Submitted by Ryan Hough, Therapy Resource, Nebraska
Staci Slater, OT at Omaha Nursing & Rehabilitation, shared this great story about giving purpose to life and her support to further her patients’ education.
JG is a 27-year-old male who sustained a C3-4 SCI when he was 24 years old secondary to a MVA. This patient has a high school degree and enlisted in the U.S. Navy for three years following high school. He is residing in LTC following acute rehab. His goal is to return to his mother’s home following home modifications.
JG has a power TNS wheelchair that he is able to maneuver using head control. He enjoys playing X-Box using Quad Stick mouth control, and he has a head control mouse that he uses to control his phone and computer. His computer is also accessible with the use of Dragon Naturally Speaking in combination with the use of his head mouse.
When JG transferred to Omaha Nursing & Rehab, OT assisted the patient with high educational pursuit. OT assisted the patient with verifying options for financial assistance and education:
● Cleared out student loans
● Applied for FAFSA (financial assistance)
● Verified VA benefits
● Applied to the community college and was accepted
● Contacted community college accessibility department to be able to participate at a college level within the range allowed by physical limitation
JG had to take placement exams (completed online) and signed up for classes. He completed English class online and is now planning to take the math placement exam and continue with his pursuit of education. Through furthering his education, JG hopes to explore future career options.