Detroit native Lamont Causey has dedicated much of his life to serving others. With a degree in child psychology from Wayne State University, he spent more than 25 years working for the State of Michigan in various roles, including Social Security administration and foster care services.
However, his passion extends beyond the state level. Locally, he has been a devoted advocate for the Clairmount neighborhood, which has been home to his family for generations.
Located near Gordon Park, the epicenter of the 1967 Detroit riots, Clairmount has long been a symbol of both struggle and resilience. Lamont, who was just 5 years old during the uprising, has spent his adult life working to revitalize the neighborhood that shaped him.
Health setback temporarily pauses advocacy work
Despite his dedication, Lamont’s efforts were interrupted by serious health challenges. Living with diabetes and asthma, he suffered a mini stroke at 36. Although he had no lasting symptoms at the time, a more severe stroke in 2019 changed everything.
“It affected my right side,” Lamont said. “After leaving the local hospital, I spent months in a nursing rehabilitation facility where I was not able to walk, had trouble swallowing and speaking, and basically was not functional for one year.”
The stroke forced him to step away from both his professional career and community advocacy, which are central elements of his identity.
Determination to recover
Lamont turned to the experts at Henry Ford Hospital for care and recovery. Under the guidance of his longtime primary care physician, Dr. Cynthia Cohen, he followed a comprehensive care plan focused on managing his diabetes and asthma while also undergoing extensive physical therapy.
“Mr. Causey has been very diligent and enthusiastic in following his care plan, which has been the key to his success,” Cohen said.
In addition to physical therapy, Lamont received Botox treatments from Dr. Maria Humayun, a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation. These injections helped reduce the muscle stiffness often experienced by stroke survivors, which aided in his mobility recovery.
“We’re able to meet the needs of patients like Mr. Causey with our Comprehensive Care Center, a multidisciplinary program focused on caring for patients who may require more resources,” Cohen said.
Thanks to the team at Henry Ford, Lamont has made incredible progress.
“I’ve come from not walking at all to using a wheelchair, and I can now walk with a cane, thanks to the wonderful rehabilitation team at my hospital, Henry Ford Hospital. It has been the hospital I have relied on for care throughout my life, and I have immense gratitude for everyone on the team,” he said proudly.
Finding purpose in stroke support and advocacy
Beyond physical recovery, Lamont found strength and community through the Henry Ford Stroke Survivorship Group. There, he connected with fellow survivors and gained access to resources that helped him navigate life post-stroke.
Inspired to give back, he organized a community health event at Gordon Park focused on stroke awareness, particularly within the African American community, which faces a higher incidence and mortality rate from stroke than any other racial group.
Recognized with the Spirit of Detroit Award
Lamont’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed. His work to revitalize Gordon Park -- including bringing concerts to the area, building a children’s playscape and advocating for safer, more walkable streets -- earned recognition from city leaders.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and City Council President Mary Sheffield honored him with the Spirit of Detroit Award for outstanding community service.
“I am honored to receive this award and plan to continue to do everything in my surrounding community to raise awareness about the need to revitalize the community and improve stroke awareness,” Lamont said. “It’s been a long road, but thanks to my hospital, which I proudly say is Henry Ford Hospital, and the care team, I’m giving myself an A+ in my journey to restore my health.”
His supporters agree. Taylor Pardo, stroke navigator at Henry Ford, praised Lamont’s devotion.
“Lamont is a dedicated member of our monthly stroke survivor meetings. By sharing his story with a positive outlook, he has been able to inspire and help others in the group find hope and stay optimistic about their recovery,” Pardo said. “He is a passionate advocate for stroke prevention and is working to educate and support his community, making a difference in the lives of those around him.”
Click or tap here to learn more about stroke prevention, treatment and care at Henry Ford Health.