Celebrity photographer Ronnie Wright’s determination and progress at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset underscore the importance of ongoing care
Somerville, NJ (October 29, 2026) – In recognition of World Stroke Day, RWJBarnabas Health is highlighting the importance of ongoing rehabilitation and support following a stroke through the experience of Ronnie Wright, a celebrity photographer and patient at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Somerset. Through physical and occupational therapy and participation in the hospital’s Stroke Support Group, Wright is working toward returning to the activities he loves while encouraging other stroke survivors along the way.
Wright, 68, of Somerset, spent 50 years photographing some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Dolly Parton, Madonna and Michael Jackson. A New York native, he photographed album covers and red-carpet movie premieres, sang in R&B and funk bands, and practiced martial arts.
Two and a half years ago, Wright felt “off” after work, but attributed it to long hours and job-related stress. Later that night, he got out of bed and found himself unsteady on his feet, bumping into walls. When he looked in the mirror, he noticed that his face appeared twisted. He called a friend and went to the nearest hospital, where doctors recognized that he was having a stroke and began immediate treatment.
The stroke affected Wright’s left side and his ability to speak. He underwent speech therapy to learn to talk again and continues to use a cane to walk and a brace on his left arm. Today, he attends physical and occupational therapy twice a week at RWJUH Somerset to build strength and improve movement in his left arm and leg.
With the help of RWJBarnabas Health therapists, Wright has incorporated martial arts into his rehabilitation exercises to improve his walking, posture and arm extension. His goals are personal: regain enough use of his left arm and hand to take photographs and swing a microphone on stage and return to long walks in New York’s Central Park.
“I’m determined to do it,” Wright said. “I’m not going to stop.”
His commitment extends beyond his therapy appointments. Although he tires more easily than before his stroke, Wright begins his daily exercises before getting out of bed each morning.
“Ronnie is the type of patient who leaves a lasting impression,” said Danielle Wassum, Wright’s physical therapist at RWJUH Somerset. “His determination and willingness to keep pushing forward even when things are difficult is truly inspiring. His positive attitude is infectious, and it has been rewarding to watch his progress. His resilience and dedication are truly something to be proud of.”
Finding Encouragement Through Shared Experiences
RWJUH Somerset facilitates a monthly Stroke Support Group, where stroke survivors, family members and caregivers share experiences and find encouragement. Wright invites fellow patients to attend, extending the same support he has received throughout his recovery.
“We all talk and help each other,” Wright said.
At a recent meeting at the hospital’s Steeplechase Cancer Center, Wright and his partner, Nichelle Odetayo, participated in stretching exercises led by physical therapist Dianne Alfieri and helped prompt a discussion about caregiver stress and the frustrations stroke survivors can experience. Wright encouraged attendees to stay positive and focused on their goals.
“There’s no stopping us. We’re all going to do this,” he told the group.
Wright credits the rehabilitation team and support group at RWJUH Somerset with helping him stay motivated as he works toward greater independence.
“This is a fantastic hospital,” Wright said. “It’s a great family here.”
RWJUH Somerset’s stroke care services include emergency care, teleneurology services, a dedicated neuroscience inpatient unit with its own rehabilitation gym, and speech, occupational and physical therapy. These services support patients through treatment and the ongoing work of recovery.
The hospital’s Stroke Support Group meets on the first Thursday of each month from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Steeplechase Cancer Center, 30 Rehill Ave., Somerville. The group is open to stroke survivors, their families and caregivers. To register for the next meeting, call 908-685-2814.
For more information about stroke services at RWJUH Somerset, visit www.rwjbh.org/neuro.
About Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset
Located in Somerville, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Somerset, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, is a nationally accredited, 343-bed regional hospital providing comprehensive emergency, medical/surgical, behavioral health and rehabilitative services to central New Jersey residents. As a designated teaching hospital of Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, the hospital maintains a family medicine residency program with 21 residents.
RWJUH Somerset has earned significant national recognition for clinical quality and patient safety including the prestigious Magnet® Award for Nursing Excellence. As the first hospital in New Jersey to offer primary health care services for the LGBTQIA community, RWJUH Somerset has been honored as a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality by the Human Rights Campaign.
The Steeplechase Cancer Center at RWJUH Somerset has been designated as a Comprehensive Community Cancer Center by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer. RWJBarnabas Health and RWJUH Somerset in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey - the state's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center - bring a world class team of researchers and specialists to fight alongside you, providing close-to-home access to the latest treatment and clinical trials.
About RWJBarnabas Health
RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey's largest and most comprehensive academic health system, caring for more than five million people annually. Nationally renowned for quality and safety, the system includes 14 hospitals and 9,000 affiliated physicians integrated to provide care at more than 700 patient care locations.
RWJBarnabas Health partners with its communities to build and sustain a healthier New Jersey. It provides patient-centered care in a compassionate manner and is the state's largest safety-net provider and leader in addressing the social determinants of health. RWJBarnabas Health provides food to the hungry, housing for the homeless and economic opportunities to those most vulnerable.
RWJBarnabas Health's commitment to enhancing access to care includes a transformative partnership with Rutgers University, including the Rutgers Cancer Institute – the state's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center – and Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
RWJBarnabas Health is among New Jersey's largest private employers, with more than 45,000 employees, contributing more than $7 billion to the state economy every year. For more information, visit www.RWJBH.org.
Contact: Carrie Cristello
carrie.cristello@rwjbh.org