Xander’s story: Recovery after a life-changing motorcycle accident

For most high school seniors, graduation marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. For Xander Liston, it represents something even greater: a milestone in a recovery journey that nearly cost him his life. In an instant, Xander's life changed. While traveling on Redwood Road in Riverton, Utah, he was involved in a motorcycle accident.

Life-changing injuries after a motorcycle accident

He was rushed to Intermountain Medical Center, where he spent several weeks receiving critical care. His mother, Heather Liston, recalled the moment she learned of the accident.

“I was at work when I received a call from the police,” Heather said. “All I could do was call my husband and get to the hospital as quickly as possible. He was in critical condition, and we didn't think he was going to survive.”

Xander suffered 27 broken bones, a lacerated spleen, a bruised kidney, punctured lungs and a traumatic brain injury. He underwent several surgeries and spent weeks in critical care. For 17 days, his care team worked tirelessly to save his life and stabilize his condition.

Once stabilized, Xander was transferred to Utah Valley Specialty Hospital, where he spent several months recovering. There, he gradually regained strength and improved his swallowing and communication skills. Despite the severity of the accident, he continued to fight through every challenge.

Choosing inpatient rehabilitation after a traumatic brain injury

As his condition improved, Xander became more communicative and was able to complete evaluation assessments required for rehabilitation. He was ready to take the next step in his recovery. His physicians recommended inpatient brain injury rehabilitation. His family chose Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Utah.

“I heard great things about Encompass Health Utah, and the hospital was closer to our house,” Heather said. “I never missed a day at my son’s side.”

How therapy helped Xander regain strength and independence

Working closely with his care team, Xander focused on rebuilding his strength, improving his mobility and regaining independence. His ultimate goal was to walk again.

His physical therapist, occupational therapist and speech-language pathologist supported him throughout his rehabilitation journey.

“It was amazing every day,” Xander said. “My therapist Allison was great. I remember throwing beanbags into a basket to work on my balance and coordination. I would stand at the parallel bars and practice walking.”

With his occupational and speech therapists, he worked on activities of daily living (ADL) like eating and bathing.

Along the way, he also received peer support.

“I knew I made progress when I talked with another patient that was there and he told me just how good I was doing,” Xander said. “That made me feel really good.”

Returning home to continue his recovery

On discharge day, Xander celebrated his progress by ringing the bell, signifying that he successfully completed his rehabilitation.

“It was great seeing everyone support me,” Xander said.

Today, Xander is back home continuing his recovery with home health services. Despite his challenges and setbacks, he achieved his goal: graduating from high school.

He is now performing self-care tasks independently and is walking with a walker. Xander remains focused on his recovery and looks forward to achieving his final goal — riding his motorcycle again.