Arkansas Philanthropist Suffered 10,000 Hits to Head During Football Career, Pens Book and Establishes Foundation for Brain Injury Victims
BENTONVILLE, Ark., Jan. 8, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- After documenting more than 10,000 hits to the head as a football player in high school and college, Arkansas entrepreneur and philanthropist Randy Williams is publishing a new book, "10,000 Hits" to provide advocacy, hope and help for victims of traumatic brain injury – especially among the thousands of college and professional football players who may begin showing symptoms soon.
Once considered to be the smallest offensive lineman on a collegiate football scholarship, Williams tells the story of how football brought him everything good in life, but which will also shorten his life as a result of the injuries to his brain and body. While Williams' story is grounded in his experiences as a football player, his experiences dealing with the brain injuries are similar to the struggles anyone could experience with a chronic injury or illness, particularly when being dismissed by friends and family. His personal struggle and survival validates the struggles of millions of Americans who live with brain injuries. Williams' stance is compelling and fact-based, and mirrors one that could be told by the National Football League.
"No specific party or person caused my current situation," explains Williams. "The repeated injuries I sustained were caused by a culture. This culture is changing, and was changing when I played, but I want to provide education, help and support to those suffering from brain injuries, whether it came from football, military service, or accidents that happen during day-to-day living."
Williams has been an active businessman, philanthropist and advocate for the disadvantaged in Arkansas, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee and around the world. With the onset of symptoms that appear consistent with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), which is only confirmable via post-mortem examination, Williams' journey to diagnosis and treatment was marred by confusion, misunderstanding and rejection from family and friends. A self-made multi-millionaire, Williams roamed northwest Arkansas is a state of "technical homelessness" while trying to come to terms with his symptoms and situation.
"I'm not the only one who has traveled this road," insists Williams. "There are thousands of former football players, military service men and women, and moms and dads, brothers and sisters, who are struggling with the debilitating effects of brain injuries. They need to know they are not alone and that there is help available to them. They don't have to sit alone and wonder what is wrong with them."
While the movie "Concussion" is increasing awareness of head injuries, Williams is focusing on providing help and resources to others suffering from brain injuries. He established a non-profit foundation, Heads Up Help Foundation, and is publishing a book, "10,000 Hits" with all proceeds going to support those suffering from brain injuries.
"There are other foundations for brain injuries," added Williams. "But they are largely focused on research and treatment. The Heads Up Help Foundation (http://headsuphelp.org) seeks to directly help and support those experiencing the illness and work with other foundations by providing a critical bridge. We want to connect the injured and their families to resources, provide help, information, care and compassion."
For more information or for interview requests please contact:
Sherrie Hall Everett | 801-358-4147 | [email protected]
Video, Photos & Rich Content: https://headsuphelp.org/media-press
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160107/320149
SOURCE Heads Up Help Foundation
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