Freedom House Survivor Stories Part 5

MICHAEL HANSON

In October 2002 Brian and Michael were involved in a horrible car wreck just two blocks from home as they were returning from a weekend with their father. While making a left turn, they were broadsided by a car that was involved in a street race and traveling at 120 miles per hour with its headlights off. Although theother driver applied his brakes, his speed at impact was approximately 80 miles per hour. Brian and his girlfriend Shanna, both 19, were killed instantly. Michael was severely injured, suffering two broken legs, afractured pelvis and a severe “closed head” injury with a diagnosis of “vegetative”.

The drivers of the racing cars were charged with 2nd degree murder and their trial was broadcast on Court TV. They were ultimately convicted of Vehicular Manslaughter and sentenced to 6 and 9 year prison sentences. As the result of outcry from citizens regarding deaths resulting from street racing, more rigid laws have been implemented both locally and at the state level.

Michael’s recovery over the past 4 ½ years has been nothing short of miraculous and he continues to improve in all areas. Debbie and Michael’s father, though divorced, quit working for the first year after the accident and spent full time with Michael’s recovery both at his bedside and participating in the various phases of his recovery. Michael attends physical therapy 3 to 4 times per week and works out at home.
He has returned to school where he is learning job skills and is back to playing his guitar and computer games. He is also learning cooking. His father has returned to work but since Michael requires a full-time caregiver, Debbie stays at home and has not been able to return to her regular profession.

Michael’s progress has been followed by the local media and he and Debbie have been interviewed many times. They have spoken about the dangers of street racing and the realities of long term recovery from severe injuries to local high schools, and the Rotary Club. They have also participated in Traffic Victim’s Remembrance Day and the Think First Accident and Injury Prevention Program at Sharp Memorial Hospital. They have participated in fund raising media events for Sharp Memorial Rehab Center, Race
Legal at Qualcom Stadium and the Challenge Center.

Debbie is hopeful that FREEDOM HOUSE will be successful in establishing a residence facility where Michael can continue to work toward independent living. She intends to re-enter the Nursing profession as soon as she is able and looks forward to working with FREEDOM HOUSE toward that end.