Stephen Barnhart
"I was determined to regain my strength and Broward Health Imperial Point’s rehab has given me back the lease I had on life."
In March 2020, a serious medical condition left Stephen Barnhart unable to walk. With the assistance of friends, and in a matter of months, Stephen went from using a wheelchair to using a walker to maneuver. However, he was still extremely weak and required physical therapy.
A friend recommended Broward Health Imperial Point’s rehabilitation center.
A few months later, Stephen, of Wilton Manors and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, began his physical therapy at the hospital. “I had lost weight and muscle strength,” Stephen said. “It was a chore to walk and I needed to build my strength.”
The rehab team, including physical therapist Fiona Bell and rehab care associate Robbie Kirkland, started Stephen on a regime of core and strength exercises.
“The rehab center has a great environment,” Stephen said. “Everyone is so positive and welcoming.”
“I was determined to regain my strength, however, there were some tough days,” Stephen said. “Robbie and Fiona were right by my side encouraging me to keep going with the exercises.”
The care the team provided went beyond physical therapy. When Fiona noticed that Stephen was showing symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica, she encouraged him to see a specialist. He is now receiving treatment for his arthritis.
Stephen recently completed his therapy and is looking forward to joining the hospital’s fitness center.
“Broward Health Imperial Point’s rehab has given me back the lease I had on life,” Stephen said.