Regaining mobility , one step at a time .
Regaining mobility , one step at a time .
Before David Nichi was transferred to AHN Canonsburg Hospital from AHN Allegheny General Hospital on February 4 , 2022 , he had already experienced the unthinkable . Just a few weeks earlier , he suffered a heart attack that required mitral valve replacement .
“ A lot of it is a blur . I don ’ t remember being transferred . But I remember not being able to move the entire right side of my body . They had to use a lift just to get me out of bed or sit me up in a chair ,” said David . That ’ s because he had a stroke in the left side of his brain .
Even though David understood there was a possibility that he may never walk , drive , or play golf again , he remained determined . His positive attitude played a crucial role in his recovery .
“ David experienced cardiogenic shock , which is the most serious kind of heart attack . Yet he was so motivated and still is . That mindset is key ,” said Jethalal Rambhia , MD , AHN cardiologist .
David began extensive physical , occupational , and speech therapy from his hospital bed at Canonsburg Hospital . His family and care team continued to motivate him as he improved . “ I made progress every day and every week . My nurses and therapists were simply amazing . I can ’ t say enough about them .”
As David regained strength and function with his therapy , he was soon able to sit up on his own . David then progressed to sitting in his wheelchair , walking with a walker , then with a cane , and now with no support whatsoever . Exactly two months after his heart attack , David walked out of Canonsburg Hospital completely unassisted . He ’ s even back to playing golf . “ I went on two golf trips last year . Just listen to what the therapists tell you and push yourself . You can do it .”
“ My goal was to walk out of AHN Canonsburg Hospital without a cane or a walker , and I did . My physical and occupational therapists were absolutely fantastic .”
David Nichi