One Patient's Story
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PDF version“I pulled the car over and told my wife that something was wrong. I couldn’t even drive,” said Bassler. “My speech began to slur and I felt incredibly nauseous. I knew we needed to call an ambulance.”
Bassler was right. The ambulance rushed him to Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare’s Emergency Department. He was having a stroke, but thankfully, he was at the best place he could be. Faxton St. Luke’s was designated a Stroke Center by the New York State Department of Health. This means Faxton St. Luke’s has the equipment, trained medical staff, and processes in place to evaluate and treat individuals with stroke signs and symptoms.
Bassler was admitted to the Stroke Center and given tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA). This is the best treatment available, but it has to be administered within three hours of the start of the stroke.
“Being a Primary Stroke Center brings us a giant step closer to improving our community’s ability to protect against stroke and bring timely, exceptional treatment,” said Scott Brehaut, MD, medical director for the Stroke Center.
After three days at the Stroke Center, Bassler was transferred to the inpatient unit at the Faxton Campus’ Regional Rehabilitation Center.
“Rehab is hard work, but I’m determined to get back home to my family,” said Bassler.
“I hope my story can help others remember that if you’re having a stroke, don’t delay. Get to the Stroke Center at Faxton St. Luke’s immediately. My wife and I are eternally grateful for the wonderful care they gave me.”
