Actor and comedian Tracy Morgan visited Hackensack Meridian JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, returning to the place where he rebuilt his life after a 2014 car accident left him with a traumatic brain injury. During an emotional gathering of nurses, therapists, and staff, Morgan presented the Tracy Morgan Award for Rehabilitation Nursing Excellence to Gilbert Recto, RN, BSN, CRRN, Assistant Nurse Manager on the Brain Trauma Unit.

“Gilbert, thank you for everything – for what you do, and what all of you do, every single day,” Morgan told the team. “You are angels. Only angels can do what you do. You put your own lives aside every day and help other people. I love you all for that.”

Morgan has presented this annual nursing award at JFK Johnson since 2016, using the platform to highlight the specialized skills and dedication of rehabilitation nurses who care for patients with brain injuries.

A Personal Return to the Center for Brain Injuries

Before the award presentation, Morgan met with patients at the JFK Johnson Center for Brain Injuries — the same unit where he spent months relearning how to walk and talk after his 2014 accident.

“I remember you all took care of me, and told me everything is going to be all right,” Morgan recalled. “I didn’t believe it at the time. But you all were there. Every day you put other people’s suffering ahead of your own.”

His ongoing recovery, which allowed him to return to acting, producing, and stand-up comedy, remains a living testament to the work of rehabilitation clinicians and nurses.

Honoring Leadership, Compassion, and Clinical Excellence

Award recipient Gilbert Recto was recognized as a skilled clinician, a supportive mentor, and a leader on the Brain Trauma Unit.

“I am truly honored to receive this recognition,” Recto said. “Every day, I think about the patients who come here to rebuild their lives. I work so that all my patients can have the kind of outcomes that Tracy has had — to recover, return to their lives, and do what they love again.”

“Gilbert is a true role model for safe, effective, and compassionate nursing practice,” added Darla Harmer, MSN, RN, NE-BC, Director of Patient Care Services. “He ensures that all care delivered meets the highest standards of quality and safety.”

Moments of Hope With Current Patients

Morgan also spent time with patients currently undergoing rehabilitation, offering encouragement and solidarity.

He embraced Russell Steele, a 27-year-old from Browns Mills who is recovering from a severe brain injury sustained eight years ago. As Steele stood up from his wheelchair with visible effort, Morgan wrapped his arms around him. He also spoke to Steele’s mother, Denise.

“You are strong,” Morgan told her. “You are crying because you know you’re strong. You never give up. Families are always there for you. People who love you will never give up.”

Steele’s mother said the visit renewed hope: “He hopes to walk some day again.”

Morgan also met Malachi Gaddy, 23, from Plainfield, who sustained a brain injury and an amputation after being struck by a vehicle.

“Tracy Morgan is famous, but we shared similar experiences,” Gaddy said. “We were treated by the same doctors, the same therapists. Just like Tracy, I also believe in paying it forward. After you have gone through all this and survived, you want to help others.”

A Continued Legacy of Advocacy and Inspiration

Leaders at JFK Johnson say Morgan’s annual visits help patients and families see what recovery can look like.

“We are grateful to Tracy for the inspiration he continues to provide to our patients and for the light he shines on the compassion and specialized skill of our rehabilitation nurses,” said Sara Cuccurullo, M.D., Chair, Vice President, and Medical Director of the Institute.

Morgan’s ongoing career includes producing and starring in The Last O.G., an upcoming Tina Fey–produced series, The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, and the 2025 release of The Neighborhood on Paramount+.

Brian Greenwald, M.D., who oversaw Morgan’s rehabilitation, reflected on his continued success.

“It’s inspiring for all of us to see Tracy continuing to succeed. He continues with his humor and creativity and is accomplishing everything he wants to do in his life. That’s what we want for all our patients.”