Just days before Sebastian’s 27th birthday, our world came to a sudden halt. On July 17, 2021, during the final day of our vacation, Sebastian unexpectedly suffered a brain aneurysm rupture. That night, during what felt like the longest hours of our lives, he underwent life-saving surgery and was placed in a medical coma. We were told that, due to the severity of the bleed, it was uncertain if he would wake up at all—but Sebastian, being Sebastian, woke up the next day.

Due to the strain on the medical system from the Delta wave of COVID-19, only one visitor was allowed in the ICU at a time, with a maximum of two visitors total for his stay. Camille and Sebastian’s mom, Jen, devised a plan and told hospital staff that Camille was his wife, so they could both take shifts caring for him.

For those unfamiliar with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or strokes, doctors rarely provide clear outcomes because of the uncertainty. Some nurses gave Camille a stark reality check, warning her of the long and difficult road ahead. One nurse even feared Sebastian might not remember her at all. Despite this, Camille put her career on hold and stayed in Corpus Christi to be by his side every moment she could. But when Sebastian was finally able to speak, the first thing he said when asked about Camille was, “Why, that’s my beautiful wife, of course.”

At home, Camille was heartbroken, scared, and overwhelmed. But in the hospital, she and Jen maintained an unspoken rule: no negativity. Sebastian remembers only hope and positivity from that time, even if it was the most terrifying experience of their lives.

Accommodations

Cypress Creek Cottages

Hotel Flora and Fauna

Wimberley Inn + Bar

Blanco River Hotel