Hi everyone!
I'm new and just want to try and get some good advice/info for my 20 year-old nephew who was injured 2 weeks ago in a car wreck. I think it's a t3 or 4 total sever (from below the nipples and down). He also broke both arms and his neck (although that did not sever the cord and they say will heal). Broken pelvis, cheek and brow. Needless to say, he's quite miserable.
We're trying to find out where the best rehab is in Ohio. Want to stay as close as possible so we can visit fairly often. The hospital is kicking him out this week & he'll probably have to go to a nursing home till the casts come off the arms. The nursing home thing is really freaking him out!
I welcome any and all advice and comments for Josh (my nephew) and the family.
We're wandering around lost in a sea of confusion and anger right now. Never dealt with anything like this. HELP NEEDED!
I have to say, after reading a lot of the posts and profiles here, I have so much respect for all of you!!! You really live life, many even more fully than many of us who don't have your limitations! I pray my nephew will develop the wonderful outlook most of you here seem to have!

Hi! I realize that you want to keep him close, but I would highly recommend the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, GA. Several people on here went there. Also there is Frazier Rehab in Louisville, KY.

Thanks for your reply. I think I could stand him being away, but I don't think his parents will go for it. They HAVE to work and wouldn't be able to vist often that far away. I will, however pass your suggestion along. I did notice a lot of people on here recommend/went to Shepherd Center. must be a good place.
I'm hoping someone out there can tell me something about Cleveland Metro....

When I was injured in Louisiana I rehabbed at Warm Springs Georgia, 12 hours away from home. It made me grow up and make friends there. It is probably why I am still active 48 years later......

Get in touch with the Cleveland Clinic. They are right at the forefront in SCI research. Anyplace they recommend will be at a pretty high level of competance. Google them.
ed

I am almost certain that him being in a rehab centre with other people closer to his own age will do a world of good. It sure did for me. I was (and still am) the only person under the age of 60 to be wheelchair bound in my small town of about 5000, and the youngest person in that hospital by at least 30 years. Then I finally got to the Glenrose, about a 3 hour drive from home. Finally I didn't feel so alone. There were other people my age dealing with the same struggles I was. I was no longer 'room 16, bed 1' I was Chris.
Of course, before that happens, those broken bones have to heal. And like the song says, the waiting is the hardest part. I wish him and you the best of luck

Hey dsueb45!

Just to let you know the best facility in the Cleveland area is Metro Health Spinal Cord Unit. You have to have insurance or Medicaid (can not be pending) and preferably in Cuyahoga County to get in. If you need more information let me know. I am dealing with a family member with a C8 injury and no insurance right now and been declined admittance. Good Luck!

Hi Sweetie,
My husband was injured Sept.6,2008...one year ago. He is a T8 complete. We went to Cleveland Metro after his initial surgery at Akron General. The Spinal rehab at Metro is very intense and very beneficial. The whole floor is devoted to spinal injuries and the drs. and nurses are very caring. The atmosphere is also very upbeat and they care about the family as well. They were more than willing to teach me how to care for my husband and I was able to stay overnight in his room any time I wanted. There were recreational activities if you wanted to participate. There were all ages and different leveled injuries. Everyone was in the same boat so it was a good support system. I would recommend Metro and I would make sure to become as involved as you can with learning about how to care for him. This injury is difficult.......way more than just not walking. We had no idea. You need to pick up all and any tips you can to make the transition home easier. Also make sure you get a good visiting nurse service lined up. We used Akron General visiting nurse service (we live near Akron) and they were incredibe.The fisrt service we used was awful so be diligent in doing a little research. The visiting nurse is VERY important....I'm not kidding. I am so sorry about your nephews injury. It's a hard one. Just know that the first year is chaotic and emotional, but it truly does settle down and become routine with a little time. It just becomes a new kind of normal. I feel for you.................I know it's heartbreaking. Just be there for each other. If there is one thing we learned from our experience, it's that there are so many wonderful people ready to help you....ones you would never expect. Good luck...sending angels to help protect and guide you. e mail me if you want.....mcowling@juno.com....

Mary

What part of Ohio are you in? There is Dodd hall in Columbus at osu

Hi,

I'm new to this site and pretty new to my injury, but without a doubt, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland....it's where I receive all of my treatment and I LOVE the physicians, and the staff.

Best of luck to you and your family,
Amy

Does anyone have advice or opinions on MVH Rehab in Dayton??