Life Changing Accident Leads to a Family's New Chapter
On May 8, 2023, Alexandria and Marc Cahill and their family were devastated when two of their children – Jordan (22) and little Milan (9) – were hit by a car while they were standing on the sidewalk. Milan sustained severe injuries in the accident, including a broken neck, a spinal cord injury, a traumatic brain injury and many injuries to her internal organs.
After spending five weeks in critical care at Johns Hopkins, Milan came to MWPH for inpatient rehabilitation. For the next four months, she received physical, occupational and speech therapy, as well as neuropsychology support.
Compassionate Care, Clinical Expertise
MWPH's signature combination of clinical expertise and compassionate, personalized approach were key to helping the whole family come to terms with their new reality. Milan's mother, Alexandria Cahill, said, "Anything we need, or any questions we have, everyone at MWPH is eager to help. When we feel overwhelmed, they are right by our side," she noted, "I've never had a negative experience, from the day Milan got there to now."
Milan received outpatient physical and occupational therapy at MWPH, as well as psychology and neuropsychology follow-up care for months. While under the hospital's care, MWPH's team arranged for additional follow-up care as well, including visits with rehabilitation specialist Stephen Nichols, MD and ongoing psychological support for Milan and her siblings as they continue to cope with the accident's life-changing impact on their family.
The Journey Home
The medical complexity of injuries like Milan's require coordination among experts across MWPH to help with everything from day-to-day care and interdisciplinary rehabilitation to insurance authorizations and practical details like setting Milan's home up for her return and training her parents to care for her after she leaves the hospital. "MWPH connected us with a lot of resources to help with Milan's care, including home health services, supplies, and a customized battery-assisted wheelchair," said Milan's father, Marc Cahill.
For example, the family was touched when MWPH gave the family presents and wrapping paper to help the family's children have a sense of normalcy at Christmas. "I can't thank them enough," Alexandria said.
The Cahill family now shares their experiences with others, to help families facing a life-changing injury or diagnosis calm their fears. Their best advice is to keep an open mind. "It's okay to be overwhelmed," Marc Cahill noted. "Just ask questions and work with the staff – they are a great resource for you, and they know what your child needs."