Longtime nurse, Debbie Wahlert, went from caregiver to patient after complications with back surgery resulted in a spinal cord injury at the T7-T8 level. On the advice of her surgeon, Debbie chose Madonna for her recovery. In February 2020, she arrived at the beginning of COVID-19, saying her care team became her family, helping rally her to victory. During her three-month stay, Debbie benefitted from her care team’s expertise and knowledge combined with the physical, occupational and aquatic therapy that strengthened her legs and core. The use of specialized technology, including the Lokomat and driving simulator, helped her regain confidence in knowing she’d be able to be independent once back home. Through small steps and hard work, today, Debbie is back to work as a nurse at the hospital she’s worked at for 35 years. She continues to strengthen her walking abilities and cherishes time spent with family and friends.
