David's Story
Cardiac Rehabilitation
New Jersey born and raised, David Schneider settled in Leander, Texas. Married with one son, David is a proud gardener.
“I have pretty extensive landscaping in my yard with 200 feet of shrubbery and a 7x5-ft hibiscus plant I've kept alive for 18 years so far,” he said.
One day, a severe case of nausea caused the 66-year-old to seek medical attention from his doctor. He was sent home but the nausea got worse. He headed to the emergency room.
Physicians there found he had multiple heart attacks and valve blockages. He had bypass surgery at Ascension Seton Williams County. He developed a high fever and pneumonia, leading to an emergency colon removal and a month in Cedar Park Medical’s ICU.
"I couldn't do anything—couldn't lift a spoon or fork to feed myself, couldn’t hear, couldn’t sit up, roll over, [or] go to the bathroom," recalled David of the challenges he faced post-surgery.
Once he was medically stable, his physicians recommended an intensive inpatient rehabilitation program to help him regain mobility and independence. Determined to find the right place to help him regain his independence, he and his wife toured multiple facilities. They chose Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation (BSWIR) - Lakeway.
"Even though this place was considerably out of the way, it was the best suited to my needs as it was much smaller and more personal," said David.
Upon arrival at BSWIR - Lakeway, the physician-led rehabilitation team worked with David to put a treatment plan in place. David's goals were simple yet profound: he wanted to stand again and go home to his family.
His plan required comprehensive physical and occupational therapy. Physical therapy activities aimed to strengthen his body and increase his endurance and activity tolerance. Occupational therapy focused on refining his fine motor skills and completing household tasks such as cleaning, cooking and gardening. “Everything was a strenuous workout,” remembered David.
Guided by a dedicated a team physical therapists, occupational therapists and nurses, David steadily progressed toward his goals.
"Every time I reached a new milestone... I tried to do that each time in therapy so that was my motivation for next time," reflected David. “Seeing my daily progress was mind-boggling.”
Amid the demanding rehab sessions, David found support from his family, who actively participated in family training for therapy and nursing. Family training assists families in learning to take care of their loved ones at home after discharge from the hospital.
"My wife and son mean everything to me. I wouldn't be here without them," David expressed.
After a month in rehabilitation, David prepared to bid farewell to BSWIR - Lakeway. He anticipated the return of the simple joys of life—gardening, being with his family and relishing the comforts of home.
Reflecting on his experience with gratitude, David said, “I have a challenge ahead to continue but the team helped me get there."
David and his wife left this advice to individuals and families going through a similar situation: "Find the will to push yourself—not too hard—but a little bit more every day.”