May 14, 2026 — After a life-altering event such as a stroke, healing becomes a complex journey that requires medical care, emotional support and a strong community. Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of East Valley works to ensure patients have the resources and connections they need after they leave the hospital.
In addition to discharge materials, the hospital offers support groups and educational programs to help patients adjust to life after a stroke. As part of the hospital’s ongoing support of stroke survivors, it is hosting its third annual Stroke Golf Tournament in May. Proceeds from the event fund a weekend retreat for Encompass Health East Valley’s stroke survivors and their caregivers. The retreat is held each September in Prescott, Arizona, with the goal to help stroke survivors build emotional support networks and connect with others who understand the challenges of recovery.
“The tournament and retreat provide an environment for stroke survivors to have a fun weekend, make new connections, get pampered by the volunteers and learn from other stroke survivors who are going through similar things,” said Derek Poulson, therapy team leader.
The tournament is more than a day on the course. Former patients return each year to share their recovery stories and the lessons they gained from attending the retreat. The event traditionally opens with a stroke survivor and previous patient that experienced aphasia — a condition that affects speech — performing the national anthem.
“Seeing survivors connect at the tournament or the retreat reminds us why this work matters,” Poulson said. “Rehabilitation doesn’t end when someone leaves the hospital. These relationships are a powerful part of recovery, and events like this help keep that momentum going.”
The retreat includes breakout sessions for survivors and caregivers, support groups and open discussions about life after a stroke. Each year also features an educational session led by a medical professional. Past topics have focused on goal setting and maintaining a positive mindset during recovery.
“I believe the biggest impact of community events like this is that they allow patients to meet other stroke survivors and build a strong community of support,” Poulson said. “We have many stroke survivors who return to the golf tournament and the retreat each year. They’ve built strong bonds and relationships that continue to support them throughout their recovery.”
Approximately 100 golfers participate in the tournament each year. Past players have included former patients, retired NFL players, therapists and community leaders. In 2025, physical therapy students from A.T. Still University participated in the retreat for the first time. The students provided free screenings to help survivors identify ongoing functional limitations and created personalized home exercise programs.
