Scots mum left in coma with severe brain injury after being hit by SUV in America

A Scottish mother is fighting for her life in a coma with a severe brain injury after being struck by an SUV in America. Jane Rubens, 73, from Edinburgh, has undergone several brain surgeries and remains in a critical condition following the incident in St. Louis, Missouri, on November 1. Despite the traumatic ordeal, her family faced additional distress when their mother’s insurance company, AXA Partners, pressured them to move her back to Scotland for treatment, even against medical advice.

Jane’s daughter, Cat Rubens, shared their heartbreaking story on social media, highlighting the lack of empathy and understanding shown by the insurance provider during such a challenging time. The family received advice from neurology experts recommending that it was not in Jane’s best interest to fly her back to the UK at this acute stage of her injury. Despite this, AXA Partners insisted that she be repatriated to Scotland or risk losing coverage for her medical expenses in the US.

Cat expressed her frustration with the ultimatum given by the insurance company, stating that they felt cornered into agreeing to the repatriation plan due to the threat of losing coverage. The situation escalated when AXA Partners faced backlash for their handling of the case, prompting them to issue an apology and affirm that Jane’s welfare was their priority.

The Rubens family continues to advocate for Jane’s best interests, emphasizing the importance of considering her medical condition before making any decisions about relocating her. They stress that the focus should be on what is medically optimal for Jane rather than solely on transporting her from one location to another. Despite the immense challenges they are facing, they remain hopeful for Jane’s recovery and are determined to ensure she receives the appropriate care she needs.

As the family navigates this difficult journey, they are grateful for the outpouring of support from their community and are focused on staying strong for Jane during this critical time of need. The unwavering love and dedication shown by Cat and her family exemplify the strength and resilience needed to confront such a traumatic situation.

In times of crisis, it is essential for insurance companies to demonstrate compassion and understanding towards individuals and families facing medical emergencies. Communication, empathy, and a patient-centered approach are crucial in supporting those who are already enduring immense physical and emotional challenges. The Rubens family’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing human well-being above all else in times of crisis and uncertainty.