Walking Again - Vicky Garrison

Meet Vicky Garrison, an Air Force veteran who, after being diagnosed with cervical stenosis and myelopathy in 2003, has embraced current technology to walk again! Say hello to “Stanley Strider,” Vicky’s affectionate name for her EKSO Indego Personal Exoskeleton. In this episode we gain insight into Vicky’s remarkable journey and exceptional services provided by the Minneapolis VA.

Through her steadfast faith, positive attitude, determination, and strong support system Vicky has transformed her life. Today, she’s not only walking but tackling daily tasks with little to no assistance. Most significant is the EKSO Indego has recently earned the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approval, making this incredible technology available to the general public, beyond just VA rehabilitation.

Vicky’s mission? To share her journey and inspire others to achieve similar outcomes. Her infectious joy and indomitable spirit dominate this episode, leaving you both amazed and inspired.

News Flash! Since recording this episode of Spinal Cast, Vicky’s progress has skyrocketed. She’s now walking functionally with just the aide of ankle-foot orthosis (braces,) using the EKSO Indego solely for therapy and maintaining her gait pattern. This is phenomenal progress after 21 years using a wheelchair!

Disclaimer: Vicky’s experience with the EKSO Indego is uniquely hers, and her views are her own, not reflecting any organization endorsements.

A personal video journal of Vicky’s journey with the EKSO Indego is accessible via this link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRFMbVVM8Ze8sSk7Ysk5xKckhIci9_hTl

Bio for Vicky Garrison can be found here: https://mcpf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vicky-Garrison-Bio.pdf

Thanks to Vicky for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/