At the young age of 16, Paige Kassner was comfortable taking center stage as a performer, a volunteer and as Miss Green Bay Area's Outstanding Teen. But on a Saturday morning in November, she found herself the focus of a story she didn’t want to star in. The opening scene was a two car accident, at an intersection just minutes from her house with Paige trapped in the car anxiously awaiting EMS to come save her.
Paige was conscious when EMS arrived at the scene. After being extracted from the vehicle, her vital signs began to decline and she was flown to Aurora BayCare Medical Center. Paige underwent four surgeries in four days to locate and stabilize internal bleeding and to repair multiple fractures in her leg, arm and pelvis. Her mother Carla explains how the team at Aurora BayCare made it manageable: “The doctors were very sensitive yet honest in keeping us informed and helping us understand her situation. Their honesty and expertise gave us the trust and confidence we needed, but it was their encouragement, and positive attitude that kept us hopeful.”
Like a theater cast, Paige’s care involved multiple EMS personel, a variety of doctors and staff throughout many different departments and specialties. “It was a joint effort across every level of care. You could sense everyone’s dedication and we could see the mutual respect and time that it required to successfully work as a team,” says Carla.
Because of Paige’s theater and dance background, her mom especially appreciated one doctor’s comment when he said, ‘Paige is the star of the show and we want to give her the best supporting cast.’ “These are the kind of people you want working with and caring for your child,” says Carla. “I wouldn't have wanted Paige to be anywhere else.”
After spending over a month in the hospital and inpatient rehab, Paige was able to return home on Christmas Eve. She continues with outpatient OT/PT and in February she had a role in her high school’s musical production.
Paige’s healing and recovery have progressed quicker than anyone anticipated. And while she continues to inspire others, her mom continues to express gratitude for the exceptional care she received. “From first responders, to rehabilitation, every person has played an important part – each person Paige encountered has had a role in saving her life.”