Teammates in Recovery

It takes a team to recover from a traumatic injury. A unified lineup of surgeons, healthcare professionals, family and friends to help navigate what is often a complex and challenging journey.

The road to recovery is tough. It demands a great deal of strength – and not just in the physical sense. Mental health and well-being also play a critical role, and finding emotional support is a key part of the process.

Teammates in Recovery is a campaign from DePuy Synthes, the Orthopaedics Company of Johnson & Johnson, that aims to create community and provide support for those who have experienced traumatic injury and the people who care for them.

Your Teammate in Recovery: Alex Smith

On Nov. 18, 2018, Alex Smith, former professional football player and the 2005 No. 1 draft pick, experienced a compound fracture to the tibia and fibula in his right leg during a game. Over the course of two years, Alex battled a grueling and complicated recovery journey. From learning to walk again to stepping back onto the football field, Alex credits a focus on his mental and emotional well-being as a key factor in his successful comeback.

We’re All in This Together

When the days are hard, and the gains are slow, it's important to remember: You are not alone. That's why Teammates in Recovery is here to remind you that other survivors are out there. Other people are on the comeback trail just like you.

You may have different experiences, but your stories carry the same grit and determination. The same resilience that can become fuel for the journey. Your stories can show others that we're all in this together. That we're all Teammates in Recovery.

Young woman supports her peer recovering from a tramatic injury

Share Your Story

Your story of traumatic injury recovery can help others along their physical and emotional journey.

Share your story with us today

Ask Alex Smith

Sharing stories rooted in inspiration, Alex Smith recounts the importance of acknowledging the emotional side of physical recovery and lessons he learned throughout his recovery.

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Alex Smith shares his perspective on how to keep fighting when times get tough while recovering from traumatic injury. Watch now.

Q&A

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Reflecting on your injury recovery journey, when did you start to feel like "I can do this?"

Alex Smith shares his perspective on how to keep fighting when times get tough while recovering from traumatic injury. Watch now.

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How did you approach your mental and emotional well-being throughout your journey, and how did it help in your recovery?

Alex Smith's approach to mental and emotional wellness helped play a role in his recovery from traumatic injury. Watch now.

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What advice do you have for people who have experienced a traumatic injury?

Alex Smith’s mindset shifts helped him during his injury recovery process. Watch now.

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What would you say to friends, family and caregivers who have a loved one recovering from an injury?

Alex Smith shares what his support system meant to him during his injury recovery journey. Watch now.

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Female counselor holding patient's hands supporting recovery

You Are Not Alone

Traumatic injury recovery is hard. But remember: You don't have to do it alone. There is a community of support to help you.

Learn more about available resources and support

Disclaimers

Alex Smith has been compensated for his time working on the Teammates in Recovery campaign. Thoughts and opinions expressed are his own and not reflective of DePuy Synthes or Johnson & Johnson. Individuals in images are portrayals and not real survivors of traumatic injuries.

It takes a team to recover from a traumatic injury. While everyone's injury and recovery are different, the need for support is a common thread, and that's why it's important to surround yourself with a strong and caring team led by a trusted healthcare professional. The material on this site is intended only as educational information, and it is not intended to be taken as medical advice. If you need medical advice or have questions about your treatment or condition, we urge you to speak with your healthcare professional. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911. Consult your doctor or contact a national crisis hotline if you need mental or emotional support.