Jammie Contrael
A success story 25 years in the making
A life-changing experience
Twenty-five years ago, Jammie (Lucas) Contrael was a happy, carefree four year old. But on July 23, 1983, all that changed. On that day, Jammie, her 2 year-old brother and her mother were in a horrific car accident. The accident claimed the life of her mother and left Jammie in a coma, with severe head injuries and paralysis on her right side.
A turning point
Grieving the loss of his wife, and with his daughter, Jammie, critically injured, Barry Lucas was unsure of where to turn. Then he heard about The Children’s Institute. For nearly eight months, he watched as his daughter underwent extensive therapy, including learning how to walk and talk all over again. A few years after her rehabilitation, Barry Lucas watched proudly as Jammie appeared in one of the Amazing Kids commercials.
A brand new life
Today, Jammie is a happy and healthy 30 year old. She’s been married for eight years and has two beautiful boys — a 4 year old and a 6 year old. She graduated from Butler Community College with an associate degree in Early Childhood Education. While she doesn’t remember any of her life before the accident, Jammie credits The Children’s Institute for the care she received during her time there. “I am very thankful my dad chose The Children’s Institute and thankful for the wonderful people who cared for me. Without them, I wouldn’t have everything I have today. If I could say one thing it would be thank you. You are amazing.”
