Reclaiming life after stroke: TriStar Skyline rehabilitation program leads the way

When Harold Brockett of Red Boiling, TN, woke up on October 25, he was unable to move the left side of his body. His wife, Sherry, quickly recognized the signs of a stroke and called for help. Harold was transported to TriStar Skyline Medical Center, Middle Tennessee’s first Comprehensive Stroke Center, where he immediately began receiving lifesaving evaluation and treatment.

“The care has been excellent from the nurses, techs, housekeeping, everyone,” Sherry said. “We couldn’t ask for anything better.”

Following three days of acute care, Harold transitioned to intensive rehabilitation on TriStar Skyline’s therapy floor. As part of his recovery, the therapy team coordinated a supervised community outing to a local Mexican restaurant, an important milestone that helped Harold practice mobility, coordination and real-world independence.

“That outing was huge for me,” Harold said. “It showed me how far I have come in my recovery.”

While hospitalized, Harold learned he had undiagnosed high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. The discovery transformed his stroke experience into an emotional wake-up call.

“You think you’re invincible until something like this happens,” Harold said. “Time is brain, and time is precious.”

Harold and Sherry expressed deep gratitude to the TriStar Skyline team, including Madison, Faelan, Shayla, Keisha, Lu and Caden, who provided compassion, communication and consistency throughout his stay. Medication education, detailed discharge planning and two days of family training prepared the couple for Harold’s transition to a rehabilitation facility closer to home.

Their message to the community underscores the importance of prevention and early recognition:

• Learn the warning signs of stroke (BE FAST)
• Establish care with a primary care provider
• Get routine checkups and know your health numbers
• Prioritize your health before it’s too late

“It could have been so much worse,” he said. “I’m thankful for the care I received at TriStar Skyline.”

TriStar Skyline remains a regional leader in advanced stroke care, providing rapid diagnosis, coordinated treatment, community-reintegration therapy and comprehensive rehabilitation support to help patients like Harold achieve the best possible recovery.