Warm Springs Press Releases

WARM SPRINGS CEO RECEIVES VARIOUS HEALTHCARE AWARDS
Warm Springs Patient Recognized for Courageous Recovery

He is known as the Good Samaritan to most, but a Hero to his family and friends.  Robert Rivera’s story is one of courage and determination.  One fateful morning, on his 31st birthday, as Robert was driving to work he witnessed a serious car accident.  As he stopped to render aid he became the fourth victim of this devastating accident that would have life-changing effects on all involved.

The next nine days were a blur for Rivera, but his family and friends held a constant vigil hoping to be there when he awoke.  So many things were uncertain but one thing was certain, his family and friends would not leave his side.

As Robert awoke from a drug induced coma, he realized that he had been hit by a vehicle.  Due to the severity of his injuries both of his legs had to be amputated.  In an instant life had changed forever for this young husband and father of two, but nothing would change his determination to be there for his family.  “He was very focused and wanted to get back to providing for his family,” said Lupe Inclan, Warm Springs rehabilitation technician.  “Despite the tragic outcome of his good deed, he does not regret helping someone in need.”

Day after day Rivera gave 100% to his therapy regimen that included physical and occupational therapy. “Warm Springs not only focused on my physical needs, they also gave me emotional support to overcome this difficult time.”  

“I may be a Good Samaritan, but I am not a hero; I was just doing my duty as a citizen,” said Rivera.  On January 25, 2006, Rivera will be recognized by Warm Springs for his courage, dedication and determination to recover.

“Robert showed the same courage in his rehabilitation that he showed when he risked his life to help others in need. He focused on getting well so that he could return home to his wife and 2 children,” said Linda Simpson, administrator of the Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital.  “No one can ever repay Robert for helping his fellow man. We can however, recognize him as the kind of person we can all learn from and admire.”

Today, Robert enjoys his time with his boys and looks forward to getting “new” legs – prostheses seem to be in his near future.  He is also glad to be back home and back to living his life.