Patient Stories

After a stroke left Jack "Papa Jack" O'Steen living with aphasia and apraxia, he and his wife, Linda, set a new goal: help Jack lead a prayer at church again. With years of support, Jack is rebuilding his words line by line — and finding his way back to the words that matter most.

When Daphna Cooley was hospitalized with sepsis following breast cancer treatment, a respiratory therapist found a creative way to include her beloved stuffed bear, Mr. Polar, in her care — bringing comfort to Daphna and reassurance to her granddaughters miles away.

After losing his first opportunity for a heart transplant, Wendell received a second call that changed everything — and gave him back the life he loves.

After unexpected digestive symptoms led to a colonoscopy at age 46, Jamey Tidwell was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer. With the support of his wife, family and community — and a daily tradition of encouragement — Jamey is sharing his story to remind others to listen to their bodies and get screened, because 45 is the new 55 when it comes to colon cancer prevention.

After missing the critical treatment window for his stroke, Wayne lost not only his strength but his independence, including his role as caregiver to his elderly mother. Through inpatient rehab at TriStar Summit, he committed fully to recovery, rebuilding his strength and confidence with the support of his care team.

After years of hoping for motherhood, April welcomed her daughter Knoxley at 32 weeks in an emergency delivery.

Two twins who were born at 24 weeks make amazing strides through the help of TriStar Summit Outpatient Rehab team and facility.

After years battling heart failure — including a lifesaving transplant — Thomas Groves II transformed his journey from patient to caregiver, now serving others in the cardiac cath lab with the same compassion that once carried him through.

A Wilson County woman shares her experience receiving compassionate cardiology care, and the angels who aided her in that journey.

Michelle Molden, a former healthcare strategist, was diagnosed with breast cancer despite normal mammograms.