Kade's Story

Photo of Kade Hauk, a patient at Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation - Frisco.

Multiple trauma

Tanner “Kade” Hauk, 25, a golf caddie, enjoyed spending time with his family and girlfriend.

“Since I moved around a lot, I say I’m from Texas ... I grew up in the panhandle and Fort Worth,” he said. “I have a big and crazy family. We’re all spread out.”

The oldest of his siblings, Kade loved golf, video games and his motorcycle.

But one day, he almost lost his life in a motorcycle accident.

Rushed to Medical City Denton Hospital by ambulance, immediate scans and tests revealed a traumatic brain injury, fractures in his neck and multiple complex injuries, including nerve damage. Following more than a dozen surgeries and two months in the hospital, Kade faced significant challenges, including limited mobility, severe pain, sensitivity and impaired functional independence.

Once he was medically stable, he was in need of comprehensive rehabilitation to regain mobility, cognitive skills and learn to tolerate the pain and sensitivity from the nerve damage. He chose Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation (BSWIR) - Frisco because he and his family read many positive reviews of the facility.

When he arrived, the care team first conducted a full assessment. Kade required maximum assistance from three to four people to complete basic transfers like getting out of bed. He could not stand or move independently and he was unsure of what recovery might entail. In fact, he could not articulate any personal goals when asked.

“I was overwhelmed,” he confessed. “I [felt] like anything that a functional person could do, I couldn’t do.”

Despite initial uncertainty, he worked closely with his physician-led team of therapists to develop a plan that would focus on gaining back his strength, mobility and independence.

Physical therapy was a vital part of Kade's recovery. Therapists guided him through strengthening exercises and stretches. He used hand weights and therapy bands to improve his arm and leg strength and range of motion, enabling him to tolerate standing and eventually take steps with a walker. He uses a wheelchair for mobility as he learns to stand and walk and safely.

“We worked on basic maneuvers to become more independent with my injuries,” recalled Kade. With grit and new confidence, Kade made progress step-by-step.

An emotional and crucial moment in his recovery was “the first time I was able to hug someone while standing.” When he left BSWIR - Frisco, he could hop up to 70 feet with his walker, get in and out of bed and could propel his wheelchair over a variety of surfaces.

In occupational therapy, Kade’s therapists focused on his ability to do practical tasks that would support his transition home. He worked on transfers and using the shower and dress safely and independently. Cognitive exercises, including video games and puzzles, helped him regain focus, spatial awareness and mental flexibility. Therapists also took him for a home visit to evaluate his home environment and to educate his family on how they could assist him when he returned to independent living.

As Kade recovered, he still experienced intense pain and sensations in his right hand and left leg from nerve damage. His therapists used plastic beads to help desensitize his skin and a massage wand to manage pain.

Recreational therapy provided additional confidence through creative and interactive activities. Kade practiced fine motor skills by playing guitar, building Legos and participating in animal-assisted therapy sessions. These activities not only enhanced his physical recovery but also helped him manage pain and improve his mood.

Through consistent effort, Kade achieved significant milestones. He progressed from being unable to stand to walking short distances with a walker and propelling himself in a wheelchair. He learned to dress and feed himself and gained the strength and mobility to complete daily activities independently.

Kade credited his loving family, the collaborative efforts of his therapists and his faith in God for his sustained progress.

Reflecting on his health journey, he said, “I think it showed me how small things can be taken for granted, like brushing my teeth or eating. My biggest takeaway is how much therapy has helped me believe in recovery, not just for me, but for everyone.”

Kade looked forward to returning home, but he also looked forward to additional therapy, both at home and as an outpatient.

“Obviously I am ready to be home and enjoy things I haven’t been able to do in here, but in all honesty, I’m looking forward to the next step in my recovery journey.”