Support Us Button Widget
Sponsored Content

The farmer who cheated death

Without life-saving care from UK HealthCare, Howard Galbreath’s story could have had a different ending.

Sponsored by
6AM - Howard Galbreath - 1200x720.jpg

“I told him, ‘Doc, you gave me the gift of life,’” Howard said. “That’s the greatest thing you could give me.”

Photo courtesy of UK HealthCare

He may have been 81, but that hadn’t slowed Howard Galbreath from cutting down trees, chopping firewood, and other active work on the Owenton, Ky. farm he shares with his daughter, son-in-law, and grandson.

In 2022, the Kentucky farmer was busy going about his day on the farm when a freak ATV accident crushed the right side of his body.

“I know I’m hurt bad,” Howard remembers thinking as the 700-lb. ATV rolled off of him. Somehow, he reached his phone and had the wherewithal to have his daughter call 9-1-1.

Howard’s life-threatening injury consisted of a fractured collarbone and seven fractured ribs, all jeopardizing the blood vessels around his heart.

It took a rare surgical procedure led by UK HealthCare trauma surgeon Dr. Zachary Warriner to stabilize Howard’s ribs, protect his heart, and ensure he would be able to return to the active life he loved.

Read more about the life-saving care Howard received at UK HealthCare and how his recovery has him back on the farm below.

Howard’s determined recovery.

More from LEXtoday
Help keep Lexington’s waterways clean by painting a local storm drain with important pollution prevention messaging.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Spoiler alert: Traffic isn’t great. We dove into the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s congestion data so you don’t have to.
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
From downtown stops to airport routes, Lextran makes navigating the city simple. Learn how to plan your trip, find fares, and make the most of public transit.
Stock up on fresh, local flavors at Lexington’s top farm shops. Family farms and markets offer seasonal picks and homemade treats.
From tiny homes to 21c, Lexington is full of special places to stay that offer guests a break from traditional motels and hotels.
Have a night full of treats — not tricks — whether you’re trick-or-treating, passing candy out, or just avoiding the extra traffic.
You don’t have to travel to the Napa Valley for that true vineyard experience — just outside of Lexington seven wineries are ready to host you for glasses, tastings, and tours.
Lexington rent prices can vary widely depending on where you live. Here’s a look at the priciest, most affordable, and most popular neighborhoods in the city.