Cedar Lake Motorcyclist in Critical Condition After Collision with Car
CEDAR LAKE, IN — A motorcycle accident left a 32-year-old man in critical condition on October 5. Vincent Kampstra’s motorcycle was struck by a car traveling at 40 mph, sending him headfirst onto the asphalt.
According to authorities, Kampstra sustained a severe traumatic brain injury, multiple brain bleeds, and a significant midline shift. He was airlifted to the University of Chicago Medicine’s Level 1 Adult Trauma Center for treatment.
Emergency responders confirmed that Kampstra, who suffers from hemophilia, faced additional complications requiring specialized surgical management. A neurocritical care team treated him immediately upon arrival, including neurosurgeons and rehabilitation specialists.
Dr. Ali Mansour, a neurologist at UChicago Medicine, emphasized the significance of their specialized care, noting high survival rates in neurotrauma cases. After undergoing brain surgery, Kampstra spent three days in a coma.
During recovery, Kampstra struggled with expressive aphasia due to brain injury but showed significant progress with the help of speech and occupational therapists. Dr. Tracey Fan, his attending physician, highlighted the importance of constant monitoring during this critical phase.
After spending two weeks in the hospital, Kampstra was transferred to a rehabilitation center where he regained his speech and mobility. UChicago Medicine recently established a Neurotrauma Recovery Clinic to assist patients with long-term effects of traumatic brain injuries.
Kampstra returned to work as a mason laborer three months post-accident. Despite experiencing seizures, he expressed profound gratitude to the medical team. “I trust them with my life,” he said.