Brain AVM Survivor Jennifer Nguy’s Inspiring Story of Hope

Jennifer Nguy recalls being in Tallahassee in 2000, amidst the buzz of the contested presidential election. She had spent the day campaigning outside of the Florida State Capitol when she began to feel a headache unlike anything she had experienced before.

At 21 years old, she didn’t consider that it could be anything serious. “It was so bad, I kept popping medicine, but nothing worked.” What she didn’t know was that an artery and vein in her brain had grown intertwined, creating a life-threatening medical event called an arteriovenous malformation (AVM).

At home, Jennifer collapsed and fell unconscious. Thankfully, her boyfriend at the time, acted quickly and performed CPR until emergency responders arrived. Jennifer was resuscitated twice that evening before being rushed to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, where she was placed into a medically induced coma to save her life.

The Aftermath

Following immediate life-saving surgery, Jennifer was transferred to Gainesville, Florida, to begin rehabilitation. These months were crucial, as they focused on helping her regain her physical and cognitive abilities after the trauma her brain and body endured.

“I don’t remember much about those first few months, but I do know it was about taking one step at a time, literally,” she explains.

After three months, Jennifer moved back to Tallahassee, where she continued outpatient therapy. Jennifer made remarkable progress over the years. After her accident, she lost her ability to speak, walk and eat independently. With time, patience, and an unshakable spirit, she began relearning how to talk and took her first steps toward walking again.

Continuing to Move Forward

Years later, Jennifer set her sights on a new goal. She decided to finish her bachelor’s degree, despite requiring a wheelchair and only being able to walk short distances. Knowing that accessibility would be essential, she sought out a campus that supported her needs. Her search led her to the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.

While attending college, Jennifer explored ways to engage with her community. That’s when she discovered the Brooks Rehabilitation Challenge Mile. She decided to join the event with her grandmother, intrigued by the opportunity.

“Prior to attending the Challenge Mile, I had never heard of Brooks,” Jennifer shared. “It was interesting because as I was relearning to walk, my grandmother was transitioning to a wheelchair. I thought to myself, we could take turns pushing each other in the wheelchair.”

That single event opened the door to a new chapter in Jennifer’s recovery. After the Challenge Mile and learning more about Brooks Rehabilitation, Jennifer began therapy at our Neuro Recovery Center (NRC). There, she used state-of-the-art equipment like ZeroG for gait training and electrical stimulation technology to strengthen her body.

“The technology at the NRC was incredible,” Jennifer shared. “Every session made me feel stronger, and that progress reignited my determination to reach my goal of walking again.”

Jennifer’s hard work and determination paid off in a moment that she mentioned she’ll never forget. She achieved her biggest goal when she walked unassisted across the stage at graduation, a powerful testament to her resilience and strength.

As time went on, one of her therapists at the NRC mentioned that Jennifer would be a good candidate for Brooks’ Brain Injury Clubhouse. What seemed like a simple recommendation would soon become a life-changing opportunity.

Rediscovering Purpose Through Community

The Brain Injury Clubhouse is a full-time program that offers a range of activities designed to help the ongoing recovery process for individuals who have experienced a brain injury. The goal of the program is to help individuals regain social, physical, cognitive and vocational abilities.

Since joining the Clubhouse, Jennifer’s life has blossomed. She enjoys the sense of structure paired with the freedom to grow and thrive. Whether she’s preparing meals in the kitchen or participating in group activities, Jennifer has found a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.

“I’m here Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” she explained. “Spending time with this community, while still having the flexibility to handle my responsibilities, has been the perfect balance. For the first time in years, I finally feel like I’m truly living,” she says.

Life Beyond Rehabilitation

Today, Jennifer’s story is one of resilience and joy. In her free time, Jennifer has embraced what she affectionately calls her “Florida life.” Whether it’s walking the beach of Huguenot Park or gardening in her backyard, she has rediscovered peace in her daily routines.

“I’ve realized that being different doesn’t mean less,” Jennifer says with assurance. “My story proves that resilience and hope can pull you through anything.”