Blink of an Eye

#247 Which Out-Patient Rehab to Choose? Drug Trial, Model Facility, or Immersive Group Living with Pato Gilchrist

Today’s episode delves into the extraordinary journey of Patricio "Pato" Gilchrist, who became a C4-5 incomplete quadriplegic following a life-changing diving accident in 2023. Pato shares his experiences, from the immediate aftermath of the accident to his extensive recovery process, highlighting the vital role of community, family, and the combination of innovative trial drugs and out-patient rehab therapies in his recovery.

He reflects on his time at QLI, where he engaged in groundbreaking treatments and discovered the transformative power of adaptive sports, which became a cornerstone of his recovery. Pato also discusses critical aspects of rebuilding his life, including navigating insurance challenges, the emotional and physical hurdles of therapy, and the adaptations that have enabled him to regain independence, such as driving modifications.

Throughout his story, Pato emphasizes the importance of humor, resilience, and strong support systems in overcoming adversity as he couldn't recover alone. His journey serves as a powerful testament to the importance of being willing to receive support, and finding an SCI community through rehab while never losing hope.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year. Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com, www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.