For displaying exceptional strength and courage during his recovery from stroke and inspiring others along the way, Kirk Douglas will receive National Rehabilitation Hospital’s 2003 Victory Award® on November 18 at Washington’s Omni Shoreham Hotel. Former Victory Award® recipient Patricia Neal, who co-starred with Douglas in the film In Harm’s Way, will present this year’s award along with the Chairman of the Motion Picture Association of America Jack Valenti.

In a career marked by playing heroic characters, it was Douglas’ two films made after his stroke that demonstrate the true strength of his own character. Diamonds and It Runs in the Family illustrate that with the help of medical rehabilitation, including intensive speech therapy in Douglas’ case, there is life after stroke. “Our patients can look to someone like Kirk Douglas and see hope for the future,” commented Dr. Brendan Conroy, director of the NRH Stroke Recovery Program.

The 2003 Gala Auction & Victory Awards® is under the gracious patronage of H.E., The Ambassador of Finland and Mrs. Valtasaari and are co-chaired by Mrs. Lyn Schroeder and Mrs. Shawnda Wilkinson.