Memphis Veteran Graduates Nursing School After Life-Altering Parachute Accident
Who:
Corey Scott, a 30-year-old veteran of the United States Army’s 101st Airborne Division, has overcome immense challenges after a tragic parachuting accident.
What:
Scott graduated with a nursing degree from the University of Memphis on Sunday, following a life-changing experience that started with a parachute malfunction during a jump eight years ago.
Where:
The graduation ceremony took place in Memphis, Tennessee, where Scott has returned after his military service and extensive rehabilitation.
When:
Scott’s accident occurred in August 2016, and he recently celebrated his graduation in May 2024, marking a significant milestone in his recovery and journey toward a new career.
Why:
Originally pursuing human performance and sports science at Tennessee State University, Scottโs desire for personal growth led him to the Army. After his accident, he found inspiration during his recovery in the compassionate care he received from nurses, igniting his passion for nursing.
A Journey of Resilience
Scott boarded a plane in Germany, prepared for what he considered a routine jump. He had successfully jumped from planes more than 65 times. However, this jump took a life-altering turn when his parachute collapsed, resulting in severe injuries to multiple parts of his body. In a desperate effort to save his life, he pulled his reserve chute. Although this action prevented an even graver outcome, it did not shield him from catastrophic injuries, including broken legs, shoulders, and pelvis.
Facing Adversity Alone
Following the accident, Scott spent 11 long months in rehabilitation. He initially chose to keep his family at a distance to avoid exposing them to his traumatic condition. โI experienced a lot of what I didnโt know at the time was PTSD, anxiety, depression,โ he recalled. In those dark moments, he discovered a pathway to healing through his faith. Scott saw his ordeal as an opportunity to grow spiritually and found solace in his relationship with God. He made a promise to God that if he regained his health, he would dedicate his life to helping others.
An Inspiring Transformation
During his recovery, the care he received from a team of six nurses inspired Scott to pursue a nursing career. Despite language barriers, the empathetic nature of his caregivers provided a lifeline. โThey never judged meโฆ they showed me what being empathetic and being caring for somebody is,โ he expressed with gratitude. After completing his rehabilitation in July 2017, Scott resumed his education, eventually settling back in Memphis to be closer to his daughter.
Building a New Life
Scottโs military experience provided him with unique skills in handling high-pressure situations, which translated well into the demanding environment of an emergency room. His classmates frequently looked to him for support, appreciating his calm and humorous approach during stressful scenarios. โIt meant the world to me,โ Scott said about his role among peers.
Future Aspirations
Scottโs successful trajectory through nursing school culminated in him being chosen as a speaker at the Loewenberg College of Nursingโs convocation. As he contemplates the future, he is focused on passing the NCLEX exam to become a licensed nurse. He has options to either stay in the ER or shift to an intensive care unit. Within the next few years, Scott aspires to enter a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist program.
Dedication to Family and Gratitude
Having made substantial sacrifices during his educational journey, Scott plans to take time off to prioritize his relationship with his daughter. He wishes to express appreciation for her support during his late-night study sessions. โIโm thinking of taking her on a trip or something, just spending as much time as I can with her,โ he stated.
With plans to perhaps reconnect with the nurses who aided him, Scott envisions sharing this part of his journey with his daughter when sheโs older. โI hope theyโre proud of who I became because without them I wouldnโt be who I am today,โ he concluded, highlighting the profound impact that care and compassion had on his life.
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
