Gulf Coast Medical Center

LEE HEALTH | FORT MYERS, FL

Lee Health’s Gulf Coast Medical Center offers comprehensive trauma care to the communities of Southwest Florida. Lee Health’s comprehensive trauma services provide 24/7 critical care services from trauma-trained professionals. Once patients are stabilized, outreach services can provide additional support and improve outcomes for trauma patients and their caregivers. Patient and caregiver support provided by Trauma Services fosters emotional health and wellness. These services include resource linkage, support groups, peer mentors and ambassadors. Lee Health’s Trauma Center also provides resources to the community through Injury Prevention and Education. Programs include Falls Prevention (Step Smart), High Risk Driver, Sports Injury Prevention and Stop the Bleed. Lee Health’s wrap around services provides exceptional care to the community from injury prevention to recovery.

TRAUMA SURVIVOR NETWORK COORDINATOR

Carolyn Vickery, LCSW-QS, ACM-SW

[email protected]
239-343-1613
13685 Doctors Way, Suite 140, Fort Myers, FL 33912

Snack & Chat

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Support Groups

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Peer Mentors

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Trauma Ambassadors

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Resources

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NextSteps

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Community Events

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Snack & Chat

You are invited to connect with the Trauma Survivor Network team for a casual and supportive space. Our TSN Coordinator and peer mentors will be available to offer resources and guidance through the Trauma Survivors Network. This is for current trauma survivors and their family members that are admitted to the hospital.

This occurs every Tuesday from 3:00pm-4:00pm and every Thursday from 2:00pm-3:00pm in the Trauma ICU/Stepdown Family Waiting Room.

Complimentary snacks and water will be provided.

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Support Groups

Click the links below to learn more about each of our support groups.

Trauma Survivors

Join us for a comforting and understanding space for those navigating life after a traumatic injury. We recognize that adjusting can be challenging, and our group offers a safe environment to share your experiences and find fellowship with others.

This support group is designed for individuals that have experienced a traumatic event such as a motor vehicle crash. If you have questions regarding eligibility for this support group please reach out to Carolyn Vickery at [email protected].

Come connect with others who understand your journey. We look forward to supporting you!

This group meets in person from 6:00pm-7:30pm on the first Wednesday of each month.

Please register here.

Brain Injury Recovery Warriors of Southwest Florida

Join us for a supportive gathering designed for young adults navigating life after a brain injury. We understand the challenges and changes that come with recovery, and our group offers comfort, understanding, and community.

This is a safe space to share experiences and connect with others in similar situations as you navigate recovery and young adulthood in SWFL. This group is for survivors ages 18-35 and for individuals that have acquired a traumatic brain injury through a traumatic event such as a motor vehicle crash. If you have any questions regarding eligibility please reach out to Carolyn Vickery at [email protected].

This group meets in person from 6:00pm-7:30pm on the second Wednesday of each month.

Please register here.

Caregivers

Join us for a supportive space specifically for caregivers of individuals who have experienced a traumatic accident (for example a motor vehicle crash). Share your experiences, find comfort, and connect with others who understand the unique challenges you face. If you have any questions regarding eligibility for this support group please reach out to Carolyn Vickery at [email protected].

We look forward to fostering a community of understanding and support.

This group meets in person from 6:00pm-7:30pm on the third Wednesday of each month.

Please register here.

TBI Survivors Empowerment Group

Join us to connect with others who understand your journey and find support in a compassionate environment. This group is for any individual with a traumatic brain injury whose traumatic brain injury was acquired through a traumatic event, for example a motor vehicle crash. If you have any questions regarding eligibility for this group please reach out to Carolyn Vickery at [email protected].

Whether you are seeking understanding or simply a space to share, you are not alone. We look forward to welcoming you. 

This group meets in person on the fourth Wednesday of the month, with the exception of November and December, from 6:00pm-7:30pm.

Please register here.

TSN National Support Groups

Survivor Support Group

The Trauma Survivors Network offers a virtual support group twice a month using Zoom for trauma survivors of physical injury. You can join by using your computer, tablet, or phone.  To register for an upcoming virtual support group, click this link.

These support groups meet virtually on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month, with the exception of November and December.

Family and Caregiver Support Group

The Trauma Survivors Network offers a virtual support group once a month using Zoom for family, friends, and caregivers of trauma survivors of physical injury. You can join by using your computer, tablet, or phone.  To register for an upcoming virtual support group, click this link.

This support group meets virtually on the first Wednesday of each month at 1:00pm eastern time.

Monthly Grief Support Group

Join us for a supportive hour dedicated to those navigating grief. This monthly gathering provides a compassionate space for sharing, listening, and healing together.

This group meets once a month at both Lee Health’s Coconut Point Healthy Life Center and at Cape Coral Hospital.

Call 239-468-0050 to register and get more information on dates, times, and location.

Amputee Support Group

Join us and connect with others who have had similar experiences and challenges.

Anyone who has been affected by an amputation can join this support group.

These meetings are held both in person and virtually. Address for in person attendees is Encompass Health Cape Coral, 1730 NE Pine Island Road, Cape Coral, Florida 33909. These meetings occur every third Tuesday at 4:00pm.

If you have any questions or need the virtual link, please contact: [email protected].

Peer Mentorship

Peer mentors have the unique ability to understand what another survivor may have been through. They provide encouragement, guidance, and sometimes advice to other survivors. 

If you would like to be connected with a peer mentor, or are interested in being a peer mentor, please contact the Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator, Carolyn Vickery, at [email protected].

Nichole

At 29 years old Nichole became a patient of Gulf Coast Hospital where she resided in the Gulf Coast Trauma Center for about two months in 2024. She survived a boating accident that resulted in a very rare hemi-pelvectomy amputation- the removal of her left leg and part of her pelvis. Overwhelmed by the support she received from not only family and friends, but the Gulf Coast Trauma team, Nichole has chosen to give back by guiding new patients through their own trauma and healing process.

Nichole lives in Pine Island, Florida and loves boating, fishing, kayaking, shallow water diving, and all things nature. She hopes to inspire others by continuing to do the things she loves and push the boundaries of her amputation. One of her biggest upcoming goals is to continue her love for extreme sports and become the first hemi-pelvectomy to snowboard.
 
Originally from Indiana and a graduate from Purdue University, Nichole moved to Florida as a Sales Director for assisted living and memory care communities. Her work experience provides a familiar understanding of the hospital and rehabilitation process and helps guide families to the proper resources to give comfort through their transition from the trauma team to the next steps. She hopes to share her experiences and offer reassurance to those just starting their journey, helping them find strength, happiness, and success in recovery.

Joe

Joe is a 62-year-old former trauma patient who is currently a Lee Health volunteer who visits amputees. He is a Patient Mentor and a Certified Peer Visitor with the Amputee Coalition (non-profit). He is trained to educate, support, and empower people in our community who have experienced limb loss or will in the future. He is currently employed full-time by AECOM, an international Construction Engineering and Inspection firm, and is close to retirement having been in this field since 1981.

Joe also serves as 2nd Lt USAF Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol, Charlotte County Squadron, Florida Wing.
Joe’s own experience with trauma began with a skydiving accident in November of 2016. He broke his back at T-12, various bones, and the left foot. For 6 months, Joe tried to save his leg. He was non-load bearing on the left leg, had a PICC line for Vancomycin, wound vacs, atrophy, RSD syndrome and more.

During a second opinion visit with Dr. Casola, DO Lee Health, Joe asked if he could ever run again with the left leg and the doctor said flatly “no”, however, if he had the amputation perhaps, he could. Surgery was scheduled right away in mid-May 2017 and the rest is history. Joe ran a 45-minute 5k Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving the same year and hasn’t stopped since. It’s this wide range of personal experience, which helps him understand and empathize with patient’s concerns, fears, and uncertainty.

He brings hope and encouragement to the patients he visits. Not only does Joe find sharing his story with others rewarding, but it has also helped him throughout his own healing journey.

Joe returned to his passion of skydiving and flying wingsuits exactly one year after his accident. He resumed all his previous activities of scuba diving, bicycling, running, hiking, motorcycling, and flying.

His advice… set goals, plan, execute and achieve them. It’s going to be hard, know that. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. You’ll never know unless you go, unless you try…so try.

It’s no longer about what you can’t do, it’s about what you can do.
~~life is good~~ ~~live life~~

Linda

I have been a left above-knee amputee (LAKA) since June 2018. In 2019, I became a Lee Trauma Mentor to help new amputees navigate life after amputation. The guidance and support I received from my own mentor were invaluable, and I strive to offer the same to others on their journey.

Dennis

I served in the US Navy in the Anti-Submarine Warfare realm from 1973-1977. After my service, I became a YMCA certified SCUBA Instructor and SCUBA ACCIDENT MANAGEMENT Instructor in Key West  and also lived and taught SCUBA in the Caribbean for several years in Antigua and Barbuda, West Indies. Next, I managed a bread and breakfast in Key West and became an AFAA Certified Fitness Instructor. Moved to Ft Myers in 1996, where my next triple role was Rehab Tech, Orthopedic Technician, and Fitness Instructor at Lee Health System. There,  I spent many hours working with patients, assisting the Physical Therapists and the nurses.  I was one of the last Orthotechs  (orthotechs applied casts, splints, and traction) in the Lee Health System. In 2020 , after retiring from the hospital, I was T-boned in an horrific motor vehicle accident, and nearly lost my life. I fought my way back with an awesome team of doctors, nurses, and therapists, and I am filled with joy and gratitude for all that were involved in my comeback!! And it is a pleasure being able to mentor fellow trauma survivors and support them in their own journey through the process. Being able to be heard is really important to many patients, and we are there to listen, and perhaps understand what they are experiencing, and to offer support and encouragement.

Laura

Laura is a 66-year-old former trauma patient of Gulf Coast Hospital who was hit by a drunk driver and survived a five-car accident. She is currently a volunteer with Lee Health Trauma. She has chosen to give back by guiding new patients through her own trauma experiences and healing process.
Laura lives in Cape Coral and is working on getting her life back to normal after being in and out of hospitals for 4 1/2 years. She hopes to inspire others by continuing to do the things she loves to do like kayaking, Zumba, spin, boating, and dining out. She is a people person and loves helping others and hopes to share her experiences to help others.

Steve

Steve is a 70 year old former trauma patient at Gulf Coast Medical Center. He and his wife moved from New Hampshire to Florida in late 2018 and he retired from his job as a regional sales manager in the gear manufacturing industry at the end of 2019. He was looking forward to enjoying many of the activities the warm Florida weather offered. Being an avid cyclist, he rode fifteen thousand miles in 2020 – 2023, often riding 60+ miles a day. He also loved playing pickleball and found it to be an excellent way to make friends in their new neighborhood.
 
Steve was riding his bicycle in November of 2023 when he was hit broadside by an SUV at a four way stop. He spent 11 days in the trauma center suffering from three broken bones in his neck, three burst discs in his neck, a broken and displaced wrist and a torn rotator cuff requiring reverse shoulder replacement surgery. He had a plate in his neck and another plate in the wrist. After an infection required the plate in the neck to be removed, he spent another 10 days at Lee Memorial Hospital followed by 63 straight days of antibiotic infusions and a total of six months in a cervical collar.
 
Steve goes to the gym most days and has recently been able to return to some low key games with friends. Progress has been slow and steady over time.
 
The doctors, nurses and other staff at GCMC were instrumental in Steve’s initial recovery and he credits them with putting him on the path to how far he has been able to come. While 100% return to normal activity is out of reach, he has come much farther than he ever anticipated. He feels compelled to give back in order to help others who may be suffering from similar trauma related difficulties.

Trauma Ambassadors

Our trauma ambassadors are a group of dedicated volunteers that round on patients and their families on the trauma stepdown and trauma PCU units. They provide support to patients and their families as they begin to navigate their recovery.

If you would like to meet with one of our trauma ambassadors while you are in the hospital please contact the Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator, Carolyn Vickery, at [email protected].

Bob

I obtained my BS degree in the biological sciences. During my senior year I concurrently enrolled in a Nuclear Medicine Technology program. Upon graduation and passing two national registries I was hired as a staff tech. After six months As a staff tech the Medical Director of the Nuclear Medicine offered me the position of Department Manager at a 500 bed teaching hospital where he was also the Medical Director of Nuclear Medicine.
 
 After nearly three years in the clinical setting I was offered a position in sales by a major international company. I Worked my way up the corporate ladder and held various managerial positions such as Regional Sales Manager, National Account Executive and Director of Sales in the area of diagnostic imaging.
 
In my spare time (ha ha!) I went through an EMT training and became a volunteer EMT. I eventually held the position Of EMS Brigade Chief with the local EMS squad. Upon leaving the corporate environment I did a two-year stint as A shift supervisor in Atlantic City, NJ. Call volume at that time averaged around 36,000 EMS calls annually.
 
As an EMT I personally responded to somewhere in the neighborhood of 7,000 + emergency 911 calls

Gary

After his military service, Gary went on to earn a BS degree and an MBA in Pharmaceutical Marketing. He then spent over 40 years in the pharmaceutical industry, ending his career in his own business.
 
He started his volunteering soon after he graduated from college. He was involved in the Jaycees, President of a Substance Abuse Council, and a volunteer EMT.
 
Soon after moving to Florida, with his wife and 3 children, he became a volunteer at the Gulf Coast Medical Center. Currently, he on the Lee Health Foundation Board, a member of the Lee Health Quality & Safety Council, Chair of the Patient and Family Advisory Council, President of the Gulf Coast Auxiliary, a member of the Florida Hospital Association Medication Communication Workgroup, and a Trauma Ambassador.

Pam

Pam has spent her entire career in the health care field. During her first 12  years in her career she served as an RN in Critical Care, ED/Trauma settings.

She continued her education receiving her Advanced Nurse Practice degree & began working in Private Practice for the next few years.   She completed her career caring for& treating  veterans for the next 26 years at Miami VA Hospital.

Frank

Frank earned his Bachelor of Science from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in 1996. He earned his Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Army–Fayetteville State University MSW Program in 2010. Frank has maintained his Board-Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work since 2013.

Frank has had a diverse career working in many clinical and administrative settings. He is very eager to support the community as a trauma ambassador.

Bob

I obtained my BS degree in the biological sciences. During my senior year I concurrently enrolled in a Nuclear Medicine Technology program. Upon graduation and passing two national registries I was hired as a staff tech. After six months As a staff tech the Medical Director of the Nuclear Medicine offered me the position of Department Manager at a 500 bed teaching hospital where he was also the Medical Director of Nuclear Medicine.
 
 After nearly three years in the clinical setting I was offered a position in sales by a major international company. I Worked my way up the corporate ladder and held various managerial positions such as Regional Sales Manager, National Account Executive and Director of Sales in the area of diagnostic imaging.
 
In my spare time (ha ha!) I went through an EMT training and became a volunteer EMT. I eventually held the position Of EMS Brigade Chief with the local EMS squad. Upon leaving the corporate environment I did a two-year stint as A shift supervisor in Atlantic City, NJ. Call volume at that time averaged around 36,000 EMS calls annually.
 
As an EMT I personally responded to somewhere in the neighborhood of 7,000 + emergency 911 calls

Gary

After his military service, Gary went on to earn a BS degree and an MBA in Pharmaceutical Marketing. He then spent over 40 years in the pharmaceutical industry, ending his career in his own business.
 
He started his volunteering soon after he graduated from college. He was involved in the Jaycees, President of a Substance Abuse Council, and a volunteer EMT.
 
Soon after moving to Florida, with his wife and 3 children, he became a volunteer at the Gulf Coast Medical Center. Currently, he on the Lee Health Foundation Board, a member of the Lee Health Quality & Safety Council, Chair of the Patient and Family Advisory Council, President of the Gulf Coast Auxiliary, a member of the Florida Hospital Association Medication Communication Workgroup, and a Trauma Ambassador.

Pam

Pam has spent her entire career in the health care field. During her first 12  years in her career she served as an RN in Critical Care, ED/Trauma settings.

She continued her education receiving her Advanced Nurse Practice degree & began working in Private Practice for the next few years.   She completed her career caring for& treating  veterans for the next 26 years at Miami VA Hospital.

Frank

Frank earned his Bachelor of Science from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in 1996. He earned his Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Army–Fayetteville State University MSW Program in 2010. Frank has maintained his Board-Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work since 2013.

Frank has had a diverse career working in many clinical and administrative settings. He is very eager to support the community as a trauma ambassador.

Resources

Community Resources

Brain Injury Support

Amputee Support

Spinal Cord Injury Support

Caregiver Support

Support for Individuals Affected by Violence

Mental Health Support

Hurricane Resources

Pediatric Resources

National Resource List

NextSteps

The NextSteps program is a free, 6-week self-management course that emphasizes the vital role you play in your own recovery. Grounded in the principles of self-management, the program incorporates proven techniques to boost your confidence and sense of empowerment. NextSteps equips you with the skills needed to take an active role in managing both your health and your life. Learn more here.

Community Events

Breakthrough T1D Walk | November 8, 2025 | 7:30am-1:30pm

Miromar Outlets | 10801 Corkscrew Rd Suite 305, , Estero, FL 33928

Lee Health is proud to support Breakthrough T1D to support people living with type 1 diabetes. Register here.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s | November 8, 2025 | 8:00am-10:00am

Florida Southwest State College | 13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33919

Lee Health is proud to support the Alzheimer’s Association in the fight to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Visit us at the pet booth! Register here.

ARCHway Institute – Connection in the Park | November 8, 2025 | 12:00pm-3:00pm

Cultural Park Theatre Company | 528 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral, FL 33990

Connection in the Park is designed to bring together individuals and families impacted by substance use, offering a supportive and vibrant atmosphere to connect and access valuable recovery resources.

Senior Blue Book- Your Final Arrangements | November 10, 2025 | 12:00pm-1:30pm

Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point | 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero, FL 34135

Losing a loved one can leave families with the difficult task of planning a funeral without clear guidance. This lecture discusses how pre-planning your funeral can ease that burden and ensure your final wishes are honored. LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED. Call 239-468-0050 to register.

Walking Club | November 11, 2025 | 8:00am-9:00am

WellWay – Cape Coral | 609 SE 13th Ct Cape Coral, FL 33990

Join our walking club every Tuesday morning to get some steps in while meeting new friends and building relationships. This fun group will use the Lee Health Cape Coral campus walking path. Go at your own pace, and we welcome all levels! Call 239-468-0050 to register.

Protecting Your Vision: What to Know About Aging and Diabetes | November 11, 2025 | 10:00am-11:00am

Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point | 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero, FL 34135

Join Snead Eye Group to learn about the most common age-related eye conditions and how to protect your eyesight as you grow older. This presentation will also highlight the important connection between diabetes and eye health in recognition of Diabetes Awareness Month. Call 239-468-0050 to register.

Age Related Macular Degeneration | November 11, 2025 | 1:00pm-2:00pm

WellWay – Cape Coral | 609 SE 13th Ct Cape Coral, FL 33990

Join Dr. Jessica Cameron to learn about age-related macular degeneration which is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. AMD can cause blurred or distorted central vision, making everyday activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces challenging. Call 239-468-0050 to register.

Blood Glucose Screenings | November 12, 2025 | 9:00am-12:00pm

Beacon of Hope | 5090 Doug Taylor Cir, Saint James City, FL 33956

Lee Health will be providing free blood glucose screenings at the Beacon of Hope Community Center.

Lee County Sheriff’s Program: Residential Safety | November 12, 2025 | 10:00am-11:00am

WellWay – Cape Coral | 609 SE 13th Ct Cape Coral, FL 33990

Residential Safety – How secure is your home? What about your valuables? You may be surprised. There are always strangers on our streets. From lighting and cameras to landscaping and locks, LCSO’s Chelsea Long will provide you with simple tips to make sure your home and property are safe from criminals. Call 239-468-0050 to register.

Free Flu Shots | November 12, 2025 | 11:00am-2:00pm

Gladiolus Food Pantry | 10511 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908

Lee Health Pharmacy and Community Health and Benefit have partnered to bring Free Flu Shots to our community. Protect yourself during this season!

Wellness Wednesdays Series | November 12, 2025 | 5:00pm-6:00pm

Urban Strategies, Inc | 4221 Romeo Lane #104, Fort Myers, FL 33916

Educational presentations and discussion group about numerous topics. The topic for this date is illness prevention and hand washing.

Caring for Caregivers Event | November 13, 2025 | 8:30am-12:00pm

Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point | 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero, FL 34135

Caregivers, this day is all about YOU! Join us for a special event designed to support and celebrate those who give so much. We’ll begin with relaxation through sound bowls and breathwork, followed by inspiring presentations from three engaging speakers. Enjoy music therapy, a delicious lunch, and time for your own renewal and connection. Don’t forget to visit our variety of vendors and the Brain Bus for valuable information and resources. Call 239-468-0050 to register.

Spotting Skin Changes: What’s Harmless and What’s Concerning | November 13, 2025 | 10:00am-11:00am

WellWay – Cape Coral | 609 SE 13th Ct Cape Coral, FL 33990

In this vital and eye-opening talk, Jenna Hartt, PA-C, will shed light on how some of the most dangerous skin changes, often linked to cancer, can go unnoticed in daily practice. As a skilled clinician with a sharp eye and deep experience in dermatologic care, Jenna will guide you through how to identify lesions that might seem harmless but are actually warning signs hiding in plain sight. Call 239-468-0050 to register.