It was a typical day for “John” and although he had a light headache, he took an aspirin and went to the gym anyway. As he was walking on the treadmill he felt dizzy, so he stepped off. Suddenly, he passed out.
The paramedics came within minutes and he was rushed to the emergency department. He awoke in the ambulance with the realization he could not move his right side and could not speak. John was told he’d had a hemorrhagic stroke that affected the right side of his body and he was admitted to Martin Memorial for continued care.
When John awoke the next day, he knew his life would never be the same. He was still unable to move his right arm and leg; he couldn’t understand or formulate speech and was unable to see from the right eye.
It was apparent that John was going to need to relearn the skills of everyday living. Physical, occupational and speech therapy began almost immediately in the hospital setting to evaluate his needs. John made gains every day and was soon able to sit on the edge of the bed and feed himself. After a while, he was able to stand with a walker, take a few steps and communicate his needs verbally.
John still has more work ahead of him as he continues rehabilitation outside the hospital. But without the team of skilled rehabilitation team members who helped him immediately after his initial treatment, John would not have progressed as well as he has.
Unfortunately, John’s case is not unique – stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in the United States. But with the proper treatment and care following a stroke, patients can continue to live happy, productive lives.
--Tara Anstensen
Physical Therapy Assistant
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