Fargo, N.D. – After a lengthy stay at Craig Hospital and subsequent rehab, North Dakota Air National Guard veteran Colin Bales and his wife Amy are set to return home to Fargo on Nov. 10. The couple announced the milestone on social media, thanking the staff at Craig Hospital for their “knowledge, compassion, advocacy and dedication” throughout Colin’s recovery.
Spinal cord injury and the road to recovery
Colin, a native of Park Rapids, suffered a spinal cord injury on July 4 while at his family’s lake home. The injury required intensive medical treatment, leading the family to relocate to Craig Hospital, a nationally recognized spinal cord injury center, for several months of acute care and rehabilitation.
During his time at Craig, Colin participated in a comprehensive program that included physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling. Family members reported steady progress, noting that the multidisciplinary team helped him regain strength and independence.
Transition back to Fargo
The Fargo VA has already begun coordinating Colin’s post‑hospital care. Plans include outpatient therapies at PAM Health, a local provider specializing in veteran rehabilitation services. In addition, the Bales family secured a new apartment that they describe as “Remi‑approved,” a nod to their beloved dog.
For the first time in months, the family will be reunited under one roof, allowing Amy, Colin, and Remi to adjust together to a new normal. The couple asked the Fargo community to continue sending prayers, love, and positive thoughts as they navigate this transition.
Community support and next steps
Local residents have responded with an outpouring of support, offering meals, transportation assistance, and visits. The Bales family expressed gratitude for the generosity, emphasizing how vital community encouragement has been to their morale.
Looking ahead, Colin’s care plan focuses on continued physical therapy, occupational therapy, and regular check‑ins with his VA care team. The goal is to maximize his functional independence and quality of life while integrating back into the Fargo community.
As the Bales family embarks on this new chapter, their story highlights the importance of specialized medical care, veteran support services, and a caring community rallying around one of its own.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
