Police Officer Returns to Hospital That Saved His Life

Ten years after he was rushed to Harris County Hospital District’s Ben Taub Hospital after suffering multiple gunshot wounds in the line of duty, retired Houston police officer Danny Vaughn returned to Ben Taub last month to visit with those who saved his life.

Walking hand in hand with his wife Beth, Vaughn made the rounds to the Emergency Center, neurological intensive care unit, and operating room.

“I make the trip back here every year ... I can’t thank the medical staff enough,” Vaughn said. “Without all the nurses, doctors and medical staff at Ben Taub, I would not be alive today.”

On that fateful day in 1993, Vaughn was substituting for another officer at a police substation just south of downtown when a gunman approached, shooting him four times in the face. Vaughn underwent a six-hour surgery at Ben Taub and required 500 units of blood.

“I was on staff the day Officer Vaughn was brought in. He was very critical. We did all we could to help him,” said Achammo Chacko, neurological intensive care unit nurse manager. “Seeing him today is remarkable.”

Following his near-death experience, Vaughn continued his work at the Houston Police Academy Gymnasium, where he conducted physical wellness evaluations on police officers and cadets. He also taught hands-on combat at the Houston Police Academy Firearms and Tactical Training Division.

“It’s exhilarating and miraculous that he is here,” said Stacie Yarbrough, project coordinator for trauma and surgical nursing. “Seeing him now, living his life, is great.”

Like so many who have faced death and lived, Vaughn’s zest for life is insatiable. He enjoys frequent trips to Mexico, sailing his boat and scuba diving.

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