Support Howard’s Stroke Care

Support for Howard Tallent

on Saturday, May 6, 2023 - Howard or “Howie”, a husband, father, pop pop, son, brother, fireman, and veteran suffered an Ischemic stroke. We aren’t sure of the cause of the stroke yet other than a blood clot that was found in his brain and has since been successfully removed. Unfortunately, there was damage to the left side of his brain.

Howard is a very private person who never asks for help! We are reaching out asking for prayers, thoughts & donations to help with the mounting bills.

Howard is a full time fireman with Stokesdale Fire Department and a volunteer with Huntsville Fire Department. He loves to help others whether it be on a medical call to putting out fires. He is a large asset to the community and is loved by all.

Overcoming the odds he has made some amazing progress.

We are trying to get him into an intense in-patient rehab program that believes they can get him back on track.

Day one: Howard could not speak or move his right side with limited vision. Things appeared to be pretty grim.

Day two (Sunday): He had a speech therapist and physical therapist work with him today. He’s still not able to get a sound out but he’s able to mimic a few hand gestures. And is able to chew ice, swallow spoonfuls of water and applesauce. He also walked a few steps today, but with ALOT of help.

Day three (Monday): We’ve had speech therapy and physical therapy today. He did well with both. He is feeding himself now and has been approved to eat real food! Yay!! And he has been moving his right side some. He was able to stand up and sit down with little assistance. He has also been trying to talk, getting out sounds. And I think we heard an OK.

Day four (Tuesday): Howard has an excellent appetite and is eating regular meals by himself. He is brushing his own teeth. The physical therapist had walk with a walker the whole length of the hallway and back. The occupational therapist worked with his right arm and also had him walk to the sink to brush his teeth to use both arms. He woke up this morning trying to speak. He has “yeah”, “no” and “ok” down pat. We distinctly heard “friend” today. And he has attempted sentences.

He served 12 years active duty in the United States Army, serving in Iraq (5 tours) and Bosnia, making him a Combat Veteran. He was a Door Gunner/Crew Chief on the UH-60 Blackhawk. He also is a member of the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association.