Former trauma patients recognized for resilience at St. Charles Bend

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- St. Charles Health System's Trauma Program honored former trauma patients Wednesday at St. Charles Bend, an event that featured a special presentation by 17-year-old Paige Wood. Wood spoke about her recovery following a traumatic car crash last summer, which occurred after she fell asleep while driving.

Wood aims to spread the message that it is important to avoid driving while tired.

According to her mother, Heidi, speaking about the crash, her recovery and the process of adjusting to her new reality is healing for Wood. Heidi noted that Paige is focused on sharing the important message to avoid driving while fatigued.

The recognition event at St. Charles Bend included a visit from therapy dogs, a resource fair and a free lunch. Attendees also had the opportunity to connect with St. Charles caregivers, first responders and fellow medical trauma survivors.

St. Charles Trauma and Emergency Services provided care for more than 2,700 traumatically injured patients in 2025. This number is nearly three times the amount of patients the department cared for a decade ago.

Falls are the most common cause of injury treated by the service. Other frequent causes of trauma include motor vehicle crashes, ATV/snowmobile/dirt bike crashes, motorcycle crashes and bike crashes.