For over 20 years, Dave Powell has worked as a Union Pipefitter, providing for his family with dedication and grit. A devoted husband and loving father of three, the 47-year-old from Hudson, Ohio, was no stranger to long hours and hard work. But when persistent back pain began interfering with his daily life, he knew something wasn’t right.

As his condition worsened, Dave underwent surgery in hopes of finding relief. However, the road to recovery was far from easy. In the weeks that followed, he suffered three falls, leading to debilitating sciatica, a sharp, burning pain that radiates from the lower back through the leg, often accompanied by numbness and weakness. Seeking answers, Dave underwent extensive medical testing and received a series of injections to diagnose and treat the pain. Tragically, one of these procedures resulted in a hematoma that compressed his spinal cord, leading to cauda equina syndrome—a rare but severe condition that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Faced with an unimaginable challenge, Dave and his family turned to Summa Rehab Hospital, following the recommendation of his occupational therapist and home care team. Upon his admission, he was unable to roll over, sit up, or walk. But giving up was never an option.

With the unwavering support of Summa’s compassionate interdisciplinary team—including physical and occupational therapists Asia, Karen, Erin, Erica, and Abby—Dave embarked on an intensive rehabilitation journey. Using state-of-the-art therapies and technologies such as LiteGait®, a harness system designed to assist patients with mobility and balance challenges, Dave was able to begin walking again with assistive devices. His therapist Asia also noticed concerning balance issues during treatment, prompting further medical evaluation. This keen observation ultimately led to another critical surgery, one that helped prevent what could have been a devastating outcome.

Reflecting on his journey, Dave expresses deep gratitude for the team that stood by him every step of the way. “There is no way I would be walking without their help,” he says. His wife, Rebecca, echoes his sentiments, calling the team “angels doing God’s work of miracles.”

Two years later, Dave continues to make remarkable progress as an outpatient at Summa Rehab Hospital. Today, he walks with a cane and remains determined to return to work. In the meantime, he finds fulfillment in volunteering at his church, cherishing time with his family, and enjoying peaceful moments fishing.

“I’m grateful to the entire hospital for helping me get back on my feet,” Dave says, his resilience shining through. His story is one of strength, perseverance, and the power of a dedicated care team, a true testament to the human spirit.