A Nebraska outdoors influencer experienced a remarkable twist of fate during a near-fatal car accident when her unborn child played a crucial role in her survival.

According to Daily Mail, Kate Via, a 23-year-old TikTok personality with over 130,000 followers, survived a devastating collision with a tow truck on November 21, 2024, thanks to her pregnancy hormones and her unborn baby's stem cells.

Medical professionals discovered that Via's elevated blood pressure from being pregnant, combined with her baby's stem cells, significantly contributed to her survival after the accident. The young mother-to-be was 20 weeks pregnant when the crash occurred while she was driving to satisfy a pregnancy craving for an Orange Julius drink.

Severe injuries lead to intensive medical care

Via's injuries were extensive and life-threatening, requiring immediate medical intervention. Paramedics intubated her at the crash site before rushing her to Bergan Mercy Hospital. The medical team diagnosed her with four brain bleeds, damage to her carotid arteries, and multiple bone fractures.

The situation was so dire that Via's mother, Chryssi Zeleny, had a heart-wrenching conversation with the neurosurgeon about her daughter's chances of survival. Medical professionals placed Via in a medically induced coma, where she remained until February 2025.

During this critical period, Via's family maintained a constant vigil at her bedside. Her husband Josh, whom she married in April 2024, along with her parents, provided unwavering support throughout her hospitalization.

Baby Isaac's miraculous influence on recovery

Via's medical team made a groundbreaking discovery regarding her survival chances. The presence of her unborn child created unique physiological conditions that aided her recovery. These conditions included increased blood pressure from pregnancy and beneficial stem cells from the baby.

When doctors reduced Via's sedation levels to assess her brain activity, her maternal instincts immediately surfaced. Her first words upon regaining consciousness were "baby" followed by "mom," demonstrating her primary concern for her unborn child's wellbeing.

The recovery process proved challenging, with Via initially struggling with basic movements and functions. However, her determination to protect her unborn child drove her to push through the difficult rehabilitation process.

Rehabilitation journey shows remarkable progress

Via's rehabilitation at Madonna Rehabilitation facility focused on relearning essential life skills. Physical therapist Kailyn Wiseman noted Via's exceptional response to therapy, with daily improvements showcasing her dedication to recovery.

The facility incorporated Via's passion for fishing into her therapy routines, helping her reconnect with muscle memory and previous abilities. This personalized approach proved beneficial in her overall recovery process.

Therapists also prepared Via for the challenges of motherhood while continuing her rehabilitation. The comprehensive treatment plan addressed both her immediate recovery needs and future parenting responsibilities.

Mother and child overcome medical challenges

After transitioning to outpatient therapy, Via faced another crucial medical decision. Doctors recommended early delivery due to complications, leading to Isaac's birth two days ahead of schedule on March 24, 2025.

Via's medical journey continues with an upcoming complex surgery to address an abnormal connection between her arteries and veins within her cavernous sinus. Despite these ongoing challenges, she maintains her fighting spirit.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Via's extended recovery process, having raised over $9,550 to assist with medical expenses. The campaign acknowledges that her path to full independence may take months or years.

Why this story matters

This story serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the incredible strength of the human spirit. It underscores the importance of community, family support, and medical expertise in overcoming life's most daunting challenges. Furthermore, it highlights the profound bond between a mother and her unborn child, proving that sometimes, the will to fight through adversity comes from the most unexpected sources.

Life-changing accident leads to extraordinary outcome

Kate Via's journey from a near-fatal car crash to motherhood exemplifies an extraordinary tale of survival. The 23-year-old outdoors influencer's life changed dramatically after colliding with a tow truck while satisfying a pregnancy craving in November 2024.

The remarkable aspect of Via's survival stems from her pregnancy itself, as medical professionals confirmed that her unborn son Isaac contributed to her recovery through elevated blood pressure and stem cells. Despite severe injuries including brain bleeds and multiple fractures, Via successfully delivered her healthy baby while continuing her own challenging recovery process.