Miami Valley Hospital to Honor Trauma Survivors During Special Celebration

October 3, 2025

Miami Valley Hospital’s Level I Trauma Center will host its annual Trauma Survivors Celebration on Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, at 6 p.m. at the Marriott at the University of Dayton, 1414 S. Patterson Blvd.

This powerful event honors patients who have overcome life-threatening injuries with the help of Miami Valley Hospital’s trauma and rehabilitation teams, as well as first responders. Four survivors will be recognized this year for overcoming tremendous odds on their journey to recovery:

The 2025 Honorees:

Crystal Ayers – In July 2024, Crystal was struck and run over by a pickup truck while out for a summer run with a friend. Thanks to her friend’s quick actions, the Piqua Fire Department, and CareFlight Air & Mobile, Crystal was rapidly transported to Miami Valley Hospital, where trauma surgeon Dr. Gregory Semon and the trauma team provided life-saving care.

Brooke Bergman – On Sept. 18, 2024, Brooke was driving home from school when her car was t-boned by a semi-truck. Bystanders and Versailles Fire & EMS rushed to her aid, and CareFlight Air & Mobile transported her to Miami Valley Hospital, where she was treated by Dr. Yee Wong and the trauma team.

Taren Kinnel – After completing military training, Taren purchased and started restoring a motorcycle. In August 2024, Taren was critically injured in a crash. Troy Fire Department called CareFlight Air & Mobile, and he was flown to Miami Valley Hospital, where he spent 52 days under the care of Dr. Mbaga Walusimbi and the trauma team.

Derrick Selhorst – On June 11, 2024, Derrick was transporting hogs to Louisville, Ky., when his semi-truck crashed. He was found outside his vehicle and unable to move. Clayton, Englewood, and Union Fire & EMS transported him to Miami Valley Hospital, where Dr. Cathline Layba and the trauma team cared for him during a 20-day hospital stay.

Event Program Highlights:

From 5:30 to 6 p.m., the honorees and their families will reunite with their trauma surgeons, nurses, rehabilitation therapists, and the first responders who played vital roles in their survival. For many, this will be the first opportunity to reconnect outside the hospital setting.

At 6 p.m., a recognition program will feature video presentations sharing each honoree’s story of resilience and recovery.