Parents Raise Awareness on Concussion Risks After Son's Accident

Bickley and his wife Tory are highlighting the serious consequences of concussions in children following a traumatic incident involving their son, Xavier. While on holiday in Aldinga, just south of Adelaide, Xavier suffered significant injuries after falling off his bike. In a distressing call to his parents, he simply pleaded for help, unaware of the severity of his situation. Upon finding him, Bickley discovered a disoriented Xavier struggling to carry his bike, exhibiting clear signs of concussion alongside injuries to his shoulder, face, and a broken arm. Tory recounted the harrowing experience, noting that Xavier repeatedly asked if he had fallen off his bike and believed that those around him were trying to hurt him due to the pain he felt from any touch. The couple feared they had lost the son they once knew, as Xavier's condition deteriorated. Bickley, a former professional football player who has experienced head injuries himself, reflected on the stark contrast between his own recovery and Xavier's alarming state, which at one point raised concerns about the need for an induced coma. The incident has prompted Bickley to advocate for a shift in societal attitudes towards concussions. He emphasized that while many individuals may dismiss the seriousness of concussions based on their own experiences, it is crucial to recognize that not all cases result in a full recovery. Bickley urges a reevaluation of how concussions are perceived and managed, particularly in children.