Texas County Memorial Hospital was a positive detour for Gary Yaekle, of Ohio, a patient who was displaying symptoms of a stroke in late August.
Gary and a fishing buddy, Larry McLane, of St. Louis, were passing through Houston when the event occurred. The planned trip included fishing in the area, continuing to Lake Taneycomo and then to Arkansas.
The two fishing buddies had done some fishing at Montauk State Park without much luck. They then proceeded to the Houston Walmart to shop for supplies when Gary began experiencing unusual arm and hand function. Fortunately, Walmart is very close to the TCMH emergency room.
Upon arrival at TCMH, Gary was quickly seen by emergency room physicians Paul Schaefer, DO; Donald Hockman, DO; and the TCMH emergency room staff.
“I saw the doctor in about 15 seconds,” Yaekle said. “From then on, I got some great care.”
Immediate CT scans were performed linked to the Rapid AI software. The software immediately read the information and enhanced collaboration with Level 1 stroke-designated Cox Hospital. After analysis, a neurologist diagnosed a transient ischemic attack (TIA), a mini stroke. Gary was transferred as an inpatient at TCMH for further monitoring, evaluation and care under William Errico, DO, and the TCMH medical-surgical staff.
“We went immediately to TCMH’s emergency room, and Gary ended up spending two nights there,” McLane added. “Every person we encountered – on every level of care – was extremely kind, helpful and professional. Medical-surgical registered nurse Amy Mills’ care for Gary was exemplary, and she was extremely helpful to me as we worked out the logistics for my return to Houston to pick Gary up after discharge,” he continued, extending his sincere thanks.
“Dr. Errico was great, and Amy and the medical-surgical staff were just terrific,” Yaekle shared.
Gary has continued to seek and receive the appropriate care upon his return to Ohio. He has begun therapy and will soon see a neurologist and cardiologist to assist with resolving any ongoing issues.
“You know I was lucky, and I was lucky to be at TCMH where every test was read and analyzed so quickly,” Yaekle said. “When you’re out of town, you don’t know what to expect. TCMH exceeded my expectations. It was a good experience in a bad situation.”
Be aware of the signs of a TIA or stroke and BEFAST – noting any differences in B (Balance) E (Eyes) F (Face) A (Arms) S (Speech) T (Time- to call 9-1-1 immediately or seek immediate care when experiencing stroke symptoms).