Terre Haute Teen Leaves Riley After 513 Days

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. — A Terre Haute teen seriously injured in a car crash is finally going home after spending over 500 days being treated at Riley Hospital for Children.

Her family was hit head-on by an impaired driver while they were looking at Christmas lights.

Southard went through nearly 30 surgeries during the 513 days she spent at Riley. The doctors said she beat the odds.

“All the grace goes to her,” said Riley Children’s Health hospitalist Dr. Hank Knouse. “She’s a rock star. To be as mentally tough as she is every day is impressive. She’s probably one of the most resilient people I’ve ever met, especially at her age.

Hospital staff lined the hallway this week to bid her farewell and praise her mental toughness in what has been a long recovery.

“It’s been so impressive watching her and her family go through the ups and downs but never give up … after what can be a life-ending injury,” Dr. Knouse added.

The Southard family says their faith has helped them through this journey and they’re grateful for the support they’ve seen from the community.