Live Beyond: A Celebration of Trauma Survivors

Presented by University Medical Center, Inc.’s Medical Executive Committee

UofL Health – UofL Hospital – J. David Richardson Trauma Center is the region’s only Level I trauma center, providing lifesaving care when it matters most. As a member of the American Trauma Society’s Trauma Survivors Network, the Trauma Center also supports patients and families throughout the long journey of recovery after serious injury.

Each year, in recognition of National Trauma Survivors Day (the third Wednesday in May), the Trauma Center hosts Live Beyond Trauma – an annual event dedicated to honoring survivors, celebrating resilience, and recognizing the community that surrounds them with care.

Art, Healing, and Resilience

This year’s event highlights survivors who participated in a guided art therapy experience, creating three‑dimensional floral bouquets that express their identities, strength, and paths toward healing. Using the symbolism and language of flowers, each piece reflects personal meaning, memory, and hope.

The bouquets are displayed alongside origami butterflies created by survivors’ loved ones, community members, and UofL Health staff. Symbolizing transformation, the butterflies represent the powerful impact of compassion and collective support – reminding us that healing is strengthened by community.

Why It Matters

Live Beyond Trauma is more than an event – it’s a celebration of survival, a space for healing through expression, and a testament to the life‑changing role of trauma care and support. Proceeds of this event will go toward support services for trauma survivors. Can’t attend but want to help patients recovery? Give now.

Tickets

For tickets, go to bidpal.net/livebeyond26. 

–Free for Survivors and Family Members (Email us for promo code)
–Employee $10 (Email us for promo code)
–General Public $25

See a video about last year’s event: