Havlicek Builders helps create a healing home for an honored veteran with Gary Sinise Foundation

While serving in Iraq in 2007, U.S. Army CW2 (Ret.) Patrick Scrogin’s helicopter crashed and left him with fractured vertebrae and a crushed pelvis. After emergency surgery, Scrogin lost his left leg above the knee and had to endure some 60 surgeries, including 38 on his back. Despite challenges, he has had a successful career as an air traffic controller for the last 15 years.

The Gary Sinise Foundation was inspired by Patrick’s story and selected him to be a recipient of a specially adapted, smart home through the Foundation’s R.I.S.E (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) Program. Together, local architect Paul Lankenau and Havlicek Builders, a Chicago area design-build firm, collaborated on a customized residence for Patrick and his family in St. Charles, IL.

Architect Lankenau designed the exterior to harmonize with nature, incorporating rustic stone, timber accents and large windows to maximize views of woods and wildlife. The home’s “smart” technology enables control through one system, integrating lighting, blinds, heating/cooling at the touch of a button.

To manage Patrick’s disability, the home was outfitted with wide hallways, zero-threshold doors and adjusted counter heights. The bath, while attractive and serene, takes center stage in the Primary Bathroom, serving a key purpose. According to Patrick’s wife, Alexa, he soaks in the whirlpool tub three to four hours daily. As an air traffic controller, he is not permitted to use medication for pain, so soaking provides immense relief. “Hot water is my friend,” says Scrogin.

Havlicek designer Sandy Hagen was introduced to Hydro Systems through Michelle Marconi at Studio 41. Based on Patrick’s needs, a Monterey drop-in tub was chosen. “With Hydro Systems, we could decide where the whirlpool jets were placed in the tub to address Patrick’s back issues. said Havlicek. Additionally, the tub was equipped with the brand’s pioneering Cold Plunge feature,” Hydro Systems’ water-chilling system features advanced ozone and UV sanitization and can be integrated into any of Hydro Systems’ freestanding, alcove or drop-in tubs. The benefits of cold hydrotherapy are known to include accelerated post-workout muscle and joint recovery, reduced pain and inflammation and increased metabolism.

With Patrick’s daily exercise routine, the combination of a whirlpool and cold plunge and the benefit of having both options in one tub made it a win-win.

“This bath fulfills more than a daily need for Patrick. It’s not only essential for his physical routine, but also addresses his spiritual and emotional needs,” said Alexa. Patrick agreed, adding “I will live in this tub.”

For those with injuries or chronic conditions, hydrotherapy is an investment that enables care at home, empowering optimal health and well-being, any time, every day.