Our Graduates
Stroke Survivor Success Stories
Patricia, Stroke Survivor
“After experiencing a significant stroke that caused hemiparesis on my entire right side, I came to APT following my hospitalization with limited movement in my right leg, no movement in my right arm, hand, ankle, or foot, and severe pain in my right shoulder. Determined to get my life back, I worked hard with my physical therapist to regain strength in my right arm and improve motor control in my hand. I made steady progress with walking and balance, and over time, I was able to transition out of my ankle and foot brace completely.
Today, I’m totally independent in all my daily activities. I walk freely without a brace or any assistive device, have full use of my right arm and hand without pain, and I even drive my own car. I can walk over two miles at a time—and I even shuffle cards better than my therapist using both hands!”
Patricia’s Dance Post-Stroke
Eric, Cavernous Malformation Survivor
“I have a rare condition that causes the blood vessels in my brain to get tangled, which meant I needed major surgery to fix it. After my first brain surgery, I lost all movement on my left side. I worked with Dr. Audia to get it back, and after a lot of effort I was able to recover..
A few years later the same issue came up again, and I had to go through another brain surgery. This time, I lost almost all movement in my left arm and I couldn’t even open my hand. I went back to Audia Physical Therapy really motivated to bounce back, and I’ve actually made even more progress than I did the first time.
Now, I can work-out without a problem, I’m working part-time, and I can use my arm overhead. I can throw a ball, shuffle cards, and handle all sorts of things with my left hand again. It hasn’t been easy, especially while working and going back to school, but I’ve pushed through and I’m really proud of how far I’ve come. “
Paul, Stroke Survivor
“I had a stroke over two years ago, and since then, I had been completely dependent on others for all my mobility. When I first came to Audia Physical Therapy, I couldn’t move my right leg at all. I needed a Hoyer lift just to transfer, and I had a really hard time sitting up without support.
But after just a short time in physical therapy things started to change. Now, I’m doing single-leg squats on a machine with my right leg, lifting it with some help, sitting unsupported, transferring from my wheelchair to a mat on my own, and even standing up from my wheelchair with assistance.
My wife and I had no idea it was still possible for my right leg to regain function this far out from my stroke. With the right therapy, I’m starting to realize how much recovery is still possible and it’s been incredible to see what I can do.”