CURE, Exercise Science Students at Carroll Help Stroke Survivor Reach New Heights

At Carroll University, a stroke survivor known as Joe is rewriting what recovery can look like—thanks to a powerful, multi-semester partnership with undergraduate Exercise Science and graduate Exercise Physiology students at the Carroll University Rehabilitative Exercise (CURE) Clinic.

Joe, a double stroke survivor with complete left-side paralysis, has spent four semesters working with CURE Exercise Physiology students and the last three with senior Exercise Science Capstone students dedicated to designing customized therapeutic interventions. Over that time, he has made remarkable functional and emotional strides, highlighting both his perseverance and the transformative impact of hands-on student learning.

Among Joe’s major achievements:

• Regained the ability to lift his affected leg into a car, a key step toward daily independence.
• First reflexive movement in his left leg since his strokes.
• The ability to sit comfortably without pain.
• The ability to take the garbage out using his left hand.

But Joe’s most dramatic breakthrough happened outside the clinic.

Joe was paired with fourth-year Exercise Science student Layla Tank. For 12 weeks. Layla guided him through two 90-minute sessions per week focusing on mobility, strength and confidence. During an adaptive climbing session at Adventure Rock, and with support from his Capstone partner, Joe attempted rock climbing for the first time—and reached the top of the climbing wall, not once but twice. As Joe touched the top hold, he was moved to tears by a moment he believed would never be possible again.

Faculty say Joe’s progress reflects the heart of the CURE Clinic’s mission: empowering clients through consistent, innovative support while offering students real-world, life-changing clinical experience.

“Moments like this show what is possible when dedication, creativity, and compassion come together,” said Dr. Karen Buckley. “Our students learn from every challenge, and our clients continue to inspire us.”

In the Fall 2025 semester alone, eight Exercise Physiology and 10 Exercise Science students completed practical clinical rotations through CURE, providing individualized rehabilitative support to community members like Joe. Their work demonstrates the unique value of student-led rehabilitation, where learning and healing occur side by side.