Catching up with 2017 Goal Award recipient Rob Meador

It’s been six years since Rob Meador of Lincoln, Nebraska, experienced a severe stroke due to complications from a drug administered to treat potentially deadly blood clots in his lungs. The stroke left him unable to move, swallow or breathe independently.
“My biggest goal at the time was to be able to come home and live at home, not in a nursing home,” said Rob. “Eventually, I was in a position I could, and be with my wife, at our home we’ve shared memories in for over 30 years.”
After six months of intensive therapy at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals, he gradually regained his mobility and self-confidence. Madonna’s outpatient Rehabilitation Day Program allowed Rob to continue taking steps toward independence. Rob left Madonna’s Lincoln campus in 2015, where he spent over a year recovering through the entire continuum of care. 
Due to his incredible courage, attitude and determination, in 2017, Rob was honored with a Madonna Goal Award. He’s quick to credit his nursing and therapy teams for their constant encouragement. “I like to think I’m Madonna strong,” said Rob.
Today, Rob is an active volunteer at the Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center, where he coaches youth at the archery range. Rob spends hours every week showing kids of all ages how to properly place their arms, elbows and aim.
Thanks to Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals, Rob now has the gift of time. The time he uses to teach others about the sport he loves the most. For the last four years, Rob has coached Lincoln’s East High School archery team. He even helped the team win first place at the state tournament.