At a time in their lives when most high school seniors are realizing a world of opportunities, Patty Phommmanyvong’s world came to a grinding halt. In October of 2007, at a varsity high school football game in Los Angeles, Patty suffered cardiac arrest during a cheerleading routine for a yet to be determined reason. Oxygen deprivation to her brain resulted in a traumatic brain injury and consequently, multiple systemic injuries. Patty now lives at home with her parents, Say and Vilay, and her younger sister, Katty.Patty’s journey since her injury has been arduous. The night of her injury, she was taken to the Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles where she remained in a coma and was placed on a ventilator. Although declared vegetative immediately by the medical staff, Patty began to rally from the coma and respond with eye-blinks to her family and friends within five days of her injury.
Patty was soon transferred to a small nursing home located 25 miles from her family’s home. The decision to release her was made quickly by the hospital staff and her family had no time to prepare specialized living arrangements for Patty. In February of 2008, Patty was then moved to a rehab facility in Pomona, and then again to another nursing home in La Puente where she remained until January of 2010. Patty’s family was finally able to coordinate her transfer back to their apartment on the outskirts of Chinatown in Los Angeles.
Patty’s parents are immigrants from the country of Laos, having escaped that country during its violent transition into communism in the 1970’s. Patty was born in Fresno, California and moved with her parents to the Los Angeles area in the mid 1990’s. Her father, Say, worked for years as a long-haul trucker, and her mother Vilay found work in the garment industry as a seamstress. They supported their family well and eventually saved enough funds to open a small garment factory in Chinatown. Recently, they closed that business due to the decline in the economy and to provide the constant care that Patty needs since her arrival home.
Patty was a popular girl in high school and a determined student. She made excellent grades in her courses and had hopes of going into pediatric medicine. She continues to exhibit her determination in her recovery, and to make progress despite all the extreme circumstances she has endured.
Through her determination, patience, and courage, Patty is a remarkable testament to the power of the human spirit to all who know her. With the loving support and care of her family, once again there is hope for Patty’s future.
