One year after farming accident, therapy patient walks again

When a farming accident in May 2014 left Lucas Stewart unable to walk, stand, or drive, his willpower kicked into overdrive to regain mobility.  

A hay bale rolled on top of Stewart and he instantly lost the feeling in much of his body.  Walking became impossible.  "It was uncertain at the time.  I was sure I wanted to.  I guess I had the willpower to try it," said Stewart.

Less than one month after that terrible farming accident, Stewart was in physical and occupational therapies, giving it his all, even though it came with pain.  "It was hard, but with the willpower it makes it easier," he said.

We were there as Stewart worked with CHRISTUS Saint Patrick Hospital occupational therapist Orlando Berlanga, relearning how to get in and out of a vehicle, drive using hand controls, and testing reaction times.  "It can be frustrating because everything is not working like it's supposed to be, especially with him, with his lower extremities," said Berlanga.  "He had so much trouble controlling them, feeling them."

But Stewart never gave up.  As his body strengthened over the months to follow, the day came when he could finally stand, then take steps.  "It was a joy," he said, "I really enjoyed it.  It brought me up."

"To see him do his transfers and see him walk, that was very impressive," said Berlanga.  "I was just amazed.  He's still such a determined gentleman."

Stewart says it feels good to reap the rewards of hard work at therapy and his goal is the same looking to the future.  "Motivation.  Wanting to walk," said Stewart.

Stewart says he hopes to walk without a walker one day, but if that does not happen, he is still thrilled to be so many steps ahead of where he was one year ago.

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