Through steady action, we assist and support families of young stroke victims.
Helping Families Stay Strong
We stand proudly united as one. Our goal is to serve and support single-parent families that are experiencing the strain of caring for impaired children. Together, we’re part of something larger and extraordinary. With our combined efforts, we can help provide a path that allows these families to focus on spending quality time with their loved ones, by minimizing financial stress.
His Story. Our Why.
Chris Oats was just 20 years old when he suffered a stroke in May of 2020. He is a linebacker at the University of Kentucky where he was making a name for himself on and off the field. As a sophomore in 2019, Chris played in 12 games and had two starting assignments for the Wildcats. He ranked fifth on the team in tackles with 46, and he added 2.5 tackles for loss, one pass breakup, and one forced fumble. He is majoring in community and leadership development, with plans to one day become a sports analyst. When asked to describe himself in three words for an article, Chris wrote “I’m kind-hearted, hardworking, and determined.” These words describe him perfectly. Chris is now using that work ethic and determination in his rehabilitation as he works to regain his strength and mobility.
With support from many doctors, nurses, family, friends, teammates, and the Big Blue Nation, Chris is getting stronger every day! Because of his amazing support system, Chris and his family want to pay it forward to other families in similar situations who may not have the means necessary to help their loved ones.
Chris lives in Cincinnati where he attended Winton Woods High School He is the son of Kem Gamble and his siblings are Aliyah, Ke’airra, Kelain, Willie and Mikele.
Making a difference one family at a time
Having seen first-hand the struggles and heartaches the Oats family has had to endure since Chris’ stroke in 2020, I knew I wanted to be a part of something that could help others so they wouldn’t have to go through the same thing. This foundation is set up to do just that and we are excited to see what our future holds.
Susan Lax22 Oats Strong Foundation | President
The Oats Strong Foundation is an organization I’m happy to endorse because it’s really going to help families in need. I didn’t realize all the help Chris and his family would need until we walked through this journey with them. They handle all of the medical care, medicine, rehabilitation, doctors visits and just everyday life. It’s a lot for a family, especially a single-parent home. This foundation will help families relieve some of that stress.
Mark StoopsUniversity of Kentucky Head Football Coach
Together, we’re part of something larger and extraordinary.
The stroke survivor’s family is often the most important source of long-term support during recovery and rehabilitation. But who takes care of the caregiver?