Kathy Steever survived a workplace shooting on Feb. 12, 2015, that killed a coworker and left her paralyzed with a traumatic brain injury. Following surgery at Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and a lengthy recuperation, Kathy began the next phase of recovery at Madonna.
Coming to terms with the horrific tragedy that robbed her mobility was tough. At Madonna, Kathy discovered a whole new way to live life. Physical therapists trained Kathy to use a power wheelchair navigated by sips and puffs through a tube. Relying on her voice to direct her daily activities, Kathy’s primary goal was “to connect with the world.” Her occupational therapy team introduced voice-activated technology for Kathy’s smartphone to call, text or FaceTime. The adaptive technology uses the Amazon Alexa software to sync with Amazon Echo, a hands-free speaker, to control her Smart TV. This innovative solution restored an crucial piece of her independence. Through all the trials, Kathy remains upbeat. She returned to nursing care in South Dakota with the long-term goal of returning to the family farm. Kathy’s determination to embrace life fully is an inspiration to anyone she meets.
