At 36 years old, Justin Cheeks never thought he would have the need for inpatient rehabilitation. However, in October 2022, Justin was found by his mom lying on the floor unable to move or speak.

Justin had a stroke and was treated at Greenville Memorial Hospital. He experienced right-side hemiparesis, or muscle weakness, and his speech was greatly affected. Justin and his family knew he had a long road to recovery, and that he would need rehabilitation so he could return home safely.

When his family began their search for inpatient rehabilitative care, his mother knew she wanted him close to home. Justin’s case manager told them about Spartanburg Rehabilitation Institute (SRI), sharing that the hospital was certified nationally in stroke rehabilitation. After researching the hospital, Justin and his family felt that SRI would be the best fit for his recovery.

Justin says he was nervous when he started rehabilitation. He had no idea what to expect, and he wasn’t sure if he could handle intense therapy. He says he quickly realized, however, that the decision to come to the hospital was the right one. “The entire staff was so caring and encouraging,” he says.

Justin worked with physical, occupational, and speech therapists for about four weeks to improve his speech and regain the strength he had lost on his right side.

Now that Justin is discharged from SRI, he continues to improve by participating in outpatient therapy.