TBI Patient Finds Mobility with a Rehab Gait Trainer

Here is another story about a courageous man who is working to overcome his physical limitations through adaptive ambulation after a TBI. We were privileged to see Casey use his new Pacer XL Adult Gait Trainer for the first time during a recent visit Casey made to the Rifton Equipment facility, accompanied by his wife Jennifer. Physical disabilities did not stop Casey from achieving an upright position in this tall walker from which he could initiate ambulation. Supported gait practice is a key component in neurological rehabilitation. The Rifton Pacer XL gave Casey this support. Here is his story. Hats off to Casey!

Submitted by Jennifer Breyette: Casey was an active person, engaging in wrestling, soccer and other sports during his adolescence. He enjoyed skiing, motorcycling and other outdoor activities. This all changed on December 19th, 1995. Casey was driving from school to his job as an electrician when he was hit by an oncoming vehicle. The jaws of life were needed to pull Casey from the wreck. At the Fletcher Allen Trauma Center, Casey remained in a coma for six months. He suffered a closed traumatic brain injury, spleenic injury, and multiple fractures. It took 13 months of hospital care before Casey could come home.

I met Casey several years after his accident and we fell in love. Together we have a beautiful three-year old daughter, Kasey Lynn, and a happy little home of our own. Dealing with a child and Casey’s disability has been an everyday challenge, but by the love of our family and the grace of God we persevere.

I came across the Rifton Pacer XL Gait Trainer on the internet. It was being demonstrated by TBI recovery patient Sean Carter. I was impressed by the way the Pacer gave mobility to someone previously immobilized by an injury similar to Casey’s. We contacted Rifton and made an appointment. While we were there, the loving staff of Rifton couldn’t have been more helpful and friendly. They explained how the Pacer XL works, set Casey up in one and showed us how it can improve his quality of life. He’s been using the Pacer XL every day since and the difference in his leg strength is remarkable and evident in his gains during every physical therapy session. I’m convinced that the Pacer XL adult gait trainer will be instrumental in Casey’s rehabilitation and am grateful for the good work the people at Rifton do every day.