After Kirk Cunningham had a stroke in 2020, he was unable to walk.
“I was confined to a wheelchair,” explained Kirk, who’s 59. “I tried several different types of therapies, which helped increase some strength and mobility, but I wasn’t reaching my goal of walking without assistance.”
Then, a couple of months ago, he learned Aurora Medical Center – Summit had a new rehabilitation program that featured a robotic exoskeleton. The medical staff team at Aurora Summit generously donated the lead gift for the life-changing equipment.
“I’d heard of the exoskeleton and wanted to try it. I was thrilled to have an opportunity to use it so close to home.”
The exoskeleton is designed to help neuro-rehab patients like Kirk by reteaching the brain and muscles how to properly walk again. It can be used for a variety of patients, such as those who’ve had a stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis and walking or balance-related impairments.
“Working with this machine has been a game-changer. It’s training me to walk like I was before I had a stroke,” he shared. “Six months ago, if I fell, I would have had a difficult time getting up and would need help. Now I don’t need to worry about that anymore, although a helping hand is nice.”
Therapists can set training targets and adjust resistance levels to fit each patient and their unique situation. The exoskeleton provides data that allows them to make adjustments, give feedback and track progress.
“The exoskeleton fills a niche in my rehabilitation journey. And each session is different. I can work on standing upright, extending my left leg, balancing, squatting and lifting my knees. The more I use it and work with my therapist, Jon Swartz, the more my leg improves. I am comfortable walking up to a mile now and would like to extend that distance further and further.”
Kirk has been using the exoskeleton about once a week for the last two months. He’s enthusiastic about his progress and deeply grateful for his care team.
“Jon is so knowledgeable, and I’m very appreciative of his efforts,” said Kirk. “I’ve been taking my girlfriend’s dog for walks, and recently the dog pulled, and I didn’t fall whereas a few months ago I would have likely fallen.”
“He is walking further and more often,” added Jon. “His walking quality has gotten so much better with more even steps. He went to a concert recently and was able to walk up and down the stairs. Since starting rehab with the exoskeleton, we are seeing improvement day to day. He even looks happier and healthier.”
How you can help
The robotic exoskeleton at Aurora Medical Center – Summit was made possible because of the generosity of our donors. You can help people like Kirk regain their mobility and independence by donating to Aurora Summit or a hospital or program in your community today.