Memphis Veteran Overcomes Tragedy to Graduate Nursing School After Parachute Accident

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, Scott’s 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. “I experienced a lot of what I didn’t know at the time was PTSD, anxiety, depression,” 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. “They never judged me… they showed me what being empathetic and being caring for somebody is,” 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

Scott’s 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. “It meant the world to me,” Scott said about his role among peers.

Future Aspirations

Scott’s successful trajectory through nursing school culminated in him being chosen as a speaker at the Loewenberg College of Nursing’s 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. “I’m thinking of taking her on a trip or something, just spending as much time as I can with her,” 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 she’s older. “I hope they’re proud of who I became because without them I wouldn’t be who I am today,” he concluded, highlighting the profound impact that care and compassion had on his life.