I Owe My Life to Prince George's Hospital - washingtonpost.com

Three years ago, I was a very sick patient in the shock trauma unit of Prince George's Hospital Center. I wouldn't be here right now without the determination and support of the amazing staff of that hospital. I hope that the politicians who hold the future of the hospital in their hands can take a step take back and realize what would be lost if it closes.

On July 6, 2004, a month after graduating from Maurice J. McDonough High School, I was involved in a devastating car accident -- one that altered my life forever. While I was driving home from swim practice, my 1994 Chevy Camaro was hit on the driver's side by a dump truck. The impact of the crash demolished the Camaro, and rescue workers had to use the "jaws of life" to pry open the surreal wreckage to reach me. I was in grave condition as I was transported to Prince George's Hospital. My parents later told me that I had only 15 minutes to live. My heart had been knocked across my chest, and I had lost 60 percent of my blood.

I suffered a broken clavicle, pelvis and ribs, and severe nerve damage to my left shoulder. I was stabilized after several operations, but it was unclear whether I had brain damage or what my quality of life would be.

I spent more than two months in a chemically induced coma. I lost 100 pounds, and my parents stood over my bed and wept at my condition. When I regained consciousness, I was still in excruciating pain from the severe injuries.

Over the next few months, I endured paralysis, pneumonia, infections, seizures and more pain. But the nurses and doctors at Prince George's Hospital never gave up. Along with my family and friends, those compassionate and caring doctors and nurses became part of my support group and were instrumental in my recovery.

Even as I improved physically, I remained confused and struggled with amnesia and basic functions. Then, suddenly, I started talking. All the nurses and doctors ran in, breaking into tears when they heard me speak. It was the moment they had been hoping for.

My miracle was the result of their care.

My mother says that Prince George's hospital does not get the credit it deserves -- my family knows that the people there make miracles happen, because I am alive and thriving.

After 14 surgeries, 36 blood transfusions and 13 plasma treatments, I am doing well, beyond anyone's expectations. I just finished my second year at St. Mary's College, where I compete on the swim team. I am also a personal trainer and am training to compete in an ironman triathlon.

If Prince George's Hospital had not been there, I would not be here. I know that there are many people like me whose lives were saved by the hospital's caring and talented staff. I can't imagine our community without the hospital.

I urge county leaders to do whatever it takes to keep Prince George's Hospital open. Our lives depend on it.