Logan Stirsman

Logan Stirsman seemed to be a typical twenty-something. He worked a full-time job in HVAC and enjoyed playing video games and spending time with his loved ones.

Then, one July night, Logan had to be rushed to the emergency room.

As it turns out, Logan was born with an arteriovenous malformation, or AVM. But no one knew until his brain began to bleed, and the 21-year-old faced a fight for his life.

Logan underwent brain surgery performed by Dr. Dale Ding, a neurosurgeon. Dr. Ding removed the AVM, as well as a blood clot the size of a fist. The surgery was successful, and Logan spent the next three days in the ICU. Once he moved to a general room, Logan began to discover the AVM’s effects. He struggled to find words when speaking and writing and noticed a significant change in his cognitive thinking.

As the medical staff continued to communicate with Logan’s family, the importance of inpatient rehabilitation became apparent. Logan’s mother reached out to Southern Indiana Rehabilitation Hospital (SIRH), hoping to move him closer to home for his therapy. Working with Leslie, a clinical liaison from SIRH assigned to Logan, they got him admitted to SIRH right away.

“The biggest reason I agreed to come to SIRH is that my dog could visit me in the courtyard,” Logan shared. Another key factor in Logan’s decision was the outpatient neuro rehab program offered at SIRH. Logan appreciated that he could continue his rehab needs at the same facility rather than go somewhere different after his inpatient stay.

After one week of intensive occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy, Logan discharged home. He continues to complete outpatient therapy and make significant progress in his recovery.

“I want to thank all the nursing and therapy staff for the wonderful care I received,” Logan stated. “Special thanks to my case manager, Trish, my liaison, Leslie, Diana from guest relations, Dr. Aggarwal, the medical director at SIRH, and Dr. Ding.”

Logan continues to look forward to what has motivated him during his recovery: getting back to his normal life, including driving, working, and playing video games. “I’m just ready to spend time with my girlfriend, dog, and the rest of my family,” he added with a smile.