Andrew Wolfe, one of two West Virginia National Guard members shot in Washington, D.C. in November, continues to make progress in his recovery, according to an update shared by his mother on Saturday.
Wolfe has shown steady improvement over the past six weeks while receiving care at an in-patient rehabilitation facility and is now preparing to transition into a residential rehab program expected to last between eight and 12 weeks, his mother, Melody Wolfe, wrote in a social media post.
Melody said her son is scheduled to undergo a cranioplasty in early March to reconstruct his skull, a procedure that should help him gain greater independence and support further recovery.
Andrew is currently experiencing aphasia, a language disorder that affects communication. Melody explained that while he understands what others are saying, he struggles to find the words he wants to speak.
She noted, however, that his progress has been remarkable compared to the beginning of his rehabilitation, when he was non-verbal.
“So, in just a little over two months since the attack, he’s already working beyond the expectations that were anticipated,” Melody said.
She added that Andrew is now able to FaceTime her, recall and discuss past memories, laugh, and steadily gain independence, all while spending time with family and friends.
“We know there are some hurdles ahead but we can see some light at the end of the tunnel,” Melody said. “God has been so faithful to our family and has continued to bless us in so many ways. We have seen the best in humanity and we will certainly give back when it’s our turn. Thank you for continued prayers, support, and kindness as they do not go unnoticed.”
The 24-year-old was shot while on deployment in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 26 during an attack that killed fellow West Virginia National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom. Wolfe was hospitalized in critical condition and underwent emergency surgery following the shooting.
After being released from the hospital in D.C., Wolfe moved to a rehabilitation facility in December, where he has remained since. The suspect in the attack, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, faces multiple federal felony charges and pleaded not guilty during his first court appearance on Dec. 2.