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My visit to Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation

Posted by JLo
Tuesday, August 31, 2010

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As I approached the Kessler Institute on Tuesday I thought “is this the place that Christopher Reeve received rehabilitation?” Wow, now I am here to observe what he began for the disabled who have hope in the recovery process. . . even more amazing.

The NeuroRecovery Network (NRN) is set up in such a way that is inviting to those who go there. A very warm and motivated environment in which people who go there can feel “at home”. At home in the sense that they can work on themselves and know that all who surround them want the very best for them in their recovery process. A home in which there is a sense of peace while there is a nurturing environment in which to gain as much as possible while not being distracted. It is a team atmosphere that anyone who is striving for a positive common goal can work on in their own time without any pressure. Just do it and do it at one’s own pace.

This is how Michael's outlook is.. Michael (pictured) was injured in a skiing accident a couple of years ago. He has an incomplete C4 level of injury. He drives every day for 2 ½ hours each way from Pennsylvania. As I watched Michael using the “NRN” I sensed the strong determination and motivation. He was set up by his Kessler “team” on the harness while his legs were being moved on the treadmill. This movement is done for one hour with a break by the half hour. This was Michael’s 84th visit since April of 2010. Wow! What determination! He also has the support of his family and friends. We also met his Physical Therapist, Buffy, who has been with Michael since being at Kessler following the injury. Michael stated that “the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation with the help of Buffy are the driving forces that have brought him to this level of recovery”. Following the treadmill Michael proudly showed everyone how he can now stand on his own for about a minute at a time. He is also able to sit out of his wheelchair without falling from side to side. He has accomplished these two events in less than six months! In addition to this, he is also off of Baclofen which has been used for spasticity. This in itself is a miracle!

Overall, I am very impressed with the NeuroRecovery Network. It is one thing to read about this program or view it online. However, when one has the opportunity, as I did, to actually view it in person, one has a totally different outlook on the recovery process. This is the beginning of something greater within the recovery world. A piece of scientific research that participates in the big picture of hope. I am glad that I can share this experience with you. I hope that I have given more reason and inspiration to those and I hope that the dreams do come true one day.

Qualifications and more about the NRN are stated here.

Sonja
Assistant to Director
Quality of Life Grants

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Categories: Research, Quality of Life, Success Stories

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