A native of eastern North Carolina, Jadon Olsen and his family are no strangers to the effects of hurricane season. Hurricane Florence proved to be a turning point in the Olsen family’s lives. A good deed turned tragic when 17-year-old Jadon and his father – both eager to lend a helping hand by clearing the road of debris – were tragically struck by a fallen tree branch, leaving Jadon with a traumatic head injury. Rushed to Levine Children’s by a weighted emergency transport vehicle, not a moment too soon, Jadon’s injuries had caused bleeding in and around his brain that had to be addressed immediately. He underwent emergency surgery to reduce swelling of his brain and prevent further injury. After an extended stay in Levine Children’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, a miracle happened: within a week of being admitted to the PICU, Jadon was cleared to begin physical and occupational therapy at Carolinas Rehabilitation. Walking, talking, and regaining the use of his right hand, each step towards recovery has been monumental for Jadon. Today, Jadon is enjoying being back at home in Laurinburg, where he’s become a local hero celebrated by friends and strangers alike.
“During the most difficult and stressful time in our life as a family, Atrium Health has been there for us all, through every step of our son’s recovery.” – Jadon’s mother, Elaine Olsen
Read more about Jadon’s story on Atrium Health’s Daily Dose blog.