Patient Stories | Jackson Health System

Patient Miracle Stories

“I’m thankful to the team who saved my life.”

At Ryder Trauma Center, we have helped thousands of patients survive some of the most traumatic injuries. Some of those grateful patients have shared their traumatic stories how Ryder Trauma saved their lives. We invite you to read, share, and comment on their stories.

Jorge Valdes

When champion gymnast Jorge Valdes heard that Cirque du Soleil was holding auditions for its Las Vegas show, he was determined to make the cut.

Woody sitting in his wheelchair, he's holding a backpack that says The Woody Foundation

James “Woody” Beckham

During a January 2011 rugby game between Florida Atlantic University and the University of Miami, FAU team member James “Woody” Beckham was tackled and left paralyzed from the chest down.

Carlos Castillo

In April 2010, Miami-Dade Police Detective Carlos Castillo was viciously attacked during a traffic stop in Liberty City.

Steven Avila

In September 2009, Hialeah Gardens police officer Steven Avila and his brother-in-law were working on a boat when it burst into flames.

Jody Wright

In September 2007, Miami-Dade Police Officer Jody Wright and three other officers pulled over a vehicle that was driving erratically in Southwest Miami-Dade.

Erik on a motorcycle and smiling at the camera

Erik Santana

Two months after buying a sports motorcycle, Hialeah resident Erik Santana lost control in broad daylight after another vehicle cut him off in oncoming traffic.

Close up image of Cooper smiling for the camera

Cooper Grecco

“I don’t know what I would do without Jackson and my family,” Cooper said. “I credit the nurses and doctors for saving my life and putting me back together.”

Desiree Meyer

In 2005, Desiree Meyer was on vacation in Turkey with her husband and two children when they were involved in a minor car accident.

Herminie Eyma Pedro Medina

In July 2003, Herminie Eyma Pedro Medina was walking out of a restaurant in her native Port-au-Prince, Haiti, when a car pulled up near her and someone inside fired a bullet in her direction.

Shauna Pender Vetrano

Two weeks after being crowned Miss Florida in 2003, Shauna Pender Vetrano traveled to Miami for a charity event.

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