Valley Health Hosts Trauma Survivor Celebration, Honoring Resilience, Courage and Healing

On National Trauma Survivors Day, Valley Health welcomed trauma survivors and their families to the Winchester Medical Center (WMC) Conference Center for our first Trauma Survivor Celebration. The event honored the incredible journeys of these individuals and gave them the opportunity to reconnect and thank the care teams who helped save their lives at WMC. 

With more than 100 attendees, the event was led by Autumn Davis, Trauma Program Manager, and Dr. Terral Goode, Trauma Medical Director. Davis opened by introducing the trauma team and their roles in patient care. Dr. Goode then shared each survivor’s story and acknowledged the caregivers involved in their recovery. After each story, he presented awards to the teams whose coordination and skill contributed to the patient’s healing journey. 

Meet the Survivors: Stories of Resilience and Strength 

Josh (August 10, 2024): 
Josh was an unrestrained driver who was ejected from his vehicle during a serious collision. He arrived at WMC under the highest trauma alert, suffering from a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. After 23 days of care at WMC and continued rehabilitation, Josh returned to thank his care team. In an emotional speech, he shared, “Because of you, I get to hug my family. I get to look forward to tomorrow.” 

Mac (September 13, 2024): 
Mac spent 42 days at WMC, including 14 days in a coma, after hitting a deer while riding his motorcycle without a helmet. He sustained a traumatic brain injury and had to relearn basic functions. His recovery, supported by daily physical, occupational, and speech therapy, was described as “amazing.” Mac credited his care team for helping restore his cognitive abilities. Speaking of his neurosurgeon, Dr. David Salvetti, he said, “He’s the main reason why my brain is back and why I’m still here.” 

Keith (May 1, 2024): 
Keith survived a devastating motorcycle crash on Route 50 that resulted in the loss of his leg and multiple surgeries. Despite these challenges, his humor and resilience inspired everyone. “The people that saved me made me so comfortable and confident that I would survive, it didn’t seem that bad to me,” he said. 

Ken (October 12, 2021): 
Ken was t-boned while riding his motorcycle, suffering a brain hematoma and a broken back. Treated initially at Inova Health System, Ken now participates in the Trauma Survivors Network (TSN) at WMC. Perry McAllister, Injury Prevention, Education, and Outreach Trauma Coordinator, and TSN Coordinator, was recognized with a special award for her leadership and support. Today, Ken competes in Highland Games, a Scottish and Celtic celebration featuring athletic competitions, proudly wearing his kilt. 

“It is a privilege to provide trauma care to this community. WMC is the safety net. You are called to serve, and your excellence makes a difference every single day.” 

-Tonya Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Valley Health 

A special thank you to Valley Health Foundations for helping to support this inspiring event.