A California nursing student narrowly survived a life-threatening accident when a metal pole pierced her car during rush-hour traffic on the 10 Freeway in San Bernardino. Janina Akporavbare, who was driving with her younger brother in the back seat, described the moment as terrifying and surreal. According to reports, the pole suddenly flew toward her vehicle, leaving her little time to react. Despite the danger, she managed to steer off the road and call 911, even as other cars ran over the pole while it remained lodged in her body.
Firefighters and emergency responders rushed to the scene and carefully cut the pole while a portion remained impaled in her stomach. She was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center, where doctors initially gave her only a 1% chance of survival. Akporavbare underwent nearly three major surgeries, including procedures on her liver, kidney, and part of her colon, and spent almost two months recovering in the hospital.
The ordeal also forced her to miss a semester of nursing school and time at work, leaving her with medical bills totaling roughly $1 million. Despite the trauma, Akporavbare expressed gratitude to the first responders and medical staff who saved her life. “It makes me want to be a nurse even more,” she said, emphasizing her desire to help others after experiencing such extraordinary care herself.
Authorities are investigating the source of the pole, which remains unknown. Akporavbare and her legal team are appealing to witnesses who may have information about how the pole became airborne on the freeway. “I want to find out who or what caused this, so I can have some peace,” she said.
Her story has drawn attention for the sheer improbability of her survival and the resilience she has shown since the accident. Medical experts, first responders, and the public alike have hailed her recovery as a remarkable testament to courage and determination. Despite her fears about driving again, Akporavbare remains focused on finishing her nursing degree and dedicating her life to helping others in critical situations.
The case highlights both the unpredictability of everyday life and the extraordinary efforts of emergency personnel and healthcare workers who save lives under the most challenging circumstances.
Filed under: California, car accidents, freak accidents, hospitals, nursing, survival story
