As physical, occupational and speech therapists we see life-changing events almost daily. Dedicated patients push past their perceived limitations under our individualized care. Occasionally, we are blessed to participate in miraculous events. Kilah Dunn, PT had such an experience. Patient Anthony Crump has agreed to let us share a small portion of his story.

In September 2013, Satanta High School took the field for their first football game of the season. Anthony Crump, a freshman, was starting his high school career. However, things did not go according to plan. Anthony was hit on the opening kick-off return and felt everything go limp. He was airlifted to Mercy Regional Hospital in Wichita, Kansas, where it was found that he had fractured his C3 vertebrae, stretched his anterior longitudinal ligament and various other cervical tendons. He also had massive swelling around his spinal cord with a significant hematoma. His overall diagnosis was a C4 incomplete spinal cord injury. Initially doctors told Anthony that it would take him possibly a year to two years to walk and that he may never run again.

Shortly thereafter Anthony started therapy services. He had poor sensation, significant pain and an inability to move anything but his facial muscles. When he was medically stable, he was transferred to Chicago Shriners Hospital for Children where he underwent extensive physical and occupational therapy for 52 days. Upon discharge, he was able to walk short distances without assistance. When he came home to Satanta, his primary goal for therapy was to perform a push-up again.

Kilah Dunn, PT, RehabVisions employee and director at the Satanta District Hospital, worked with Anthony for three months on balance, gait training and strengthening. Anthony was discharged from physical therapy services on January 16, 2014 and was able to run a full mile without stopping. He now hops, jumps, skips and plays like a normal teenager. He no longer requires any bracing and can complete up to 22 push-ups. His inspiring story is followed both locally and nationally. He is a true walking/running miracle, and we are blessed to have participated in his care.