Patient, 1969 and 2001

MIRACLE GIRL IN 1969 AND 2001

On April 29, 1969, little Racquel came into the world nearly four months early, and was whisked immediately to the brand-new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. "She was so tiny. She spent 37 days in the incubator, and I was so thrilled when I could finally take her home with me," says Johniece Brooks, Racquel's mother. "MedStar Washington Hospital Center saved her life."

Little could Johniece imagine that 32 years later, the hospital would do the same for her daughter once again.

On September 11, 2001, Racquel was working at the Pentagon when the terrorists struck. She suffered burns in the attack, and was one of the last people taken by helicopter to hospital's Burn Center.

"Friends came from all over to support Racquel, and we were so grateful for their kindness," says Johniece emotionally. "And we are very grateful to MedStar Washington Hospital Center and the staff there. Racquel's been twice saved. She is our miracle girl."