Ten days after suffering severe burns from a garage gasoline fire, former late night host and car aficionado Jay Leno was released on Monday from Grossman Burn Center in greater Los Angeles.
Leno underwent surgical excision and skin grafting to promote healing and reduce risk of infection, as well as to remove some of the more seriously injured tissue.
Upon his discharge, doctors shared the following statement:
"Comedian Jay Leno was released from the Grossman Burn Center today."
"After a 10-day stay at the facility, Jay will receive follow-up care at the Grossman Outpatient Burn Clinic for burns to his face, chest and hands he received during a fire at his home garage."
"Jay would like to let everyone know how thankful he is for the care he received, and is very appreciative of all of the well wishes."
"He is looking forward to spending Thanksgiving with his family and friends and wishes everyone a wonderful holiday."
His physician Dr. Peter Grossman added:
"I am pleased with Jay's progress, and I am optimistic that he will make a full recovery."
Fans shared love and support for Leno, but one powerful message stood out from the rest.
Purple Heart recipient Sam Brown shared words of inspiration for Leno in a tweet captioned:
"Personal message to @jayleno or anyone going through an unexpected tragedy."
"Our scars are never wasted if we share them with the world."
During his 2008 deployment to Afghanistan, Brown's vehicle was struck by an IED that severely wounded him. Brown spent three years in rehabilitation and recovery.
In his video, Brown shared that about 500,000 Americans a year suffer from burns that require medical attention. While common, however, he stated that the injuries are also "life-changing."
Brown went on to share resources with Leno, as well as anyone going through a similar journey.
To Leno, Brown said:
"Jay, I know the pain you're in is excruciating. I know the care you're in is also world-class, top-notch."
"But I just want to let you know that no one can tell you what tomorrow looks like, especially when you have burns to the face and to the hands."
Brown emphasized that burns to the hands and face can be "a lot to wrap your head around and reconcile."
He continued:
"But I want you to know that you have lived a life of selflessness and service to so many people."
"You can continue to be an inspiration to people regardless of what this recovery looks like."
Brown also said that regardless of the change in appearance, "your heart doesn't have to change," and encouraged Leno to continue to be the man that the world knows, to be "lighthearted" and to "provide laughter."
Brown then addressed Leno's passion for cars, and assured him that "therapy sucks," but he will still be able to work on his cars.
"That passion can always be a passion."
He finished his message:
"Wishing you a speedy recovery, and know that you'll bring a lot of hope and inspiration to many in your journey."
"All the best. Take care."
You can watch Brown's full video below.
\u201cPersonal message to @jayleno or anyone going through an unexpected tragedy. \n\nOur scars are never wasted if we share them with the world. \u2764\ufe0f\u201d— Sam Brown (@Sam Brown) 1668733894
Many on Twitter commended Brown on his powerful message.
Very thoughtful video message, thank you for your service, and God bless.
— Brian (@B441144) November 18, 2022
Wow, that was a meaningful message to Jay. Thanks for that!
— Nathan La Rue (@natesland) November 18, 2022
You are an inspiration!
— Taylor Turi (@TaylorTuri) November 18, 2022
Great message 🙏🏻
— roberto marley (@flyfisherman485) November 18, 2022
What a kind act.
— AFraz (@Catheri01277174) November 18, 2022
Wow thank you for sharing this. Very inspirational 🙏🏻🍀🕊💛
— Christophe Delsol (@cdelsol) November 22, 2022
How inspiring, and how kind. The best to you both.
— Kristen (@Kristen4Laughs) November 22, 2022
Thank you for your service and for such beautiful words of encouragement and support!
🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏 pic.twitter.com/FkLVAJI4wU
— Bernie's Cozy Mittens🧤 😷 👠💄 (@mmtexas) November 22, 2022
Two days after the incident Leno share with People:
"I am okay. Just need a week or two to get back on my feet."
We wish Leno well in his recovery and hope that Brown's powerful words offer him comfort and inspiration.