Scott Buksa built a successful career through hard work and leadership. As President of Acme Car Shipping, he led the company’s growth and built a life centered around his family. With his wife Patti, they raised their children and they began enjoying a new chapter as grandparents. 

On July 21, 2023, Scott’s life changed suddenly. 

Working from home that morning, Scott felt the worst headache he had ever experienced, along with pain in his left leg. Patti knew something was wrong when he confused the word “leg” with “bed.”   

“I knew it was a stroke immediately,” Patti said. She happened to be at home recovering from foot and ankle surgeries. 

She called for help and 45 minutes later, Scott underwent a CT scan. Doctors confirmed he suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. He was intubated and airlifted to a trauma center in Plano, where an external ventricular drain (EVD) was placed to relieve pressure on his brain. Scott was given a 50% chance of survival and does not remember the first 17 days of his hospitalization. Because of the quick response, Scott was treated within four hours of symptom onset, which helped support his survival. He spent 21 days in the neuro ICU, many in critical condition, before transitioning to a rehabilitation hospital and later being discharged to home health care. 

Scott began the process of relearning fundamental skills and how to walk again. However, the stroke resulted in aphasia, affecting both communication and cognition. He had difficulty finding the right words, often using the wrong word or becoming stuck on a single word or phrase. Names of people, including family members, were difficult to remember. 

Patti stayed by his side every day throughout his recovery and discovered Centre for Neuro Skills (CNS). In September 2023, Scott began Day Treatment at CNS’ Dallas clinic. At the start of therapy, he tested at a third grade reading level, and communication was frustrating. Simple words, like fork or spoon, were incredibly difficult, and Scott’s emotions were a roller-coaster facing these new challenges. But his goal was clear from the beginning: He wanted to return to work. 

Scott received therapy five days a week at CNS, where he focused on rebuilding cognitive skills, speech, and confidence.  Consistent therapy and daily repetition gradually improved his ability to express himself and engage in conversation. Talking with other patients played an important role, helping him stay motivated, and he saw progress over time. 

By the end of his program, Scott reached his cognitive therapy goals. He remembers a special moment when his cognitive rehabilitation therapist, Debbie, and a group of therapists clapped in celebration that he had completed all levels of the cognition module. Scott was discharged from CNS on January 29, 2024.  

The following month, he returned to work as Managing Partner, allowing him to stay involved in his business while continuing to recover. The transition required patience as he relearned aspects of the business and adjusted to a new pace. He also returned to driving independently, traveling with his family, and resumed activities like golf. 

“I went through every emotion,” Scott said. “But as I started understanding things again and connecting with people, it brought me so much joy.” 

Scott now approaches life with a deeper sense of gratitude, appreciation, and connection. He makes a point to express appreciation more often and support others in meaningful ways. He makes regular visits to the hospital, EMS team, and CNS staff who played a role in his recovery. 

On June 1, Scott retired and is now working toward building a platform to share his story and provide assistance to other stroke survivors. His journey has reshaped not only how he works, but how he lives and connects with the people around him.