Concussion Protocol
The Story
The NFL is kicking off a new concussion protocol.
Give me the play-by-play.
On Sunday, the NFL and NFL Players Association (NFLPA) enforced modifications to its protocols that will “enhance the safety of the players.” It comes weeks after Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa suffered two injuries during recent games — including one that showed potential signs of a traumatic brain injury. The incidents sparked a joint investigation into the handling (or lack) of concussion protocols. Now, the NFL and NFLPA are adding “ataxia” (poor coordination and balance because of neurological damage) to their list of mandatory "no-go" symptoms. Meaning, an athlete diagnosed with ataxia will receive follow-up care and cannot play until they're cleared. Others already on the list include confusion, amnesia, and loss of consciousness.
What else did the investigation find?
During a game against the Buffalo Bills, Tagovailoa blamed his disorientation on a back injury. An unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant was one of the people that said Tagovailoa didn’t show symptoms of a concussion — and sent him back into the game without examining his back. (The consultant has since been fired.) Four days later, Tagovailoa suffered a hit to the head during another game and was sent to the hospital. Now, the NFL’s chief medical officer said under the new rules, Tagovailoa would’ve never been allowed to go back on the field. The NFL and NFLPA admit the outcome was not “intended” when the protocols were first drafted in 2013, but that medics had followed the rules as written.
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The NFL hopes its response could help provide a safer environment for a sport running rampant with brain injuries. So far, the new rule has already sidelined another Miami Dolphins QB.
Skimm the Midterms: Ukraine and Russia
We’re about a month out from Election Day. Here's the latest on one of the big topics voters care about:
Yesterday, at least a dozen people were killed after Russia launched missile attacks across Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin says it’s retaliation after a bridge linking Crimea with Russia was damaged. The attacks were some of the worst since the beginning of Russia’s invasion — with missiles striking civilian areas and knocking out power and water in multiple regions. President Biden condemned the move, saying the US will stand with the people of Ukraine for “as long as it takes.”
Back home, Americans are feeling the effects of the war through inflation and rising prices caused in part by the Kremlin’s invasion. US support for Ukraine is mostly bipartisan. One poll found that nearly half of respondents would support sending more aid to Ukraine, as long as there are diplomatic efforts to end the war. Another found that nearly 70% would back a candidate who supports continued military aid.
To keep up with all the midterms latest, you can Skimm your ballot and make sure you’re registered to vote before your state's deadline.
And Also...This
What’s hitting the pause button…
Vanderbilt University Medical Center. On Friday, officials at the private nonprofit hospital paused gender-affirming surgeries for minors. In a letter to a Tennessee lawmaker, the hospital said it’s putting the procedure for patients under the age of 18 on hold while it reviews “new recommendations.” It comes about a month after videos of a doctor reportedly calling the procedures “huge money makers” appeared online — prompting Republican leaders to call for an investigation into the hospital…even though it’s still not clear what specific laws may have been violated. Now, hospital officials say reviewing new guidance issued by an international org of experts could take several months. Republican lawmakers in the state — who are vowing to pass legislation limiting transgender Tennesseans’ access to treatments — are calling it “a win for the safety of our children.” But advocates, like the ACLU, argue that doctors providing “trans youth with this critical care are saving lives.”
Who has people's attention…
Kanye West. Yesterday, Twitter confirmed it had joined Instagram in suspending the rapper’s accounts. West is already facing backlash for wearing — and having models wear — a “White Lives Matter” shirt at his fashion show in Paris last week. And for targeting Vogue editor, Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, after she called the shirts "pure violence." Now, he's getting flak for posting a series of antisemitic messages. Those posts have since been removed. The Anti-Defamation League called it “deeply troubling.” Celebrities from Jamie Lee Curtis to Sarah Silverman have condemned West. TBD on how long the restrictions will stay in place, but it hasn’t stopped West from posting on other platforms like YouTube.
Not a first: West has been open about his struggles with mental health challenges, including his bipolar disorder. And has made headlines for past erratic behavior. He’s also been suspended from Instagram before, like when he called “Daily Show” host Trevor Noah a racial slur.
What’s pumping the brakes…
Rivian. Yesterday, shares of the EV maker sank about 9% after recalling nearly all of its about 13,000 cars. The Amazon-backed company’s citing a potentially loose fastener that could cause drivers to lose steering control. Now, Rivian has to switch to high gear to meet 2023 production expectations.
What’s bumpier than a roller coaster ride…
While Emily Sisson is running it back…
Ben Bernanke is also celebrating a win.
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