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The Healing Powers of the Fort Drum Soldier Recovery Unit
Falls Church, VA – Sgt. Chris Long, stationed at Fort Drum, has always been passionate about fishing. Fly fishing was one of those dreams he hoped to fulfill “one day.” He never imagined that this simple aspiration would become a significant stepping stone in his arduous recovery journey following a devastating car crash.
In the dark hours of Halloween 2022, Long faced a nightmarish reality. While driving in Watertown, New York, he lost control of his high-performance Corvette. “I had no experience with such a car. It hydroplaned so easily,” Long recalled, describing the horrific moment when the car smashed into a tree. The impact was shattering, both to the car and his body.
Rushed to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse in a critical state, Long underwent surgeries addressing his grave injuries. “They had to split my skull to counter the swelling in my brain,” said Long, who worked on Blackhawk helicopters.
Though he had his seatbelt on, the damages were extensive. From his fractured collarbone, shoulder, neck, to his lower spine, the road to recovery seemed arduous.
Four months post the accident, Long found himself at Fort Drum’s Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) – a haven he was unaware of despite his active service at Fort Drum.
“The SRU has been pivotal in my healing process,” expressed Long with gratitude. “They’ve transformed me from a shattered individual to someone with purpose and strength.”
While physical injuries are palpable, Long’s memory loss posed another set of challenges. With persistent physical, speech therapies, and the SRU’s Adaptive Reconditioning program, he rediscovered activities like fly fishing, tailored to his capabilities.
To Long’s astonishment, not only could he indulge in fly fishing, but it also became therapeutic for him. The structured process of fly fishing aided his memory recovery, bringing back a sense of normalcy to his life.
Long’s journey is a testament to the relentless support and dedication of the SRU staff. “They’ve been my backbone. They’re ensuring I’m on the right path, and their support is immeasurable,” said Long, expressing his desire to continue his work as a helicopter maintainer.
With nearly seven years of service in the Army, Long’s experience at the SRU was unexpected. Yet, he encourages others facing similar challenges to embrace the support of SRU wholeheartedly. “Always remember, they truly care about your wellness and progress,” Long concludes with a note of optimism.
Source: US Army
