Evan Staton to perform in Orlando stroke recovery concert

Evan Staton lost the ability to move his left side after a series of medical complications in 2022. The former Division I water polo player is now preparing to perform in a public concert as part of his ongoing rehabilitation.

Staton, 25 at the time of his crisis, was diagnosed with testicular cancer shortly after graduating from Pepperdine University in 2022. Treatment for the cancer led to respiratory failure. He was placed on life support and intubated. While on life support, he suffered multiple strokes. His mother, Athena Staton, said the events left him paralyzed on his left side and affected his speech and vision.

The medical crisis interrupted his plans to return to Dr. Phillips High School in Central Florida to teach and coach. He had previously set swimming and water polo records at the school. Before his illness, he competed in Division I water polo at Pepperdine University in California. Staton is now cancer-free and engaged to be married next year.

He participates in Strokestra, a rehabilitation program led by professional musicians and AdventHealth clinicians. The program uses group performance and music to help survivors improve motor skills, speech, and social connections. Athena Staton noted that her son remains cognitively intact with a sharp memory and sense of humor. She said, "It's devastating, but the fact that he is cognitively intact, his memories are sharper than ever, his wit, he's still Evan."

Staton said returning to music helps him reconnect with his life before the strokes. He stated, "It reminds me of what I used to be." The program has grown from nine participants to nearly 50 since it began. Participation is free for patients.

The group will perform at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Steinmetz Hall in the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando. The public can attend the concert for free, though advance ticket reservation is encouraged. Staton described his current state by saying, "I'm happy now."