Survivor Story: Steve Pfahning

On May 22, 2018, Steve Pfahning set out for what should have been an ordinary motorcycle ride near his home. Just a few miles in, everything changed in an instant. A deer ran directly into his motorcycle, causing a devastating crash that left Steve with catastrophic injuries, including a severe traumatic brain injury, ruptured spleen, collapsed lungs, and multiple fractures throughout his body.

The severity of Steve’s condition meant one thing: time was critical. He needed advanced, specialized care immediately. Ground transport would have taken too long. That’s when Life Link III was called.

The flight crew quickly transported Steve to Marshfield Medical Center, where a team of surgeons was waiting. He underwent emergency procedures, including the removal of his spleen and brain surgery to address the extensive damage caused by his injury. His family received devastating news, Steve was given only a 3% chance of survival, and even if he lived, doctors warned he might never regain consciousness.

But Steve’s story didn’t end there. Against overwhelming odds, he survived.

Steve firmly believes that the speed and care provided that day made all the difference.

“Life Link III saved precious time for urgent medical care,” he shared. “They are an integral part of my miracle.”

Recovery from a severe brain injury is long and unpredictable. Yet Steve made a powerful decision early in his journey.

“Although I have little or no control over my situation, I will always have 100% control of my attitude,” Steve said. “With my attitude, I promise myself that I will change my process of recovery into my process of discovery.”

That mindset carried him forward. Instead of focusing on what was lost, Steve focused on what was possible. Each step became a discovery, proof that he could accomplish more than anyone expected.

“My first discovery is that I can accomplish anything I try despite extremely severe brain injury,” he said. “Remember, the sky is the limit.”

Today, Steve is not only a survivor, he is an inspiration. He has rebuilt his life, found love, and continues to share his story to give others hope.

He has one message for the crew who flew him that day:

“Never doubt what you do. You are important.”

Steve now feels a responsibility to share his experience, believing his story can inspire others facing their own impossible odds. Because sometimes, survival is just the beginning. And sometimes, hope arrives from the sky.