DHR Health Hosts Recognition Event for Trauma Survivors

DHR Health’s Level I Trauma Center hosted a heartfelt and inspiring luncheon to honor trauma survivors and recognize the first responders and healthcare professionals who have played a pivotal role in saving lives and providing care in the face of life-threatening injuries. The event took place at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, with trauma survivors, their family members and caregivers, community first responders, firefighters, police officers, and the dedicated Level I Trauma Center team members of DHR Health in attendance.

A video message was played at the event from the Trauma Survivors Network, a support community for survivors and their families, who graciously thanked the Level I Trauma Center team members for hosting the event and staying connected with individuals as they rebuild their lives after traumatic injuries. Attendees also heard from keynote speaker Dr. Brian Moriarty, an orthopedic surgery resident at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas. Moriarty, a polytrauma survivor himself, shared his inspiring recovery journey and his decision to become an orthopedic surgeon.

“While we have monthly Trauma Survivors Network meetings where patients can receive support, this annual event is something we hold very near and dear to our hearts,” said Dr. Jeffrey Skubic, Medical Director of DHR Health’s Level I Trauma Center. “To be able to see these patients return to a normal life after being severely injured, and knowing that we played a role in their healing process, is truly rewarding. I am so grateful that these patients trust us with their lives in critical situations and give us the chance to perform at our best.”

A highlight of the gathering was the recognition of six trauma survivors who were treated at DHR Health’s Level I Trauma Center after surviving life-threatening injuries. They were honored for their bravery, recovery, and resilience.

Among the honorees were:

Amanda Gaylord: a trauma survivor who was a paramedic working in Laredo when an 18-wheeler crashed into her unit, after which she was airlifted to DHR Health’s Level I Trauma Center;

Isamar Kay Trevino: a trauma survivor of a motor vehicle collision who also benefitted from the hospital’s ECMO program, or Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation program;

Ruben Gonzalez: a trauma survivor of a penetrating stab wound;

Stephen Rogers: a trauma survivor who was a pedestrian involved in an auto accident;

City of Edinburg Police Officer Juan Hernandez: a trauma survivor who was injured when his police unit was struck by a drunk driver; and

Mario Gonzalez: a trauma survivor of a fire caused by an 18-wheeler.

Each survivor was presented with a token of appreciation, and photos were taken to commemorate the occasion with DHR Health Level I Trauma Care team members.

“Gatherings such as this one offer survivors the space to connect, share their stories, and witness the strength that comes from knowing they are not alone. These events remind us all of the importance of empathy, support, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity,” said Jennifer Volcy, DHR Health Trauma Program Director.

At the end of the event, Marissa Castaneda, DHR Health Senior Executive Vice President, reinforced the importance of community as well as DHR Health’s continuous commitment to providing a world-class health system that maximizes care for all residents of the Rio Grande Valley.