A student who has been described as the ‘unluckiest student’ due to being severely injured in two separate car crashes has turned her misfortunes around and is now working as a paramedic, saving lives. Kacey Jones had a harrowing experience in June 2021 when she was involved in a car accident in Nottingham that resulted in a broken back and a brain bleed during what she had anticipated to be a gap year filled with excitement. Following intensive spinal surgery and a three-month period of being bedridden, Kacey made a determined decision to pursue her Paramedic sciences degree at the University of East Anglia.
Kacey, who is 22 years old, commenced her studies in September 2021, merely two weeks after relearning to walk, contending with chronic back pain, and requiring frequent restroom visits. Fate dealt another blow to Kacey when she was involved in a second car crash in May 2024, despite escaping without physical injuries, the incident triggered psychological trauma, reminding her of the first horrific crash. Despite labeling herself as the ‘unluckiest student ever’, Kacey has now completed the full circle of her journey, achieving her dream of becoming a registered paramedic last month.
Recalling the first crash, which occurred just a week after passing her driving test, Kacey shared the terrifying experience of crashing into a pole and a tree, leaving her crushed by the car door, with injuries including a broken back, brain bleed, liver, bladder, and lung damage. After undergoing spinal surgery to fuse three vertebrae into one, Kacey’s unwavering determination to become a paramedic, a dream she held since the age of 14, motivated her through the physical and emotional challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Despite facing chronic back pain and the mental toll of her experiences, Kacey persisted with her studies, completing her degree in August 2024 and officially becoming a registered paramedic on August 29. Reflecting on her journey, Kacey emphasised her resilience, stating, “I wasn’t going to let something so awful prevent me from getting to where I want to be. It’s full circle now, I’ll be saving other people’s lives.” Kacey’s determination and strength have led her to pursue her passion for helping others, embodying the unwavering spirit of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.