Amanda Travis: A Fierce Fight for Recovery and a Return to Greenville University
Published: December 06, 2024
Author: Liz Dowell
Amanda Travis, a senior mathematics major at Greenville University, faced a life-altering reality when a devastating car accident left her with life-threatening injuries. Surviving the accident was only the beginning of her journey; her fight continued through hospital rooms, operating tables, and rehabilitation facilities as she endured multiple surgeries and a grueling recovery process.
The accident left her spine and nerves in her left leg severely damaged, requiring a brace and resulting in fuzzy pain and a limp. Yet, Amanda remained determined to survive, reclaim her independence, and return to the life she loved at GU.
OVERCOMING RELENTLESS MEDICAL HURDLES
Following weeks in critical care, Amanda had to confront a fractured vertebra and a severe infection in her spine. Each surgery added metal rods and fusions to her injured spine, and while high-dose pain medications were part of her daily routine, they could not numb her fierce resolve to heal.
Physical and occupational therapy sessions tested her endurance, but Amanda pressed on. “I had to learn to walk again. It wasn’t easy, but I wasn’t going to give up,” she recalls.
SETTING AMBITIOUS GOAL TO RECLAIM HER INDEPENDENCE
Amanda's determination to regain her life extended beyond bare recovery; she set ambitious goals, challenging herself daily. Walking a few steps took all her strength, but she soon set her sights on reaching 10,000 steps daily, often walking laps in her room to achieve her goal.
“I don’t walk as fast as I used to, and running is out of reach right now, but I haven’t given up,” she says. The dream of running again may be distant, but Amanda holds it as a promise to herself, working toward it with each step she takes.
RETURNING TO GREENVILLE: FUELED BY FAITH AND COMMUNITY
Determined to complete her degree on time, Amanda resumed her studies online in the fall of 2023. Despite her physical limitations, Amanda stayed active within the GU community. She works as a Hub desk assistant and serves as a resident assistant, a role she initially took on during her sophomore year. Although her accident prevented her from serving as the senior resident assistant of Putnam Hall in her junior year, Amanda's dedication never faltered.
“Amanda’s determination and grit surpass the usual student," says Director of Residence Life Johnny Hinton. "She's my lifesaver because of her hard work at the Hub desk and as an RA."
When she returned to campus, Johnny created a unique position for her as a Hub desk worker. "It's been a good fit—something productive that takes some stress off Keli and Johnny," Amanda shares.
Johnny also recalls Amanda’s role in WalkAbout this year. "Amanda was the glue in our group, connecting with everyone and pacing our team. There are few words to describe how valuable she has been to the GU community and Residence Life."
In addition to her work at the desk, Amanda manages Chapel credits and is choir member and a RA in Union Hall. Her resilience and willingness to contribute have left a lasting impression on everyone around her.
Her suitemates, both members of the GU basketball team, also speak highly of her. “Amanda has been a great suitemate and always gives encouraging words; she never fails to make others smile,” shares Natalie Iberg. Alyssa Seymour echoes, “She’s a great roommate and a very kind soul.” Their words capture the supportive and uplifting presence Amanda brings to her community.
GRATITUDE FOR THE DONORS WHO MAKE HER JOURNEY POSSIBLE
Amanda’s journey would not have been possible without GU’s donors. As a McAllister Scholarship recipient, she understands the impact of their support, especially as medical bills mounted after her accident. “I truly couldn’t have done this without you,” she says, addressing GU’s donors.
"Your generosity has allowed me to keep going, to fight for my future. It's not just something you put in a thank-you card—it's deeply personal. Because of you, I have the ability to attend."
INSPIRING STUDENTS AS SHE PREPARES FOR HER FUTURE
Amanda's journey has become a source of inspiration for others, especially the students she interacts with during her practicum in Litchfield. She welcomes questions about her brace and limp, using them as a chance to teach students about resilience and acceptance.
“I’m not shy about it—it’s part of who I am now,” she says. Her clinical experience has allowed her to foster conversations about compassion, showing others what it means to persevere.
LOOKING FORWARD WITH FAITH AND RELENTLESS SPIRIT
As graduation approaches, Amanda's resolve to walk across the stage unassisted is as firm as ever. Each step she takes, each day of healing, brings her closer to her dream of becoming a teacher.
“This experience has taught me what truly matters,” Amanda reflects. “I’ve learned to lean into faith and the support of this community. I’m grateful to everyone who has helped me stay in this fight."
