Below is a summary of my Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital “story.” I invite you to read it, and if you so feel compelled, either:

• Attend the December 6 Miracle Night for Madonna gala – https://www.madonna.org/foundation/miracle-night-for-madonna

• Donate via this page in support of Madonna because I know I would not be where I am today if not for them providing world-class rehabilitation therapy!

As you may know, I am a firefighter and veteran, and have always been inspired to help others. In fact, while I was training for a charity boxing event in March 2023, I sustained a severe brain injury. I arrived at Stormont Vail Health in Topeka, Kansas, where doctors held little hope for my survival as there was a brain bleed, seizures and several infections.

Three weeks later, my medical condition had mercifully stabilized enough for me to transfer to Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals’ specialized brain injury program. Upon arrival, I couldn’t move or breathe on my own. I also struggled with swallowing and speech due to significant aphasia.

Fortunately, I soon proved that I was up to face these challenges head on and met my speech therapist who performed a FEES, or a fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation swallowing test which is essentially a camera on the end of a scope that helps see where food and drink is going.

I love food, so this was an important part of my recovery in the beginning as receiving the proper nutrition during medical rehabilitation is a vital part of the recovery process.

I eventually transitioned from Madonna’s Specialty Hospital, a step down from an intensive care unit, to Madonna’s Rehabilitation Hospital where I began rigorous occupational and physical therapy sessions for three hours a day.

I started taking steps with the help of the Lokomat which is a robotic, body-weight supported gait trainer. I also transitioned to walking with a walker and then just a cane, and eventually “graduated” from Madonna’s Rehabilitation Day Program in August of 2023.

I was able to participate in outpatient therapy, returned to light duty at my beloved firehouse, and also shared my story with members of church during Sunday services.

Both my wife Renae and I are so appreciative of Madonna and am grateful for personal touch that Madonna brings to patients. Again if you feel so compelled, please feel free to donate to Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals as I would not be where I am today without them!