Hernan Gonzales

College attending:


A talented soccer player, Hernan suffered a serious stroke and nearly died when he was twelve. After five brain surgeries and over a year of intensive rehabilitation where Hernan had to relearn how to speak, walk and read, he was ready to return to school.  His family provided incredible support, and his father even left his job so that he could stay with Hernan during the months of rehab in Charlottesville. In spite of all the obstacles, Hernan never faltered. Through sheer determination, he was able to learn how to write and do normal activities with his other hand. He learned to speak, read and write again and, in spite of all the physical setbacks, Hernan was able to graduate from High School with his class. While Hernan has recovered, his family’s finances are still suffering from the costs associated with his illness.  Hernan’s dream of playing soccer are gone forever, but his dream of college will be a reality because of  the generosity of the wonderful members of the Stuart Class of ’79.