Robin's Story
Medically complex
Longview, Texas native Robin Ray-Carlton, 60, found herself grappling with progressive weakness in her legs which meant mobility issues. It all stemmed from Adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN), a slowly progressing, adult on-set genetic condition that affects the nerves in the brain and spine. It eventually impacts mobility and bladder and bowel functions.Robin is a former homemaker and proud University of Texas graduate. She learned of her condition 20 years ago but had just started experiencing progressive weakness in her legs. It became hard to walk, move and perform everyday activities.
Robin underwent a series of diagnostic tests at St. David’s South Emergency Department including CT scans of her head and cervical/lumbar spine. Doctors told Robin she would need intense inpatient therapy to regain her strength. For that, Robin and her children selected Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation (BSWIR) – Lakeway.
Upon admission, the physician-led therapy team assessed Robin and developed a personalized care plan that would allow help her recover and regain her ability to handle everyday tasks independently so that she could move into an assisted living facility after discharge.
Physical therapy sessions focused on enhancing balance and core strength, enabling Robin to progress from requiring constant assistance to walking unaided by the time of her discharge. “I became more confident and motivated in therapy,” said Robin.
Occupational therapy focused on standing balance and tolerance so that Robin would be able to use both hands to pull up her pants. Robin worked on the parallel bars for strength and balance and did functional reaching exercises using cones and rings while standing. Robin could use both hands again in about a week and a half without losing her balance, which allowed her to dress herself – something she didn’t think would be achievable just a few weeks prior. Her therapist also worked with Robin and her son Chase to practice transferring in and out of the car.
A pivotal moment came when Robin's catheter was removed. Her therapist said that having it removed was a big deal. Being able to use the bathroom symbolized both independence and progress and gave Robin a boost of confidence in other therapies and in all her activities of daily living.
Each small step Robin made bolstered her confidence giving her hope of reclaiming her independence and autonomy.
Robin expressed gratitude for the support of her therapy team and the compassionate care provided by the entire staff. She also appreciated the assistance of the case management team, whose efforts facilitated her smooth transition to an assisted living facility where she planned to continue occupational and physical therapy.
As she prepared for discharge, Robin was optimistic about regaining her health and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.