Christmas crafting is a holiday miracle for one Jamestown man. Chuck Christ is known as a stunt race car driver and professional repair person. After a stroke in May, his careers were over.
The days can get long and lonely. However, he also says his progress is a miracle. To help him walk and gain dexterity in his left hand, Christ started sub-acute rehabilitation with Thielges Therapy and later outpatient physical and occupational therapy at Jamestown Regional Medical Center (JRMC).
Six months ago, walking and Christmas crafts were not possible for Christ.
Every year, the JRMC Emergency Department treats about 40 people experiencing a stroke. In 2022, JRMC partnered with Essentia Health to offer on-call telestroke services.
“A push of a button brings a neurologist into the room, interacting with the patient,” said Nikki Mack, registered nurse and “stroke champion” for monitoring care and improving outcomes.
For Chuck Christ, he is proud of his recovery so far. “I’m seeing progress,” he said.
Miracle of Christmas Crafts
This week, Christ came to JRMC with his racing sweatshirt on. To add some extra holiday cheer, his Occupational Therapist, Amy Walz, gave him a special therapy to work on hand dexterity and fine motor skills – Christmas crafts with cotton puffs and tinseled pipe cleaners.
“Some of the best therapy comes spontaneously when you ask a question and listen to their needs,” Walz said. “I’m glad we did these exercises; I had not seen Chuck smile and light up like that in a long time.”
She knew he liked working with his hands and hoped the therapy would brighten his spirits. After he created his golden star and evergreen Christmas tree, Walz helped him apply them to his hoodie for a DIY “ugly” sweater.
“There’s nothing ugly about this,” Walz said. “This is beauty.”
“They told me I’d never walk again,” Christ said. “It’s only because of my therapists that I can.”
To learn more about physical therapy, occupational therapy or stroke care, visit jrmcnd.com.
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