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Craig Northcutt proudly holds his Stroke Hero Award trophy. Photo provided | Choctaw Nation
Craig Northcutt, Choctaw Nation tribal member and associate, suffered a stroke when he was thrown from his ATV 12 years ago. American Stroke Association (ASA) is honoring him this May for Stroke Awareness Month for his dedication to educating, inspiring, and bringing awareness about strokes.
“It is an honor and a blessing to receive the 2024 Survivor Hero award. First and foremost, I thank God for granting the strength and ability to overcome a traumatic brain injury and an ischemic stroke,” said Northcutt. “I’d like to dedicate this honor and inspire all the people who have or are recovering from a life-changing situation or circumstance from any type of stroke to keep walking and moving forward.”
The ATV accident left Northcutt with a traumatic brain injury that led to an ischemic stroke, posing a severe threat to his life. His friend James, who was with him, was able to call 911 and perform CPR until paramedics arrived and Northcutt was airlifted to the hospital, where he received an emergency craniotomy.
Despite facing immense physical and cognitive challenges in the aftermath of the accident, Northcutt underwent intensive neurorehabilitation and learned to walk and talk again. He has not only returned to his work with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, where he assists tribal members in developing career skills and finding employment, he actively advocates for ATV safety, emphasizing the importance of wearing helmets to prevent lifealtering injuries.
“I am thrilled and overjoyed for Craig as he receives this welldeserved recognition,” said Gary Batton, Chief of the Choctaw Nation. “His resilience and dedication are truly inspiring, and his journey serves as a shining example of the indomitable spirit of the Choctaw people. We are immensely proud of Craig and the impact he continues to make within our community and beyond.”
The ASA began in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association which is celebrating 100 years this year. The organization encourages everyone to learn F.A.S.T. (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) to save lives. For more about the Stroke Hero Awards, visit ASA’s website.