Recuperating One Day at a Time

Life can change in an instant; Michael knows this first-hand. On a seemingly normal day, a seizure led to the discovery of a brain tumor, and subsequent surgery. Following surgery, Michael suffered a stroke. Life as he knew it changed drastically and he found himself unable to walk or even talk.

As a starting point on his road to recovery, Michael’s doctor suggested the Sentara Clinical Fitness Program offered at the Hilltop Family YMCA. Medically-supervised to help patients recover from stroke, surgery or other medical issues, it is a highly personalized program designed for obtaining optimum well-being through exercise and individualized rehabilitative services.

With the support of his parents, Michael has faithfully attended the program for three years. He works closely with Personal Trainer, Marx, who says that Michael is a model participant and shows consistent improvement. “Michael is very determined. He gives it his all and works really hard at whatever I ask him to do.”

Michael’s mother, Cookie, accompanies him to the Y for each and every session. She says from the beginning Michael has been very strong-willed and motivated to progress. Through this process she has seen Michael become more like the person he used to be as he continues to get stronger and become more independent.

Michael says it’s good to be among people who have had similar experiences and he has made lifelong friends through the program. He plans to continue his hard work of recuperation, taking one day at a time and never giving up hope for the future.