James' Story - A Stroke Day Program Participant

Participant

He was hospitalized for 6 weeks and then received a few months of outpatient speech, physical & occupational therapy at the hospital before his insurance coverage ran out. He still required significant therapy, but needed something his family could afford. That's when he found Easterseals Colorado and started the Rehabilitation Services & Stroke Day Program in January of 2014. Thanks to generous supporters like you, James has continued to make significant progress, including getting out of a wheelchair and learning to walk again.

The Stroke Day Program is the next step after release from acute care to continue recovery; especially for those who are uninsured or underinsured. This program is a functional rehabilitative day program that offers case management, daily physical, occupational, speech, cognitive and warm water therapies all in one location. While James is at Easterseals, his family receives respite, or a break from continual caregiving.

Most recently, James was able to remove his shoulder brace and has greatly improved his arm movement due to the therapy he receives at the Stroke Day Program. He also started leading a weekly support group with fellow Stroke Day Program participants, where a variety of topics are discussed with the purpose of helping and encouraging each other with recovery. James is grateful for the opportunity to lead this support group as it has helped him gain confidence with public speaking. He reflects on the way Easterseals Colorado has affected his life, “I have learned to trust my post-stroke brain more, celebrate the little things, and focus on the moment. Easterseals has built a fabulous staff that is patient and inspires me. We focus on learning, healing, and growing.”

Easterseals Colorado is raising funds for a kitchen remodel that will greatly benefit Stroke Day participants, like James. Participants will use this kitchen to help regain independence they have lost due to their stroke.  All donations large and small are much appreciated. Your involvement is critical to our success and inspiring independence. Thank you again for your love and support.

*Name changed to protect participant privacy.