Near-death experiences (NDEs) have intrigued both scientists and the public for decades. Many people who survive cardiac arrest or other life-threatening events describe moments of clarity, bright lights, peaceful sensations, or encounters with familiar figures. While medicine has made great progress in explaining the physical processes that occur when the body shuts down, what happens inside the brain during these moments remains a compelling scientific mystery.
One widely discussed case is that of Tom Kearney, who was struck by a bus in 2009 shortly before Christmas. His injuries were critical, and he remained in a coma for two weeks. During that time, Tom later reported experiencing vivid, dream-like scenes that felt incredibly real to him. He described finding himself in familiar places and meeting relatives who had passed away, each encouraging him to “go home” to his loved ones.
When Tom regained consciousness, he remembered these moments in striking detail, as though he had lived them across different places and times. Researchers, including Dr. Charlotte Martial from the University of Liège’s Coma Science Group, studied his case as part of broader research on NDEs. Their work suggests that these experiences may be linked to how the brain reacts to extreme stress. A sudden lack of oxygen and the release of chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins can create sensations of calm and vivid imagery, acting as a kind of neurological response during trauma.
Tom’s experience continues to fascinate both scientists and those interested in the spiritual dimension of NDEs. While each case is unique, stories like his offer rare insights into how the human brain may function at the edge of consciousness. Rather than providing definitive answers, they highlight how much we still have to learn about the mind’s response in life-threatening situations.