Karen’s Story: When Everything Went Wrong, Care Went Right 

After weeks of being snowed in at their Hedgesville home, Karen Hodell decided it was time for a little fun. She had recently purchased a brand-new snow tube for her grandchildren, but on that winter day, she decided to give it a try herself. 

“I just wanted five minutes of fun,” she said. 

Her husband, Chuck, stood at the bottom of their hill, phone in hand, ready to capture the moment. But the instant Karen sat in the tube; things took a turn.  

She hit ice and quickly lost control. What followed was a terrifying descent. She struck a boulder, was launched into the air, and then ricocheted between several trees. 

Karen was rushed to WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center for treatment. She had sustained significant injuries including five fractured vertebrae, four fractured ribs, and a fractured scapula.  

“It was a rough few days,” Karen said. “But from the doctors and surgeons to every nurse, tech and even housekeeping and food services, everyone showed up with kindness, compassion and a smile.” 

Despite the seriousness of her injuries, Karen and her care team found moments to keep spirits high. Staff members joked with her as she watched Olympic downhill skiing in the middle of the night, reminding her she was “disqualified” from competing. Even in pain, those moments of levity mattered. 

“There wasn’t a single moment where I felt like someone dropped the ball,” she said. “Every person went above and beyond.” 

After discharge, Karen made a smooth recovery with support from WVU Medicine’s home health team. She quickly regained her independence and needed only minimal therapy. 

“When we chose to retire here, access to good medical care was a big concern,” Karen said. “What we’ve found is that we have it, and then some.” 

Gratitude and a lasting impact 

Looking back, Karen and Chuck say their experience exceeded every expectation. 

“We’ve been to many top hospitals over the years,” Karen said. “But we have never experienced this level of consistent, compassionate care. From start to finish, everything was phenomenal.” 

Grateful for the care she received, the couple looked for ways to give back. They began by sponsoring monthly lunches for the medical-surgical unit staff, a small gesture of appreciation for the team that made such a difference. Then, when they learned the unit had long hoped for a blanket warmer, they didn’t hesitate. 

“In the middle of February, I would have loved a warm blanket,” Karen said. “So, when we heard they needed one, it just felt right.” 

Their generosity resonated with the entire medical-surgical team, and benefits anyone seeking care at WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center.  

“On behalf of our entire medical-surgical team, we are so grateful to Karen and Chuck for their generous gift,” said Holly Harper, nurse manager, WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center.  “A warm blanket offers more than physical comfort; it helps our patients feel cared for, relaxed, and supported during their hospital stay. This thoughtful donation will enhance the care experience for so many, and we deeply appreciate their generosity and commitment to our patients.” 

Chuck also became a volunteer at the hospital, donating his time to support care teams and patients. 

“I just wanted to find another way to say thank you and be part of something that meant so much to us,” Chuck said. “I am honored to spend my time supporting a care team that has supported us in so many ways.”   

Our patients express gratitude in many ways. Learn how you can give back to the WVU Hospitals East Foundation. Donate: WVU Medicine Hospitals East Foundation