Neurosurgery and rehabilitation helped a farmer improve movement after a stroke

At 62 years old, Mr. Paul Gibson had never spent a day in the hospital. A lifelong resident of Columbia, Tennessee, he spent his days working hard on the farm. His routine included feeding livestock, gathering firewood and never missing a beat. He felt healthy, never had a reason to slow down, and had never once gone to the doctor for a check-up.

That all changed on the afternoon of February 21.

He had gone out to feed the animals, like he always did, but something wasn’t right. His son found him slumped over on his tractor and immediately called for help. Mr. Gibson doesn’t remember much from that day, but what happened next saved his life.

He was rushed to a local hospital, where doctors assessed his condition using the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS),a tool that helps determine the severity of a stroke by measuring things like movement, vision, speech, and awareness. His score was 14, indicating a moderate to severe stroke. With guidance from an Ascension Saint Thomas teleneurologist, the care team at the local hospital quickly administered IV TNK, a clot-busting medication that helps restore blood flow to the brain, and prepared him for transfer.

By the time he arrived at Ascension Saint Thomas West Hospital, his NIH score had risen to 20.This score showed that his stroke had progressed rapidly and was potentially disabling. This swift deterioration highlights just how critical every minute is when treating a stroke. Quick action and strong collaboration between hospitals can make all the difference in saving lives and reducing long-term damage. 

Paul was transferred to Ascension Saint Thomas West to have a mechanical thrombectomy. This procedure involves a tiny device used to physically remove the blood clot causing the stroke. Thanks to the rapid response and expert care from neurologists Dr. Eugene LaFranchise and Dr. Steven Blount, he was given the best possible chance at recovery.

He remained in the hospital until early March, then spent time at a rehabilitation facility to continue healing. While he doesn’t recall much from his stay, he does remember how well he was cared for. “The care was excellent, and I couldn't have asked for a better team,” he said.

Now back home in Columbia, Mr. Gibson is focused on recovery. His dominant hand, which is his left, is gradually improving through therapy. He tires more easily than before and needs to take more breaks, but his determination remains strong. As he puts it, “You just have to push through it.”

At a recent visit to the Ascension Saint Thomas Medical Partners Bellevue Neurology his NIH Stroke Scale score had improved to a 1, which is nearly normal.

A stroke can happen to anyone, even those who feel perfectly healthy.

At Ascension Saint Thomas, our team of stroke specialists collaborate on diagnosing your stroke in as little as seconds and deliver the care that’s right for you. We have three certified Joint Commissioned stroke centers across Middle Tennessee. This certification means our care teams provide advanced stroke care that meets the specialized needs of stroke patients.

If you or a loved one is experiencing warning signs of a stroke such as numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, dizziness or loss of balance, every second counts. It's important to call 911 and go to the nearest emergency room right away.