Recovery (TV series)

Recovery is a British television drama series that aired on BBC One in 2007. The two-part series stars David Tennant and Sarah Parish as Alan and Jane Hamilton, a couple whose lives are irrevocably changed when Alan suffers a traumatic brain injury.

The story follows Alan's journey through the initial trauma, coma, and subsequent rehabilitation. It explores the profound impact his injury has on his personality, memory, and overall cognitive function. Jane, as his wife and caregiver, faces immense challenges in adjusting to the “new Alan” and navigating the complex emotions and practical demands of his care.

The series focuses not only on Alan and Jane, but also on their son, who struggles to understand the changes in his father, and the wider network of family and friends affected by the situation. It depicts the medical and therapeutic interventions employed to aid Alan's recovery, highlighting the dedication and expertise of healthcare professionals.

Recovery aims to portray the realities of living with acquired brain injury, emphasizing the long and arduous process of rehabilitation, the emotional toll on patients and their families, and the often-unpredictable nature of recovery. The series is noted for its realistic portrayal of the neurological effects of brain injury and its sensitive handling of the complex human relationships affected by it. The show seeks to raise awareness of the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by brain injury and to offer a nuanced perspective on the journey of recovery.