Hope’s Harbor: A Beacon of Support for Families in Crisis
FORT WAYNE, IN –
On the morning of March 16, 2024, Brant Miller’s life took a drastic turn when a car accident on Highway 124 left him with a traumatic brain injury. Thanks to the prompt actions of first responders and the exceptional care at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Brant’s life was saved. However, the journey for Brant and his family was far from over.
When Brant failed to arrive at work, his girlfriend, Sarah, tracked his phone to the hospital and alerted his mother, Crystal. Crystal and her husband, Shane, made the three-hour drive from their home after learning about the severity of Brant’s condition. Upon arrival, they were informed that Brant was in a medically induced coma and that the next 48 hours were critical.
Faced with sudden, unpredictable emotional and financial stress, and the long-term realities of Brant’s injury, the Millers knew they needed a place to stay for the unforeseeable future. The Millers were introduced to Hope’s Harbor, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing hospitality to families with children in the hospital. Shane and Crystal found more than just a room; they discovered a sanctuary offering comprehensive support and a sense of community.
Hope’s Harbor provided the Millers with complimentary hospitality: a private room and bath, access to a fully stocked community kitchen, comfortable living spaces, laundry facilities, and beautiful outdoor areas. The compassionate volunteers went above and beyond, offering home-cooked meals. The welcoming staff fostered a supportive environment where families could share their experiences and find solace in one another’s company. Crystal shares, “Volunteers cooked meals for guests several days a week and the guests bonded and supported one another at the kitchen table through life’s most tragic moments by sharing their stories with each other.”
After a 16-day stay, Brant was transferred to an acute care brain trauma center in Indianapolis. Thanks to his remarkable progress, he was released after just three days there to continue his recovery at a rehabilitation center near home.
“Hope’s Harbor was a beacon of support during our darkest hours,” said Crystal Miller. “The love, support, and hospitality provided by the staff and volunteers made an incredible difference in our ability to cope with Brant’s injury. We are eternally grateful for the community they created for us and other families facing similar crises.”
Hope’s Harbor continues to be a vital resource for families, providing Strength Next Door during medical emergencies. Dedicated to providing free services to all of their guests, they rely on the generosity of donors to make this possible. Their mission to offer comfort, support, and a sense of community to those in need exemplifies the spirit of compassion and hospitality.