Jerome Roberson

This past March, Jerome Roberson, a beloved member of the MLK choir had his life turned upside down. A former military man and longtime performer, was rehearsing with the choir for their annual event when something felt very off. Always in tune with his body, he decided to take a break, hoping the strange feeling would pass. But when he tried to stand, his entire right side went numb. 

Quickly, the group around him sprang into action, carrying him out outside and realizing he needed immediate medical attention. “I began to pray for myself,” said Roberson. “But I knew it was something unlike anything I’ve ever felt before. So, when they came back in, I went to stand and my entire right side was just gone. “

He was rushed to Methodist Hospital | Metropolitan, where doctors confirmed he had suffered a stroke.

The days that followed were some of the hardest of his life. At first, he could barely speak—just his name, and nothing more. Simple questions about his birthday or the president drew blanks. But he was determined not just to recover, but to return to the life he loved: performing and bringing joy through music. “For the next few weeks, my goal was not just to get better, but to get back to where I was before – stronger than ever,” said Roberson.

Physical therapy was grueling, but he poured everything into it. He relearned how to walk, speak, and use his hands. One of the hardest moments he recalls was sitting in his hospital room, staring at a keyboard he couldn’t play. For someone who had spent over 50 years at the piano, it was devastating.

His therapists encouraged him to make it a goal: before leaving, he’d play a song again. Day by day, he worked on his motor skills. Each note was a small victory, and before long, he was playing for the nurses and therapists who had supported him. The music felt like a miracle—a reminder of how far he had come.

At the hospital’s rehab reunion, he shared his story, reflected on the journey, and played several songs for all to sing along to. “Recovery is a blessing not everyone gets,” he said. “I’m grateful I can live independently, cook my own meals, and still perform. That day, I wasn’t alone—I was surrounded by people who cared. That’s something I’ll never take for granted.”

Now, nearly a year later, he’s been practicing tirelessly to perform with the MLK choir once again at this year’s MLK March. For him, it’s not just about singing – it’s about celebrating life, resilience, and the joy of sharing his gift with others.