Because of Siskin Hospital, I can play with my nieces and nephews!

Studies show that nearly half of adults in the United States suffer from hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, leading to an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. For recent Siskin Hospital patient Joey Castillo, ignoring this significant health issue almost cost him his life.

At 39-years-old, Joey was focused on enjoying his life. His favorite pastime was spending time with his family and friends, especially his nieces and nephews. While aware of his family’s history with high blood pressure, Joey did not believe it was necessary for him to go on medication to manage the symptoms.

On December 9, 2024, Joey woke up after a fun weekend away with friends and realized something was very wrong. His entire left side had gone numb, he could not hear, his vision was blurry, and the symptoms were continuing to worsen. When they arrived at the Emergency Room, doctors confirmed that he had suffered a major stroke. Joey spent the next 17-days in the intensive care unit on a ventilator, with a grim chance of survival.

“After I woke up, the doctors told me that I had one foot in the grave on December 9. It really puts life in perspective,” said Joey.

Once Joey stabilized medically, he was transferred to Siskin Hospital and began his intensive physical rehabilitation journey. Due to his stroke and intubation, Joey had to rebuild his strength, balance, motor control along with being able to safely swallow.

“When Joey first got here, he required maximum assistance with almost all of this treatments,” said Peyton Smith, PT, DPT, the primary physical therapist on his case. “He left therapy sweating every day, but he had a lot of motivation to get better.”

His nieces and nephews acted as a significant source of motivation for him to not only recover from the stroke, but to lead an overall healthier lifestyle.

“I couldn’t just be here and not do the work. I want to be able to help coach my nephews’ team, and just continue living,” said Joey.

Throughout his several months on inpatient treatment, Joey continued to steadily progress in physical, occupational, and speech therapy, pushing himself at every session. Sometimes so much so that his primary speech language pathologist Sara Tinter, CCC-SLP, CBIS, created posters for his room that said “Give yourself some grace” and “Be nice to Joey”!

Due to his determination and incredible attitude during his stay, Joey quickly became well-known and loved by his clinical team. “It’s people like Joey that drive us as therapists. He gave 150% every single session,” said Becky Coode, OTR/L, Joey’s primary occupational therapist.

After 77 days of inpatient physical rehabilitation, Joey’s family, friends, and numerous Siskin Hospital associates gathered during his discharge celebration, cheering him on as he walked out of the front doors with just a walker for assistance. He plans to continue therapy at Siskin Hospital’s outpatient therapy clinic in Cleveland, Tennessee.

“I just want to share my appreciation for everyone who has worked with me because they are so nice. From the therapists, nursing team, and even the cleaning staff, if you need anything, they are going to take care of you,” said Joey.

Congratulation on all of your hard work, Joey! We are so proud of how far you have come!