From Immobility to Independence: Jon Dasher’s Brain Tumor Recovery

When Jon Dasher arrived at Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital – University Campus in early July, he couldn’t walk, talk or even sit up on his own. Just weeks earlier, Jon had undergone his second brain tumor removal surgery, a procedure that left him with significant swelling and a long road to recovery. But thanks to the dedicated care of the Brooks team, Jon’s story is one of resilience, determination and remarkable progress. 

Brain Tumor Diagnosis  

Jon’s journey with brain tumors began unexpectedly in 2020 when subtle changes in his behavior signaled that something was wrong. His wife noticed that he wasn’t acting like himself. He spoke less, often answering questions with only “yes” or “no,” and his tone of voice seemed off. Concerned but unsure of the cause, they decided to visit the emergency room.  

It was there that a scan revealed the shocking diagnosis: Jon had a brain tumor. At just 54 years old, this news came as a complete surprise, as Jon had shown no other major symptoms, such as headaches or physical discomfort, typically associated with such a condition. After undergoing surgery to remove the tumor, Jon made a swift recovery and even returned to work.  

However, in 2025, during a routine scan, doctors discovered that the tumor had returned. This time, the aftermath of surgery was more challenging, leaving Jon unable to perform even the most basic tasks like walking, talking or eating on his own.  

The Road to Recovery: Arriving at Brooks Rehabilitation 

After Brooks Rehabilitation was strongly recommended as the next step in his recovery, Jon and his wife made the trip from their home in Statesboro, Georgia, to Jacksonville, Florida. Upon arrival, Jon required a two-person assist with a Hoyer lift just to get out of bed. His wife recalls, “He could barely say his name or birthday. It was a very difficult time.” 

Under the care of brain rehabilitation team, Jon embarked on a challenging but transformative journey. The first three weeks were slow, with minimal visible progress, but the team remained steadfast in their efforts.  

Through a combination of physical therapy to rebuild his strength and mobility, occupational therapy to restore his ability to perform daily tasks and speech therapy to improve his communication and cognitive skills, Jon began to make remarkable strides.  

Jon’s physical therapist, Schuyler White, recalls when she first met Jon.  

“Jon’s progress at Brooks can be summed up in one phrase: ‘good things take time,’” she reflects. “From the moment he arrived, I knew his journey would unfold as a blessing in disguise. His determination and openness to working with his therapy team paved the way for his success. I can’t take credit for the incredible progress he’s made or the amazing things he’ll achieve in the future, I was simply a helping hand in his story.” 

A Turning Point 

Around the three-week mark, Jon’s progress took a dramatic turn. The swelling in his brain began to subside, and he started responding to therapy. 

“Skylar was amazing,” Jon’s wife shared. “She pushed him in the best way possible, always positive and encouraging. She explained everything and made sure I was involved in the process.” 

Jon went from being unable to sit up to walking without a walker by the end of his six-week stay. His cognitive improvements were equally impressive, progressing from a score of 5 to a perfect 30 on the orientation scale.  

“The transformation was incredible,” his wife said. “The care and dedication of the entire team were beyond anything we could have hoped for.” 

A New Chapter 

Jon was discharged on August 8 and returned home to Statesboro, where he continued outpatient therapy. Today, he’s walking two and a half miles every morning and preparing to return to work.  

“If you talked to him now, you’d never know what he’s been through,” his wife said proudly. 

Jon’s journey isn’t over as he’s set to begin six weeks of preventative radiation and chemotherapy in September, but his progress so far is a testament to his determination and the exceptional care he received at Brooks Rehabilitation.  

“I can’t say enough good things about Brooks and the care I received by the entire team. From the doctors to the nurses and therapists, everyone played a vital role in my recovery,” Jon shared. “They gave us hope when I needed it most.” 

How Brooks Can Help

If you or a loved one is facing challenges following a stroke, brain injury, or other neurological condition, Brooks Rehabilitation’s experts can help.

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