Carrie Linkhauer '24 Recruiting Profile

Hi my name is Carrie Linkhauer. I am currently a Senior at Red Land High School. I have been playing volleyball for almost six years now. During my senior year I am taking my prerequisites for nursing, being dual enrolled in Harrisburg Area Community College, as I want to pursue pediatric nursing. 

Some of my hobbies include snowboarding, playing indoor and outdoor volleyball with friends and teammates, and hanging out. I work very well with others, I'm collaborative, creative, kind, and compassionate. I enjoy being apart of a team not only for volleyball but also gaining experience through people I meet and the places I visit. 

On April 15, 2018 my life had changed forever. I was in an almost catastrophic motocross accident while I was warming up for a race. Being rushed to Pittsburgh Children's Hospital. Broken collar bone, fractured ribs, crushed pelvis, a severed femoral ball, and my femur protruding through the back of my left leg, crushing my left side; Those were only the physical injuries they could see at that time that required immediate attention.  After almost 8 hours of surgery, I spent a week of my life in the ICU in critical condition.  During that week I didn't shed a tear, until they showed me the wheelchair I was supposed to use until further notice. This was the ultimate feeling of defeat. After coming home I was supposed to be bedridden for at least a month. After only a few days I began pushing myself to test the limits. It began just wanting to be out of bed, to regaining all physical function without assistance or physical therapy. Though it was not easy,I chose not to give up. From this experience I draw strength. If there is one thing I know about myself it is, it is how to overcome obstacles, gain strength, motivating myself and those around me to do their best and reach for more. 

My motivation to work within Pediatric Trauma, started with an RN that I will never forget.  I want to impact others as one has done for me. I am much more than most will ever know. My accident being only a small part of what makes me, me.