Roanoke shooting victim discharged from hospital

ROANOKE (WSLS) – The only survivor in last month’s deadly shooting at Smith Mountain Lake shares some encouraging news.

Vicki Gardner was discharged from Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital on Monday. She will continue her treatment at home.

“Good News! Vicki’s Home! Vicki has been released from Carilion Memorial Hospital. We are thrilled to have her home but she does face a long recuperation time to be back at 100%. Vicki wants to thank all of you for your support and prayers and for respecting her privacy as she continues her journey back to full health. She will make a statement to the media as soon as she has had time to rest up and adjust to her new routine.”

On Monday, Vicki posted a message in her own words on a Facebook page set up to document her recovery. 

She said, “Every day I wake to renewing strength and optimism. I have no thoughts of ‘why me’ but a feeling of what can be done to unite our great community and leave a lasting positive legacy in place of this tragedy. It’s obvious that there is much to be done. As I re-focus on things of importance I’m filled with new-found energy and the enthusiasm to make a difference. We at Smith Mountain Lake will not be defined by an act of violence. We are ‪#‎SMLSTRONG‬.”

Over the weekend, the page posted that due to the nature and severity of Vicki’s injury, her limited strength and possibility for virus exposure, she was unable to accept visitors. Vicki’s progress has been a bit bumpy but all are optimistic of a complete recovery.

“Your humor, notes of encouragement, support and prayer are daily treasures. We will keep the community informed on her progress,” said Vicki’s Recovery page.