Nationwide — Hannah Smith, a 22-year-old African American woman from Tennessee who survived a devastating accident in the Bahamas, has said an emotional goodbye to the South Florida hospital where she made a remarkable recovery. She was surrounded by doctors, therapists, and family as she rang the ceremonial bell and exited Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Cutler Bay, marking a major milestone in her journey.
“It’s just a big win,” said Smith. “A couple of months ago, I couldn’t even imagine this moment after my accident. It’s a huge motivation to keep going.”
WSVN reports that Smith, a recent graduate of Miles College in Alabama, was vacationing in the Bahamas on May 12 to celebrate her graduation when a tragic boating accident changed her life. During an excursion, she was struck by a boat’s propellers, resulting in severe injuries to her legs.
“When we stopped at a port in the Bahamas, I went on an excursion and, unfortunately, the boat propellers kind of dismembered my legs,” she recalled. One leg was amputated while she was still in the Bahamas, and she was later airlifted to Miami, where she underwent multiple surgeries.
Through months of intensive rehabilitation, including three hours of daily physical therapy, Smith has fought her way back with determination and resilience. “I traded my legs for my life,” she said, adding that she remains grateful just to be alive.
Despite the trauma, Smith has faced every day with a smile, choosing positivity over despair. “It’s up to you if you’re going to be happy or sad or mad every day,” she said. “I choose joy.”
She credits her strength to her faith and her supportive family. “Besides God, definitely my parents. They’ve pulled me out of some really dark moments. I wouldn’t be this positive without them,” she said.
With her family cheering her on, Smith climbed into the front seat of their car, proud of how far she’s come. “I’m very proud of myself—being able to do my own hygiene, get around, and transfer. The next step is continuing outpatient therapy and preparing for my prosthetics.”
Her family has launched a GoFundMe page to help support her ongoing recovery as she continues to rebuild her life.