A Teen's Battle Back to Life: The Inspiring Story of Mary Sarah Hanna

On a seemingly ordinary Sunday, the life of 16-year-old Mary Sarah Hanna took an unexpected turn. As she and her family exercised at their local gym following a successful soccer season, Mary Sarah collapsed suddenly due to cardiac arrest. Thanks to immediate intervention by her mother, Karis Hanna, who performed CPR for over 20 minutes, and advanced medical care at Strong Memorial Hospital, Mary Sarah survived a harrowing ordeal that included a medically induced coma and treatment with cutting-edge cooling technology. Despite enduring severe brain injuries that initially left her unable to speak or walk, Mary Sarah’s indomitable spirit drove her remarkable recovery. Now equipped with a pacemaker, she has set her sights on a new chapter in her life as she prepares to study construction management at Appalachian State University.

It was just another routine day when tragedy struck. After completing a sprint session during a family workout, Mary Sarah fell unconscious mid-exercise. Her heart had stopped without warning, leaving her mother, Karis Hanna, to act swiftly under the guidance of a 911 operator. With ambulance delays due to difficulty locating the gym, Karis administered continuous chest compressions for an extended period, buying crucial time until paramedics arrived. Once stabilized, Mary Sarah was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital’s pediatric emergency department where doctors worked tirelessly to uncover the cause of her collapse.

Dr. Jake Deines from Strong’s pediatric intensive care unit explained the urgency of their actions: “After the cessation of oxygen-rich blood flow to the brain, each second is critical.” To aid her recovery, Mary Sarah was placed in a four-day medically induced coma. An innovative device known as "The Arctic Sun" played a pivotal role in her treatment. By lowering her body temperature to approximately 91 degrees Fahrenheit, this technique slowed metabolic processes and reduced swelling, providing essential protection for her brain tissue.

Upon regaining consciousness, it became evident that Mary Sarah faced significant challenges ahead. Doctors discovered an arrhythmia that caused ventricular fibrillation, leading to improper blood circulation through her heart. Consequently, she suffered a traumatic brain injury that impaired her ability to perform basic functions such as speaking and walking. Yet, fueled by determination, Mary Sarah embraced rehabilitation wholeheartedly. At Strong’s newly opened acute inpatient rehabilitation unit, she relearned fundamental skills, including running—a milestone achieved only months prior to sharing her story.

Mary Sarah’s journey exemplifies resilience and gratitude. Although prohibited from participating in sports, she remains optimistic about her future. Equipped with a pacemaker and inspired by her experiences, she eagerly anticipates starting college to pursue construction management. Her family expresses immense appreciation for the compassionate care provided by the staff at Golisano Children’s Hospital, particularly highlighting the dedication shown by nurse Kayla during Mary Sarah’s initial stay in a coma. This miraculous recovery underscores the transformative impact of modern medicine combined with unwavering human spirit.