Ashland School Bus Driver Survives Serious Illness

JoAnn Fugett beats the odds after 47-day hospital stay.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:36pm

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A ghostly, translucent x-ray photograph revealing the complex internal structure of a school bus, symbolizing the resilience and essential role of school transportation workers.An x-ray view of a school bus chassis highlights the resilience of essential transportation workers like JoAnn Fugett, who overcame a life-threatening illness to return to her job.Huntington Today

JoAnn Fugett, a bus driver for the Ashland school district, is celebrating her recovery after a life-threatening illness in early 2025 that left her with a 5% chance of survival. Fugett spent 47 days in the hospital and rehabilitation facility before regaining her ability to function.

Why it matters

Fugett's story highlights the resilience of essential workers like school bus drivers, who play a critical role in their communities. Her recovery also underscores the importance of access to quality healthcare, especially for those facing serious illnesses.

The details

In January 2025, Fugett was suddenly struck by an unspecified illness that required a 47-day hospital stay at UK King's Daughters and Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Huntington, West Virginia. Doctors initially gave her less than a 5% chance of surviving the ordeal.

  • In January 2025, Fugett was hospitalized with a serious illness.
  • Fugett spent 47 days in the hospital and rehabilitation facility.
  • One year later, in April 2026, Fugett is celebrating her recovery.

The players

JoAnn Fugett

A bus driver for the Ashland school district who survived a life-threatening illness in 2025.

UK King's Daughters

A hospital in Huntington, West Virginia where Fugett received treatment.

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital

A rehabilitation facility in Huntington, West Virginia where Fugett received care after her hospital stay.

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The takeaway

Fugett's remarkable recovery after facing such dire odds underscores the resilience of essential workers and the importance of access to quality healthcare, especially for those battling serious illnesses.