By: Kiley Como with Shane Smith Law
In an instant, everything can change. One moment you are heading to lunch, the next you are fighting for your life. That is exactly what happened to Jeff Martinet Jr., a traumatic brain injury survivor whose story is as powerful as it is inspiring.
In this episode of Mind Matters, Kiley Como with Shane Smith Law sits down with Jeff to walk through his journey from a devastating crash to rebuilding his life with one mission: to make every second count.
A Life Changed in Seconds
While sitting at a red light on his way to lunch, Jeff entered an intersection after the light turned green. In a split second, a semi-truck ran the red light and T-boned his vehicle, knocking him unconscious immediately.
He would spend the next two and a half months in a coma.
Fighting to Survive
- Fractured jaw
- Broken neck
- Two fractured ribs
- Punctured lung
- Ruptured spleen
He required a ventilator, feeding tubes, and intensive care treatment. Doctors warned his family that he might never wake up. And if he did, they could not guarantee he would recognize them.
It was a moment no family is ever prepared for.
The Reality of Early Recovery
He had to relearn basic functions most people take for granted:
- Moving his body
- Communicating
- Eating
- Coordinating simple movements
At one point, the only way he could communicate was with his fingers. One finger meant “yes.” Two fingers meant “no.”
That was his starting point.
The Mental Battle After a TBI
Jeff faced challenges with:
- Motor control, including tremors
- Weakness on one side of his body
- Emotional regulation early in recovery
He also faced something many survivors struggle with: loss of identity.
Before the crash, he was an athlete. After the crash, he could no longer do the things that once defined him.
But instead of staying stuck in that loss, Jeff reframed his mindset.
When one ability is lost, another can be developed.
Progress Does Not Have a Deadline
Many patients are told they will not improve much after one year.
Jeff’s experience proves otherwise.
More than 20 years after his injury, he continues to see progress.
His message is simple:
- Progress is still possible
- Consistency matters
- Mindset plays a critical role
“Make Every Second Count”
During recovery, he set a personal rule. Every time he thought the word “can’t,” he would do five push-ups.
It did not matter where he was.
That discipline helped him eliminate limiting beliefs and build a new mindset focused on growth and possibility.
From there, the phrase was born:
Make every second count.
This mindset now drives how he approaches:
- Recovery
- Relationships
- Personal growth
- Helping others
Lessons for Survivors and Families
1. Recovery is not linear
2. Small wins matter
3. Mindset is powerful
4. Identity can evolve
5. It is never too late to improve
A Message of Hope
Keep going. It will get better.
Even when progress feels slow, even when the future feels uncertain, persistence matters.
Why This Matters
Understanding the full scope of recovery is critical, not just medically, but legally as well. Proper documentation of symptoms, progress, and limitations can play a major role in protecting a victim’s future.
Final Thoughts
From a teenager in a coma to an international speaker helping others, his journey is proof that recovery is possible and purpose can come from even the most devastating circumstances.
If you or a loved one is dealing with the aftermath of a serious injury, you do not have to face it alone.
In pain, call Shane. 980-999-9999
Shane Smith Law is here to help guide you through both recovery and the legal process.
Related Posts:
From Brain Injury to Purpose: How a TBI Survivor Turned Tragedy Into a Mission
