Your Stories: Stroke Recovery and a Journey of Determination
October 16, 2024Categories: Colleague Corner
On June 26, 2023, Tom Wassell's life changed dramatically. After suffering a stroke, the medical team at Saint Francis Hospital discovered that he had a 90% blockage in one of his carotid arteries, requiring emergency surgery. Although the procedure was successful in removing the blockage, Tom's journey took another challenging turn when he suffered a second stroke, leaving him paralyzed on his right side, unable to speak, and with minimal cognitive function.
Sharene and Tom honor Tracey with a Star on the “Recognize a Star” wall at Saint Francis Hospital.
When Tom woke up in the ICU, he was met by a team of dedicated healthcare professionals led by neurologist Dimitri Mirtchev, M.D. After three days, he was moved to the Step-Down unit, where his care continued under the watchful eyes of an exceptional nursing team, including Tracey. At that point, Tom's cognitive abilities were severely impaired-he couldn't identify objects, state his birthday, recite the current date, or even write his own name.
Despite the severity of his condition, Tom was determined to defy the odds. During his early days in recovery, he told Tracey, "I am going to drive at Nashville Motor Speedway in September, by myself, no matter what." His wife, Sharene, who had been steadfastly supporting him, was understandably concerned and expressed her doubts to Tracey, saying, "There is no way that is happening."
Over the next seven weeks, Tom underwent intensive cognitive and speech therapy. Though progress was slow, his determination never wavered. When Tom and Sharene met with Dr. Mirtchev, Tom once again brought up his goal of racing. While Dr. Mirtchev couldn't fully endorse the idea, he suggested a two-hour driving test at Mount Sinai as a compromise. Tom agreed to Sharene's terms: if he didn't pass the test, he would give up his racing dream. However, against all expectations, Tom passed with outstanding results.
On September 20, 2023, Tom achieved his goal, driving at Nashville Motor Speedway and clocking in at an impressive 161.56 MPH. Not content to stop there, he also raced at Atlanta Motor Speedway this past March. This achievement was not just a personal victory but a testament to his hard work and the exceptional care he received at Saint Francis Hospital. "The team at Saint Francis, including specialists, surgeons, ICU and Step-Down nurses, were amazing. I often felt like I was the only patient they were caring for," Tom reflected on his experience. The comprehensive and compassionate care he received played a pivotal role in his remarkable recovery.
Tom's journey continued as he worked on regaining his strength with his personal trainer. Since January 2024, Tom has been working on strength conditioning and balance exercises and goes to the gym four times a week. He has also resumed playing golf, enjoying the sport two to three times a week.
In gratitude for the exceptional care he received, Tom and Sharene made a gift in honor of his care team at Saint Francis, including his nurse, Tracey. To join them in making a difference, visit saintfrancisdonor.com.
Submitted by Whitney Hubbs Dionne, Senior Philanthropy Officer, Trinity Health Of New England.
Have a story you want to share? Submit your story at TrinityHealthOfNE.org/YourStories.