Warm Springs Press Releases

SURVIVAL SKILLS BEYOND WAR THREAT
Senior Airman Recognized by Warm Springs for His Will to Survive

An avid outdoorsman, Senior Airman James Hoke III cherishes his second chance at life, a second opportunity to watch his two daughters, Taylor Marie, 1½ and Riley Lynn, 3, grow up along side his wife Kelli.  Six months ago, Hoke was proudly serving our country in Iraq.

On Sunday, April 2, Hoke’s Special Task Force unit was seeking safety and shelter from constant attacks in Balad, Iraq.  They came across an abandoned building in a power plant.  As Hoke proceeded across a room he fell four stories into an open ventilation shaft.

It would take military personnel three hours to pull Hoke from the hole.  “I was in complete shock.  I later realized that I had 22 fractures just on the surface of my face, both my arms were broken, my femur and pelvis were also broken.”

Before arriving at Wilford Hall on April 11, medical personnel in Iraq and Germany worked to stabilize his condition.  “There were three attempts to get me out of Iraq to receive the immediate medical treatment I required, but constant attacks made it difficult,” said Hoke.

Unable to walk, eat or care for himself, Hoke was transferred to Wilford Hall to begin the numerous surgeries needed to repair the severe trauma to his face and body.

But it wasn’t long after his first reconstructive surgery that James was ready for the rehabilitation process and was transferred to Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital.  “During his stay here, his human spirit to survive shined,” said Lisa Masse, occupational therapist at the Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital. “He not only remained positive and hopeful to return home and somehow serve his country, but he also inspired other patients to try their best and keep hopeful.”

“His main motivator during his recovery was to be able to play with his girls again,” said Erin Stinson, recreational therapist at the Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital.  “He was very positive and grateful to be alive.”

On Wednesday, November 16, Hoke was inducted into the Warm Springs Wall of Fame for his incredible recovery.   The Warm Springs Wall of Fame recognizes exceptional individuals for their determination and motivation to their recovery.

A lover of nature, Hoke and his family recently visited the Grand Canyon for the first time as he and his wife celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary.  “When I was in the hole, all I could do was pray.  I was afraid I was never going to see my wife and kids again.  I wanted to see my family again,” said Hoke.

Over the past eight months, Hoke has undergone over 12 surgeries, two to reconstruct his facial features.  Currently, he is awaiting another reconstructive surgery to realign his cheek bones and upper jaw.   He knows that he still has many medical procedures to endure, but feels blessed to have another chance at life.  “’I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me.  Philippians 4: 13.’ I live by these words.”

Warm Springs has been providing rehabilitative care for patients with disabilities for more than 65 years. As a not-for-profit healthcare organization, Warm Springs is committed to caring for patients regardless of their ability to pay. Charitable gifts help Warm Springs continue this important mission.  For information on how you can help by making a charitable contribution this holiday season, please call (210) 829-0009.  Your assistance today will provide hope for patients in need tomorrow.