One patient’s journey from a double stroke to recovery at RIH

Neurosurgeon Dr. Reena Baweja was on duty at RIH that evening. “Vinny’s condition is a complex one. He became acutely paralyzed in the legs due to a stroke in his spinal cord,” says Dr. Baweja. “The stroke in his spinal cord resulted from the narrowing of major blood vessels at the base of his brain. Decompression of the spinal cord does not usually help in the setting of a stroke in the spinal cord, but I felt that Vinny’s tests showed that he might benefit from surgery.”

Dr Baweja and her team decided to go ahead with surgery after a discussion with Dr. Prasad from the intensive care unit (ICU) and Vinny’s family.

Friends who had come to the hospital to support Vinny were told that even post-surgery he was still in critical condition and may never walk again. He also contracted pneumonia associated with the ventilator.

But Vinny pulled through and three weeks later began physiotherapy and occupational therapy at RIH. “Everyone—Dr. Baweja and Dr. Prasad, the nursing staff, support staff, doctors and physio and occupational therapists—were so supportive, so friendly,” he says. “The hospital was my second home. They treated me like a member of their families. My wife spent a month and a half with me in the hospital, and the staff took care of her as much as they did me.”

Vinny was discharged in October, five months after his strokes. It was an emotional moment. “I got a second chance. I almost died, almost lost everything,” says Vinny.

Today, close to one year after his strokes, Vinny continues to see a physiotherapist. He’s able to walk 10-20 steps without the support of his walker and can do most things on his own. He’s gone back to work managing his retail plaza in Merritt which gives him joy. Though physically his life has changed, mentally and emotionally Vinny feels strong.

“By God’s grace I never felt and don’t feel depressed. When I was lying alone in the hospital bed, I thought, why me? But with the support of my family and the medical staff, I came to accept my situation,” he reflects. “We just have to enjoy the moment we have, in the moment, and not dwell on the past or the future.”

It was also a proud moment for Dr. Baweja and the ICU team. “I wasn’t sure that Vinny would ever walk again and I am so thrilled by his recovery. Given how sick he was, his recovery has been truly remarkable,” shares Dr. Baweja. “Good outcomes in young people are especially rewarding. They have their whole lives to live and timely, effective care will ensure that they do get to live their best lives.”

She encouraged Vinny to share his story so others can feel inspired by his journey. “I’m very grateful for the warmth and support I got from all doctors, nursing staff, support staff and physiotherapists,” adds Vinny. “With their support and encouragement, I was able to recover more quickly than expected.”

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