Nadine Wright

“Yesterday I couldn’t do as much as I can today.”

I was going to a party in December. I arrived there, and fell down the steps and landed on my head. When I woke up – I wasn’t even at the party an hour – they told me I was paralyzed from my head to my toes. I had to have a spinal cord operation in order for me to be able to walk again.

I woke up in Jamaica Hospital. Then I went to Mount Sinai – the first rehab place. They were the ones who believed in me that I would walk again.

Later on, I came to Fairview for rehab. Rehab was good. They taught me how to walk again. I can’t walk normal, but still I can already walk. It feels good to be tall like people again. My balance is back. I have the ability to believe that I can do something further. And I believe I will keep improving.

I had 100 days for rehab. During that time aids helped me tremendously. Afterwards, when rehab was over, they helped me walk. I walk upstairs. Every day I walk 400 feet. The legs get stronger. I do exercise now – make sure my legs don’t get stiff. I exercise the arms. The aids help me do exercises in the morning. That’s good and it’s very important.

I feel very optimistic about going further on with walking. I want to try to get dressed, put on a shirt, and take it off. That is important to me also.

Yesterday I couldn’t do as much as I can today. I can walk with the assistance of someone. I can do a few things. My sleeping is better. I can move around by myself. I go where I want to go although I can’t go outside by myself yet.

I can eat, brush my teeth. And I can say I’m getting better!

This article contains informational and educational materials and does not replace health or medical advice. For questions or concerns regarding your medical condition or health objectives, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.