . c o m FREE GEMSTONE, FREE PARKING