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A RENFREW woman has told how a freak accident caused a head injury that left her with a broad Edinburgh accent.

Jan Bunch was at her work when the door of a metal fuse box swung loose and struck her head, slicing it open.

After going to hospital so the wound could be stitched, she was sent home but began to display bizarre symptoms – including a change in her voice from its usual west of Scotland tone to a thick Edinburgh slant.

When Jan’s family noticed the change and also became concerned that she was “getting things back to front,” they took her to hospital for a CT scan.

She was then referred to a specialist and was later diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome.

Recalling her frightening ordeal, Jan told The Gazette: “My family noticed that I was acting strange. I suddenly had a clear, broad Edinburgh accent and was talking different, getting things back to front.

“They took me back to Accident and Emergency and I received a CT scan.

“My doctor sent me to a specialist and it turned out I had post-concussion syndrome. I was recommended for a neurological investigation, CT scans and a MRI scan.

“My family didn’t understand what I was going through. I was very down. It was like balancing on a tightrope – I didn’t know if I was going to fall.”

Jan spoke of her experiences to highlight the role played in her recovery by the Quarriers Renfrewshire Head Injury Service.

Experts from Bridge of Weir-based social care charity Quarriers provide a tailored service for survivors of brain injury, as well as their family and carers, and run various groups for clients, depending on the stage of their recovery.

Jan was referred to the service by Renfrewshire Council’s Advice Works team, which offers support with financial issues, after her accident in May 2017.

“I was struggling financially and asked for help from Advice Works,” she said. “They made a referral to the Renfrewshire Head Injury Service.

“I was introduced to the Sunshine Club, which runs every Friday afternoon at the Tannahill Centre, in Paisley. I am now a volunteer activities worker. I wanted to give back the advice and understanding I received and I feel very proud that I can help other people with head injuries.”

As a further boost, Jan has now been offered a relief contract to help at the Sunshine Club.

Anyone who would like to help Quarriers by volunteering should call 01505 616109 or email volunteer.centre@quarriers.org.uk.

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