Teen Volleyball Star Battles Back After Life-Threatening Crash
Hope Perseveres Despite Tragic Accident
Aileen Xue, a promising volleyball star from Hillsborough High School, was on top of her game: balancing top grades, a burgeoning music career, and a place on the prestigious Taiwanese Under-18 Women’s National Volleyball team she was set to join in 2024. Then, a devastating car accident in March 2024 threatened not only her athletic career but her life.
The highly traumatic brain injury suffered in the crash landed Aileen at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital’s Level I Trauma Center. From there, she underwent a series of life-saving neurosurgical procedures at The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital,as doctors worked tirelessly to save her.
Their efforts weren’t in vain.
Through it all, Aileen’s courage and willpower shone through. Her very existence was a beacon of hope, earning her the moniker “miracle patient” from her medical team.
After enduring weeks in a medically induced coma to allow her brain to heal, Aileen faced six surgeries before finally being discharged on October 28, 2024.
Aileen’s journey would be far from over, though. Her dedication to physiotherapy and rehabilitation went above and beyond; a constant flame pushing her towards recovery.
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Her mettle has proven as fierce as ever, facing her physical therapy
Just months before her world was turned upside down, Aileen had been riding high on the precipice of a promising future.
She had planned to join NYU’s volleyball team, honed her skills as a member of the Skyland Conference and the prestigious Taiwanese Under 18 Women's National Team.
But in an instant, everything changed.
For Aileen, returning to the game she so loved became more than a simple dream; volleyball became the very core of her recovery journey. The sport is more than just a game, says her mother, Ning Lee.
“It means a lot to all of us that Rutgers Volleyball honored her,” Lee said. “Despite everything that has happened.”
The team honored Aileen during a Rutgers-Penn State women’s volleyball match in November. She was named the RWJBarnabas Health Shining Knight of the Game, a token of her unwavering spirit.
Though still filled with the challenges of healing, she found renewed motivation and strength in the familiar comfort of the court.
Even during the toughest periods of her rehabilitation, Aileen never lost sight of her goal.
A Long Road to Recovery
Aileen’s comeback is a testament to her spirit and the dedication of her team.
Following her discharge from BMSCH, Aileen continued her recovery at PSE&G Children’s Specialized Hospital, working with dedicated physical and occupational therapists. Her resilience shone through, embracing every challenge.
“It has been therapy for her, and she is very motivated to play again,” said Lee.
Lee acknowledges the incredible support provided by BMSCH and its sister hospital, CSH.
Aileen’s story is not just about overcoming physical adversity; it’s also a story of hope for the future. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of both physical and mental strength,
Lee emphasizes, “Through Aileen’s suffering, we hope to raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, so that no other family needs to go through the hardship we did.”
How has Aileen Xue’s experience changed her perspective on life?
## Interview: Aileen Xue’s Courageous Comeback
**(Host):** Joining us today is Aileen Xue, a young volleyball star who has shown incredible resilience after facing a life-threatening accident. Aileen, welcome to the show.
**(Aileen):** Thank you for having me.
**(Host):** You were on the verge of a remarkable future before the accident in March. Tell us a little about your life then.
**(Aileen):** I was balancing a lot, that’s for sure! Top grades were important, but I also loved music and was thrilled to have been selected for the Taiwanese Under-18 Women’s National Volleyball team. Joining NYU’s volleyball team was another exciting prospect.
**(Host):** Everything changed dramatically after the car accident. Can you describe what happened and the immediate aftermath?
**(Aileen):** It’s all a bit of a blur. I remember the crash, but then everything went dark. I woke up in the hospital weeks later, and I learned about the traumatic brain injury I had sustained. The doctors at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital were amazing. I underwent six surgeries and spent several weeks in a medically induced coma. [[1](https://www.instagram.com/aileenxue2026/)]
**(Host):** You were called a “miracle patient” by your medical team. What was your mindset during those challenging months of recovery?
**(Aileen):** I knew I had a long road ahead. But I refused to give up. There were tough days, but the support of my family and friends, and the dedication of the medical staff, kept me going. I had to fight for every milestone.
**(Host):** You’ve shown incredible determination in your physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
**(Aileen):** It’s been grueling, but I’m focused on regaining my strength and coordination. Volleyball has always been my passion, and I’m determined to get back on the court.
**(Host):** What message would you give to others facing similar challenges?
**(Aileen):** Never lose hope. Even when things seem impossible, keep fighting. Find your inner strength and draw support from those around you.
**(Host):** Aileen Xue, your story is an inspiration to us all. Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
**(Aileen):** Thank you.
