I hope that Gabrielle Giffords will survive and recover. Her doctors are optimistic. It’s possible that by random chance the bullet that went through her brain will not leave her with deficits that prevent her from enjoying her life.

But there is no good kind of traumatic brain injury. Even if she recovers now, there will most likely be effects later. You age, you use up your reserve, and the damage becomes apparent.

She’s a courageous woman. But don’t buy 100% into the great American redemption story. Brain trauma is a severe and atrocious injury. Gabrielle Giffords won’t be okay. She may prevail, but she’s suffered a loss, and one that should not have happened. Like so many of our young veterans, she’s been robbed by violence of what nature gave her.

Arizona has been robbed of her representation. Will a special election be called or will someone be appointed to fill her seat?