If Nathan Becker could sum up On With Life and his experience during his two months in the inpatient program, it would be “wonderful.” The facility, the staff, the way his family and interests were incorporated into his therapy sessions - Nathan talks very highly of it all despite the life-changing situation that brought him there.
In March 2019, Nathan was hit in the head by a large tree branch, resulting in a hematoma and mini strokes within his brain stem. He was hospitalized for two months before heading to On With Life where he focused on relearning to speak and using the right side of his body.
Even during a difficult time, Nathan was able to find positivity in his experience. He was able to spend time with his family, who either stayed in the family house or visited often. He was able to be outside and utilize the therapy gardens not just during sessions, but for recreation on the weekends. And his therapists knew him well and committed to getting him back to not just the basics, but the things he loved to do.
“I am a teacher, so my therapists had me doing math problems and teaching them lessons,” said Nathan. “I loved basketball and was a coach, so they always tried to find ways to involve the hoop and a ball.”
These therapy techniques helped Nathan to get where he is today. While he is still working toward being able to run up and down a basketball court, he recently had the opportunity to teach once again.
“I started substitute teaching some and had an opportunity to teach junior high math for a semester,” he said. “It has been great! It has given me a purpose and made me feel like I belong again.”
What once seemed doubtful is now not only possible, but reality for Nathan. On With Life may have played a role in this success but Nathan knows it took two other important factors – “attitude and effort.” He can’t wait to see where life takes him next!