Rickey

It seemed like a great day for a ride, so Rickey climbed on his motorcycle and went out to enjoy the day. Riding along a nice country road, he came around a curve and lost control of his motorcycle. The motorcycle went off the road while Rickey landed in a drainage ditch.

Rickey sustained serious injuries in the crash. He was airlifted to the hospital, unable to move his legs. Rickey required surgery for multiple fractures in his back. He also had a hip fracture, multiple rib fractures, and a collapsed lung.

Due to the severity of his injuries, Rickey needed inpatient rehabilitation before returning home. He chose Gateway Rehabilitation Hospital to help him regain his function and independence.

When Rickey arrived at Gateway, he needed help from two people to get out of bed. He could not walk or put any weight on his legs. Four weeks later, he discharged home with his family. On his discharge day, Rickey could walk small distances with a walker. He credits his therapist, Ray, for helping him stay strong and work hard. Rickey even gave Ray a nickname, No Mercy Ray.

The following week, Rickey began outpatient therapy at Gateway to build on his success. Though he has been down a long road, Rickey recognizes the importance of staying the course. “You just have to keep going,” he said. Rickey now walks independently with the assistance of forearm crutches. Twice a week, he continues outpatient physical and occupational therapy. His goal is to walk with no device and to return to work.