On June 26, 2023, Tom Wassell’s life changed dramatically. After suffering a stroke, the medical team at Saint Francis Hospital discovered that he had a 90% blockage in one of his carotid arteries, requiring emergency surgery. Although the procedure was successful in removing the blockage, Tom’s journey took another challenging turn when he suffered a second stroke, leaving him paralyzed on his right side, unable to speak, and with minimal cognitive function.
When Tom woke up in the ICU, he was met by a team of dedicated healthcare professionals led by neurologist Dr. Dimitri Mirtchev. After three days, he was moved to the Step-Down unit, where his care continued under the watchful eyes of an exceptional nursing team, including Tracey. At that point, Tom’s cognitive abilities were severely impaired—he couldn’t identify objects, state his birthday, recite the current date, or even write his own name.
Despite the severity of his condition, Tom was determined to defy the odds. During his early days in recovery, he told Tracey, “I am going to drive at Nashville Motor Speedway in September, by myself, no matter what.” His wife, Sharene, who had been steadfastly supporting him, was understandably concerned and expressed her doubts to Tracey, saying, “There is no way that is happening.”
Over the next seven weeks, Tom underwent intensive cognitive and speech therapy. Though progress was slow, his determination never wavered. When Tom and Sharene met with Dr. Mirtchev, Tom once again brought up his goal of racing. While Dr. Mirtchev couldn’t fully endorse the idea, he suggested a two-hour driving test at Mount Sinai as a compromise. Tom agreed to Sharene’s terms: if he didn’t pass the test, he would give up his racing dream. However, against all expectations, Tom passed with outstanding results.
On September 20th, Tom achieved his goal, driving at Nashville Motor Speedway and clocking in at an impressive 161.56 MPH. Not content to stop there, he also raced at Atlanta Motor Speedway the following March. This achievement was not just a personal victory but a testament to his hard work and the exceptional care he received at Saint Francis Hospital.
“The team at Saint Francis, including specialists, surgeons, ICU and Step-Down nurses, were amazing. I often felt like I was the only patient they were caring for,” Tom reflected on his experience. The comprehensive and compassionate care he received played a pivotal role in his remarkable recovery.
Tom’s journey continued as he worked on regaining his strength with his personal trainer, Stephanie. Since January 2024, Stephanie has been guiding Tom through strength conditioning and balance exercises, with Tom attending the gym four times a week. He has also resumed playing golf, enjoying the sport two to three times a week.
“I am proud of Tom for returning to training,” says Stephanie. “His determination to support his goals is an inspiration, and seeing his progress firsthand is truly a privilege.”
In gratitude for the exceptional care he received, Tom and Sharene made a gift in honor of his care team at Saint Francis, including his nurse Tracey. Their donation supports ongoing education and training for nurses, ensuring the highest quality of care for future patients. To honor a caregiver or make a donation, please click here.
Tom Wassell’s story is one of resilience and the power of outstanding medical care. The specialists, surgeons, nurses, and therapists at Saint Francis Hospital weren’t just his caregivers—they were his partners in recovery, helping him reclaim his life, one step and one race at a time.