Recovering from Disorders of Consciousness

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Recovering from Disorders of Consciousness follows the powerful true story of Hannah Strom, a young woman who survived a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spent weeks in a disorder of consciousness. Through her journey—and the experiences of patients, families, and clinicians—this video explores how consciousness can slowly return, why early prognoses are often uncertain, and how specialized inpatient rehabilitation can change outcomes after severe brain injury.

Featuring insights from leading neurologists and rehabilitation specialists at the Spaulding‑Harvard TBI Model System, this documentary examines the science of recovery, the risks of early withdrawal of care, and the long‑term impact of evidence‑based neurorehabilitation. It also highlights the critical gaps in access to inpatient rehab for people with disorders of consciousness.

Produced by the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC), this story is part of the Recovering from Disorders of Consciousness Hot Topic Module.

The content of this video is based on research and/or professional consensus. This content has been reviewed and approved by experts from the Traumatic Brain Injury Model System (TBIMS) centers, funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, as well as experts from the Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers (PRCs), with funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The content of the video has also been reviewed by individuals with TBI and/or their family members.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to replace the advice of a medical professional. You should consult your health care provider about specific medical concerns or treatment. The contents of this video were developed under a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR grant number 90DPKT0009). NIDILRR is a Center within the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents of this video do not necessarily represent the policy of NIDILRR, ACL, or HHS, and you should not assume endorsement by the federal government.

Copyright © 2026 Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC). May be reproduced and distributed freely with appropriate attribution. Prior permission must be obtained for inclusion in fee-based materials.

Photo Credit: Some photographs used in this video are sourced from Sippican Week and are included for informational and educational purposes. All images remain the property of their respective copyright holders: https://sippican.theweektoday.com/article/injured-rower-hannah-strom-returns-home-marion/48222.

Press Release: Check out this press release on the DoC video series at:

Press Release DoC_.pdf