A traumatic injury can alter life in an instant. Recovery can be long and challenging and requires that resources are in place to meet the physical and emotional needs of both the injured and his or her family. The team at Reading Hospital Trauma Center is committed to supporting their patients by providing the tools they need to navigate the road to recovery. 

In the Hospital

When you are in the hospital, you can meet with a trained volunteer who is a survivor of traumatic injury or the loved one of a trauma survivor. Reading Hospital Trauma Survivors Network peer visitors will share their experience with you, listen to your story, and offer support on how to move forward after trauma. 

To arrange for a peer visit, call Jennifer Barney at 484-628-9890 or ask your nurse to connect you. Peer visitation is also available over the phone after discharge from the hospital.

Donations

If you are interested in making a planned gift or learning more about the 1867 Legacy Society, please contact:

Tony Balistrere
Director of Development
Reading Hospital Foundation
Reading Hospital
Tony.Balistrere@towerhealth.org
484-628-5126
PO Box 16052, Reading, PA 19612

Snack and Chat

For Family and Friends of Trauma Survivors

WhereFamily Waiting Room, Reading Hospital, T-Building, 5th floor
When11 a.m. to noon, Tuesday of each week

Reading Hospital Trauma Survivors Network team members are available to support you during your loved one’s hospital stay and share resources for their recovery process after discharge. 

You are invited to join the team to take time needed to recharge and seek support. Complimentary tea and snacks are available.

After Leaving the Hospital

Stay connected. Subscribe to a quarterly newsletter and stay up to date on local Trauma Survivor resources, support groups, and events. To join, email Jennifer.Barney@towerhealth.org.

National Resource: Trauma Survivor Network Website

The Trauma Survivors Network (TSN) is a community of patients and families seeking to connect after serious injuries. Membership is free.

Once you join the TSN, you have access to the following benefits:

  • An online community where trauma survivors and their families share experiences, information, and provide support and hope to one another
  • The Traumapedia, an online resource with information from leading experts in trauma care and rehabilitation
  • A link to CarePages, an easy-to-use resource to update others about the injury, treatment, and progress of a loved one
  • Access to the TSN NextSteps online self-management program and recovery assessment tools

To join, visit TraumaSurvivorsNetwork.org.