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Success Stories

Brady Holt and His Story of Strength

On May 14, 2016, Brady Holt, a freshman football player at Utah State University, was driving back tocollege when involved in a major motor vehicle accident that resulted in life-threatening injuries. Brady suffered a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures, which required chest tubes, intubation and being placed on a ventilator. He was given only a 15% chance of survival. Brady was in and out of the ICU until early June. He had surgery to repair his back and was also diagnosed with pneumonia and meningitis. Brady continued to fight. Though there were setbacks, there were victories, too–from being able to open his eyes constantly to weaning off his ventilator and breathing on his own.

In mid-June, Brady was transferred to NeuroRestorative Utah and began his individualized therapy regimen. With the support of his dedicated team, he worked on getting his strength back in his arms, legs and trunk control. He was also learning to swallow and follow simple commands. As a result, Brady was making leaps and bounds. His breathing had improved, his memory started to return, and he began to recognize those close to him.

When asked about how far her son has come, Brady’s mother Christy replied, “This kid amazes me every day. Brady is not done in this world. He’s got a lot to prove and a lot still to give.”

Brady continued to reach milestones every day. He was able to stand for the first time with the help of the physical therapist and began taking steps with the help of the overhead track system. Over the next few weeks, he became more independent, from transferring without the Hoyer lift to maneuvering his wheelchair on his own. Brady was able to be de-cannulated in early October.

“I have rarely seen an individual so determined and hardworking. Despite severe injuries and neurologic deficits, he always had a positive and never-quit attitude. As therapists, we had to be constantly trying new things and staying a step ahead of him. It was very rewarding to see him regain skills, take that first step and say his first word. He certainly exceeded expectations,” said Julie Burnett, PT, MS.

Brady transitioned to an acute rehabilitation program, where he improved his gross and fine motor skills. After all of his hard work and the support of his care teams, it was then time for Brady to return to his home.

Today, Brady is enjoying all of the things he once did. He is going back to college, spending time outdoors, hiking, hunting and even coaching his brother in football. Brady got married in the fall of 2020 to his wife, Katie.

“Every step you take forward takes you one step closer to the finish,” said Brady.

   

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