Bucknell University Student Recovers After Near-Fatal Car Crash
BALTIMORE, MD — A 20-year-old Bucknell University student, Owen Bell, is recovering following a serious car accident on July 28, 2024.
Bell lost control of his vehicle while traveling at 65 mph in a 40 mph zone, approximately one mile from home, resulting in a collision with a roadside fence post. The impact sent a fence post through his windshield, causing severe brain injuries.
Emergency responders airlifted Bell to the University of Maryland Medical Center, where he underwent extensive surgeries to treat skull and facial fractures. “They pretty much saved my life,” Bell stated regarding the medical team’s efforts.
Following the incident, Bell faced a challenging recovery process, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as he struggled with memory loss and cognitive challenges. “Some therapists would ask me what day it was; I couldn’t remember any of that,” he noted.
Despite the hurdles, Bell has made significant progress in his recovery and now aims to pursue a biology degree to become a physical therapist. “I recognized that I could be a biology major… and I really love that,” he said.
Experts emphasize the unique nature of brain injuries and the varying recovery timelines for each individual. Samantha Adams, President of the Brain Injury Association of Maryland, noted, “Individuals can continue to improve or deteriorate as time goes on.”
Bell is now raising awareness about brain injuries by speaking to teens and advocating for education on the long-term impacts of such injuries.