Maria Sanfeliu’s life was irrevocably altered on a fateful night in 2012. As a young woman on the cusp of her graduation from Syracuse University, a car accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that would test her strength, resilience, and determination to an extent she could never have imagined. A TBI can stem from a jolt to the head or body or from an object that pierces the brain, demanding urgent medical intervention.
Whisked away to the Upstate University Hospital in close proximity, Maria underwent immediate surgeries to control the brain bleeding. Dual surgeries, coma, and a month of hospitalization later, her body bore testament to the enormity of her injuries – from a feeding tube to a breathing apparatus. Maria’s road to recovery was pockmarked with challenges, including seizures triggered by her trauma.
Emerging from her coma, Maria was relocated to the Sunnyview Rehabilitation Center in New York, and later to her aunt and uncle’s home in New Jersey. Here she awaited the medical preparations for the final surgery that would replace the sections of her skull that had been previously removed.
Five months post-accident, after this successful surgery, her memory started sharpening. It marked the true beginning of her rehabilitation.
However, no one could truly comprehend the depth of her pain, the sheer exhaustion she felt, or the intense desire to regain her old self. Amidst the myriad of therapy sessions, she turned to her most cherished hobby – writing.
Thus, “Unstoppable María” was born, a blog that began as a personal endeavor to chronicle her journey and grapple with her fractured memory. Much to Maria’s astonishment,
it resonated with many, connecting her to others who had endured brain injuries. Her platform expanded, addressing a range of topics – from personal milestones, world events, to her diligent medical check-ups.
As the years rolled on, Maria consistently utilized her blog to enlighten her readers about Traumatic Brain Injuries and Epilepsy, sharing valuable news and scientific articles. By branching out to various social media platforms, she aimed to reach a broader audience, ensuring her message of hope and resilience reverberated far and wide.
Five months post-accident, after this successful surgery, her memory started sharpening. It marked the true beginning of her rehabilitation journey.
Maria’s path to recovery was arduous. Tasks once taken for granted – walking, speaking, feeding herself – had to be painstakingly relearned. Through this trying period, her family and close friends formed a bulwark of support, lifting her spirits and urging her forward.
A decade since her accident, Maria Sanfeliu’s indomitable spirit remains unwavering. Through “Unstoppable María,” she aims to inspire, support, and stand in solidarity with others facing similar adversities. Her story is not just about surviving, but thriving against all odds. It’s a testament to human resilience, the power of community, and the strength that can be found within adversity.
