Brian was admitted to a local hospital with a spinal cord injury. After surgeons repaired his T8 and T9 vertebrae, he was told walking again may not be possible. A week after surgery, Brian’s mother was referred to Nexus Children’s Hospital by many people.
She explained, “I didn’t know where to go or where was the best place for my son. Everything I went through was so new to me. We chose Nexus because it was the best option.”
Brian arrived at Nexus Children’s Hospital and spent the next three months advancing through his customized rehabilitation plan. When he began, Brian was unable to move his legs. He participated in physical and occupational therapy, forming a close bond with his therapists who helped him relearn how to walk on his own.
“I didn’t have balance, and when I was finally able to stand up on my own, I thought, ‘I’m really going somewhere after they never told me I’d walk again.’ It was awesome,” he shared.
After discharge, Brian continued with outpatient therapy to further regain his strength and mobility. Leaving the hospital to reunite with his family and friends was a daunting task, but one Brian was excited for.
“I was very nervous,” he said. “But Nexus definitely prepared me, and once I was out, it felt like a dream.”
Since being home, Brian has graduated from his walker to being able to walk short distances with only a cane. He enjoys being outside again, spending time with family and friends, and watching his cousins skateboard.
Brian remains positive about his rehabilitation journey. When asked what his advice would be for other patients at Nexus Children’s Hospital he said, “I would tell them not to let it affect you as much as you think it will. Everything will be okay. Keep your head up and don’t let anything get you down.”
