Community rallies behind Round Rock man in extended hospital stay
ROUND ROCK, Texas – In a remarkable display of resilience and the power of community, Terry Johnston, a man born with a curvature in his spine that left him paralyzed from the waist down, has found solace and support during his prolonged hospital stay. Following a complex surgery, Johnston has been under medical care for approximately 17 months, enduring moments of despair and questioning the purpose of his prolonged confinement. However, his journey took a turn when he moved into a room at Cornerstone Specialty Hospital in Round Rock earlier this year.
The months spent in isolation had taken a toll on Johnston’s mental and emotional well-being. “He was just not coming out of this really depressive state being in here for nine months, every day by himself except for his brother and I,” explains Melissa Strong Jackson, TJ’s devoted mother. The lack of human interaction weighed heavily on Johnston’s spirits, prompting Jackson to make a plea on Facebook for visitors who could bring a glimmer of joy to her son’s life.
The response to Jackson’s heartfelt appeal was overwhelming. In a heartwarming display of compassion and camaraderie, a multitude of individuals answered the call, providing the much-needed support that Johnston had longed for. “Support is everything,” affirms Amanda Mayes, an old friend of TJ’s. She continues, “You can only do so much on your own. Like I said earlier, it’s hard sometimes to ask for help because I think it’s a prideful thing in us, but her reaching out has made such a difference in her world, his world, our worlds.”
Visitors arrived bearing gifts and gestures of kindness, ranging from snacks and coffee to personalized Houston Astros memorabilia and even haircuts. The act of selflessness was not lost on the beneficiaries of these acts of kindness. Tabitha Dowell, one of the visitors, expressed her belief in the power of community: “I just heard a mom that was in need, and that’s what community is called to do.” Each person who crossed Johnston’s threshold brought their own unique brand of positivity, providing much-needed laughter and happiness to uplift his spirits. “Laughter and happiness and knowing that someone actually cares has meant everything,” says Jackson, TJ’s grateful mother.
Despite the challenges he faces, Johnston remains resilient and optimistic, grateful for the newfound mental fortitude inspired by the visitors. “It means the world to me,” he acknowledges. “Like, you guys, you don’t know how much of a mental toughness you’ve put on my head, and I hope to spend many years of friendship with each of you.” However, it is important to note that Johnston’s journey to recovery is far from over, and he still has a long road ahead before he can finally return home.
The outpouring of support and the willingness of strangers to extend a helping hand to a person in need is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. The heartwarming story of Terry Johnston serves as a poignant reminder that genuine connections and acts of kindness can make a world of difference to those facing adversity.
For those who are interested in supporting Johnston or wish to reach out to him, visitors are still welcome. You can contact Johnston’s family at [email protected].
