Scott’s life has been a remarkable journey. As a professional drummer in the 1980s and 90s, he toured with top country acts, marked by a notable performance at the 1989 Grammys. He met Kris, who worked for a record producer, and the two married in Nashville.  

Their life of harmony was drastically changed when Scott suffered a vertebral artery dissection (VAD) while doing yardwork. As a runner and routine exerciser, Scott was a healthy person and thought he would just walk off the initial symptoms. When his symptoms worsened, including a severe headache, dizziness, numbness and weakness in his arm, he went to the hospital. Scott was diagnosed with a blood clot at the base of his brain and as doctors tried to dissolve the clot with medication, Scott suffered a bilateral cerebellar stroke.  

The demanding recovery of a stroke patient happens in many phases. From the intensive care unit to inpatient rehabilitation and eventually home care, each step is marked by progress, setbacks and hope. Scott’s determination was evident and helped him make great strides through rehabilitation. However, the couple thought there had to be more options and they found just that in Alexandre Carter, MD, at WashU Medicine.  

Scott and Kris were impressed with Dr. Carter from the beginning, “It’s not often the doctor actually comes to get you from the waiting room, and he paid us that level of attention every step of the way,” Kris remarked. The couple appreciated his unmatched dedication, compassion, and attention to Scott’s condition. Dr. Carter suggested a cutting-edge therapy: Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS). 

Entering VNS therapy, Scott didn’t have a specific deficit he was targeting to improve, although the therapy has success at helping people improve upper extremity mobility. Instead, Scott had hope for general improvement and said, “Any improvement will be worth it!”  

Worth it, it was – even though the initial therapy routine had the couple commuting hours to St. Louis three times a week. During this outpatient therapy commitment, Scott worked with expert physical therapist, Theresa Medastein, to learn how to incorporate the use of VNS in his daily life. Now, he activates the stimulator about four times a day, like before doing yard work and other activities requiring additional support. Scott experienced impactful improvements on a broad scale, like feeling more confident in daily activities. Kris noticed a newfound relaxation in his posture and demeanor, plus improvements to his stride and speech.  

Kris reflects, “As challenging as it has been, I am grateful to Dr. Carter and everything that has come with it. The care from WashU Medicine has been exceptional. I encourage everyone to do their homework and ask questions. Some changes may not be earth-shattering, but every improvement is significant.” Kris and Scott have taken their unique perspective to advocate for stroke patients. They offer mentorship at their local hospital and speak to occupational therapists in-training each year about the importance of informed, expert care.  

Stroke Survivor Awareness Month  

As we observe Stroke Survivor Awareness Month this May, we recognize Scott and Kris as shining examples of stroke survivors and their support systems. Scott is every doctor's favorite patient because he does exactly what is asked of him and gives it his all. Kris is a remarkable supporter and advocate for Scott's continued success. Stroke affects individuals differently, and the road to recovery can be long. But with the right support and expert medical care, every small step forward is a victory.  

We encourage everyone to learn more about stroke prevention, symptoms, and the importance of immediate action and medical attention. If you or a loved one experiences a stroke, remember that it matters where you receive care. Seek the best possible treatment from institutions like WashU Medicine where comprehensive, collaborative and cutting-edge care propels recovery and medical discoveries.