At 80 years old, Robert Magin lived a more active life than people half his age. Robert enjoyed working as a special education paraprofessional for kindergarten through fifth grade and with Project Launch, an afterschool program for third graders focusing on literacy and math. Robert has been married 49 years and has a daughter and two grandchildren. He loved to take camping trips with his travel trailer and fly fishing in the North Platte and Poudre Rivers.

Then, one July day, Robert’s life dramatically changed when he woke up unable to walk. After admitting to the acute care hospital, Robert underwent eight days of extensive testing. The results provided a diagnosis of transverse myelitis, an inflammation of the spinal cord.

To regain his function and independence, Robert needed intensive inpatient rehabilitation. He chose Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital (NCRH) for his recovery, close to his home in Lafayette.

“This was the best choice,” Robert said as he reflected on his experience at NCRH. “The smoothest operation I have seen. The staff worked as a team, and I was very impressed by their thoroughness. They met all my needs and had great meals for my diet.”

During his time at NCRH, Robert made significant gains in his recovery from spinal cord injury. “PT and OT got me from not walking to now wiggling my toes, and provided me with great exercises to do that will eventually help me walk again,” he shared.

“This place is the gold standard of care!”

Robert also enjoyed the supportive, community-like atmosphere at the rehabilitation hospital. “I love going to the dining room and meeting other patients. Great socialization experience.”

Though Robert is still on his recovery journey, he can’t wait to go home in the future and looks forward to walking again!