May 20, 2026 — Nearly 40 stroke survivors, family members, hospital staff and community partners gathered at Rehabilitation Hospital of Naples for a stroke survivor celebration, an event aimed at building community support and providing education.
The event featured hospital teams and community vendors offering resources, including stroke education, support group details, art therapy activities, prosthetic and orthotic services, palliative care information and emerging support technology. Encompass Health leaders said the goal was to connect survivors and families with tools that support long-term recovery and wellness.
“Events like this foster connection, education and community engagement,” said Megan Seyler, respiratory therapist supervisor at Rehabilitation Hospital of Naples. “For us, it's an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of stroke survivors and recognize the strength and resilience required throughout the recovery journey.”
Seyler said the event also helped raise awareness about stroke prevention and long term care while strengthening partnerships with local organizations. She added that the hospital intends to host the celebration every year.
Among the survivors attending was Brian Hull, a former patient who sustained multiple strokes after complications from surgery for a pituitary tumor. Hull spent four weeks in the intensive care unit, underwent a tracheostomy and spent two weeks in long term acute care before transferring to Rehabilitation Hospital of Naples for intensive inpatient rehabilitation.
Hull arrived unable to communicate, walk or care for himself. When he discharged, Hull had regained the ability to do all three activities and has continued to regain his independence.
“My stay at Encompass Health gave me my life back,” Hull said. “They helped me through the hardest time in my life. They did so with competency, kindness and compassion.”
Hull said returning for the celebration was emotional and encouraging.
“It was heartwarming and very informational,” he said. “I left with new community resources and connections for my ongoing healing journey. Most importantly, I felt celebrated and respected.”
Seyler said stories like Hull's reflect why the hospital plans to continue the event annually.
“Recovery does not happen in isolation,” she said. “A strong, informed and connected community can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for stroke survivors.”
Rehabilitation Hospital of Naples has multiple resources for stroke survivors and their caregivers, including events such as the stroke survivor celebration and stroke survivor groups dedicated to empowering members through shared experiences, education and encouragement.
