National Trauma Survivors Day
The third Wednesday in May is a little different than all the other days of the year. It’s the day we chose to recognize, honor, and celebrate injury survivors and all those who care for them. It’s a day filled with joy, tears, and connection.
Across the network and around the world, we are coming together to share the stories of survival. For some, it is a story of resilience and strength. For others, it is about rebuilding, finding support, and learning to move forward in a new way. Behind every story is not just one person, but a circle of family members, first responders, clinicians, therapists, caregivers, and community members who are joining them on the recovery journey. On National Trauma Survivors Day, we celebrate everyone who plays a role in recovery.
National Trauma Survivors Day is a reminder that survival isn’t a single moment; it’s a lifelong process of rebuilding identity, function, and meaning. Living with a spinal cord injury for more than 20 years has taught me that trauma doesn’t end at discharge. It continues to shape how we move through the world, relate to others, and understand ourselves.
This day matters because it brings visibility to that ongoing journey and honors the strength it takes to keep adapting long after the acute phase of care has passed. It also underscores the importance of connection, peer support, shared experience, and community, not as optional extras, but as essential parts of healing and recovery.
~Pete, Survivor, TSN Coordinator, and ATS board member
At the end of NST Day, I take with me, so much love & support! Capturing the beauty of Red Butte Gardens & MY people. Holding those gifts, the people & plants in my heart! I embrace those memories!
When I encounter roadblocks, challenges, problems and things that just interrupt my great life, I reflect on that amazing day. All the rest of the year, I covet in my mind, the treasures of NST Day.
As I continue my healing journey, I know my TSN angels have encouraged me to have healthy, positive goals & celebrate successes! I am inspired & motivated to take care of me! To make good things happen, find solutions & go after rewards.
TSN’s monthly meetings, as well as Survivors Day, encourages me to be intentional with my amazing future I have been gifted by God and my beautiful angels.
~Janis, Survivor and active TSN member
NTSD is a reminder that healing happens in community. From my time as a local TSN coordinator to now serving as Director of the national program, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many trauma survivors and families who, despite everything they’ve been through, continue to show up and support others. Their ability to turn pain into purpose is incredibly powerful.
It’s why I often say, “Grow through what you go through.” We are here for you, and we hope you will connect with TSN as you survive, connect, and rebuild after a physical injury.
~Katherine, National Trauma Survivors Network Director
