How and when did you begin at ProHealth? What got you first interested in Pilates and/or Physical Therapy?

I joined ProHealth and Karyn Staples two years ago. One of my 2020 New Year’s resolutions was to get a better handle (control) of my healthcare, and take a more proactive stance in my recovery from Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare neuro-muscular disease that struck me suddenly in early 2019. Mine was (is) an unusually severe case, resulting in my becoming totally paralyzed within 24-hours after initial symptoms – only my eyelids moved.

I spent three weeks in ICU and another three months at the world-renowned Shepherd Center in Atlanta — with a ventilator, tracheal tube and stomach feeding tube keeping me alive. I returned home as a quadriplegic in a motorized wheelchair. Three doctors told me I’d never walk again. 

I started physical therapy 3-times a week, with only minimal improvement. I still had not been in a standing position, much less walk or take care of my personal needs. Friends and neighbors kept bringing up ProHealth to me. We finally contacted Karyn, who listened to my story, and asked me about my goals, expectations and willingness to get aggressive with my recovery. It was then that she and I decided to commit to each other. I only wish I had done it sooner!

What have been surprising benefits coming to ProHealth?

Prior to my joining ProHealth, I used three different physical therapy providers, all of whom lacked the technical experience, specialized equipment, and/or genuine interest in taking on my unique situation. Karyn took her commitment seriously, and on the very first session, had me in a standing position and moving my legs! 

Since that time, I have walked with a walker, crutches and occasionally, a few steps on my own. Karyn’s training went beyond standing and walking, providing me practical solutions for climbing steps, getting into a car, sitting and standing. I relearned all the things I always took for granted. 

Currently, we’re working on going up and down stairs, going in and out doors without help, etc. I continue semi-weekly therapy sessions with her, knowing that each time, we’re moving closer to my becoming even more independent.

Favorite piece of Pilates apparatus and why?

Aside from Karyn’s hands-on assistance, my favorite equipment is the Reformer, allowing me to build strength and flexibility.

What’s a Pilates/ Physical Therapy goal you have?

Next step – walking with just one cane, and proving the naysayers wrong!

If you were talking to a friend who was on the fence about trying ProHealth, what would you tell them?

Don’t hesitate like I did. Make an appointment with ProHealth and get moving!