Retired Army Veteran Chris Scott’s life changed dramatically after suffering a severe hemorrhagic stroke on Nov. 3, 2023. Following a live fire exercise with SEAL Team 8, he went to bed feeling nauseous and woke up three days later in a coma. Initially treated at an outside hospital, he was later transferred to the Central Virginia VA Healthcare System and Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center (PRC) for intensive rehabilitation.

At PRC, Scott faced the reality of being completely dependent on others for daily tasks, which he found overwhelming. His main goals were to walk again and to become independent enough so his wife wouldn’t need to care for him full-time. Through a comprehensive rehabilitation program that included various therapies, Scott worked hard to regain his mobility and functions.

After completing his rehabilitation, Scott returned home but recognized the need for ongoing support, leading him to enter the Polytrauma Transitional Rehabilitation Program. Now, he is adapting to life outside the hospital, cherishing time with his family, including a new baby. His journey highlights the collective impact of stroke recovery on families and underscores the importance of awareness and support.