LEXINGTON, KY (LEX 18) — Hours before kickoff against Ole Miss, Chris Oats made an emotional return to the Bluegrass State, marking another milestone in his remarkable recovery.

"It feels like family and I love being back," Oats said.

Oats suffered a stroke at just 20 years old, setting him on a challenging path to recovery. Five years later, joined by his mother Kemberly and cousin Gianni, he shared a positive update on his progress.

"I feel way better mentally and physically. I lost a lot of weight. I'm just better mentally," Oats said.

For Oats' family, the University of Kentucky community has provided unwavering support throughout their journey.

"It's family to us here. We haven't been here in a year and a half, so it feels like when we come back here, we pick up right where we le

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