Small Victories in Every Step.

“My recovery journey at the Pate Rehab Savanna Oaks Ranch treatment center after my stroke was a transformative experience. The dedicated team of therapists and specialists provided personalized care that addressed my physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. Through their evidence-based approach and unwavering support, I was able to regain essential skills, build confidence, and develop strategies to adapt to new challenges.

The structured programs and multidisciplinary approach helped me make significant progress, and I am deeply grateful for the compassionate and professional environment that Pate provided. My experience there not only facilitated my recovery but also empowered me to continue striving for improvement and independence.

When I first started my recovery journey in January 2024, it was one of the most challenging periods of my life. I struggled to talk and had extreme facial drooping, nor could not walk very well and relied heavily on a walker, then a cane. I was not able to drive anymore and relied on family to take me where I needed to go. Each step felt like an uphill battle, and my lack of mobility left me feeling frustrated and discouraged. I was also battling depression, overwhelmed by the fear that I might never recover fully or regain the independence I had lost. Motivation was hard to come by at first, but the team at Pate helped me see small victories in every effort. They created a supportive environment that reminded me recovery was possible, even when I doubted myself. Gradually, with their guidance and encouragement, I started to push through those dark moments and make progress, one step at a time. Looking back, I’m grateful I’ve come this far, even though the journey was far from easy. My last day at Pate was in March 2024 and I was able to drive away on my own.

Today, I’m proud to share how far I’ve come. I have returned to work full-time with no limitations. I can walk and drive on my own without any assistance and can speak in clear sentences that allow me to connect with others. My face has regained its normal shape, and I have lost over 120 pounds. I’m enjoying life with my family and friends.

Special thanks go out to occupational therapist Courtney Martin, speech therapist Melissa Lefran, and physical therapists Heather Medford and Kristina Vo. They guided me through countless challenges, celebrated even the smallest victories, and reminded me that recovery was about persistence and patience even though I was grumpy, and my attitude was not very nice. Thank you for putting up with me.

Lastly, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support I received from my wife, Maria; my sister, Kim; my mother, Ae Wol; my son, Juan; my father-in-law, Carlos; my mother-in-law, Bella; my sister-in-law, Kara; and my brother-in-law, Matt. Their love, encouragement, and belief in my ability to overcome challenges gave me the strength to persevere, even on the most difficult days. Without each of them I can honestly say that I would not have been able to make it.” – Juan O., RWW Patient