Patricia's Story

Patricia was a student at California State University, East Bay, where she was a year away from graduating with a degree in criminal justice. What started as a normal day for her; going to the local hardware store with her brother to pick up some supplies, ended in a tragic automobile accident. Patricia suffered a traumatic brain injury and was in a coma for four months.

After spending another six months recovering in the hospital, Patricia began her rehabilitation at the Alta Bates Summit Inpatient Rehabilitation unit. It was here that she began to learn how to walk and talk again. From being a very independent young woman, Patricia had to now get help with the basics of daily living.

Diane a physical therapist, said, “Patricia was fun to work with. She kept an upbeat attitude and progressed very well. Her brother was very supportive and visited her often. He was very motivating in her recovery.”

“My family really came through for me,” said Patricia. “Although this has been the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced, it has made me a stronger person.”

Barbara, a registered nurse and coordinator of the Alta Bates Summit Spasticity Management Program, says, “Patricia continues to do really well. She participated in our Life Skills group for patients with brain injury and her confidence has gradually increased. Last May she got a Baclofen Pump which has helped her manage her spasticity and allowed her to come off her oral medications. She started using Paratransit on her own and now she is learning how to drive again. She is also re-enrolled in school.”