When Gary is riding his Schwinn Airdyne® stationary bike at home, he’s dutifully following his think physical therapist’s directions. “I got rid of that Elliptical machine. No way I could do that,” the 79-year-old points out. “And the physical therapists don’t want me messing with a treadmill. I’ll stick to my bike.”
Biking it is for the almost octogenarian who underwent quintuple bypass surgery three years ago. Sharon, his wife of 60 years, keeps her man on track with his twice a week physical therapy appointments at think.
“Gary was in rehab a month after surgery and since then has been using a walker,” Sharon, also 79, explains. “The think physical therapists are strengthening Gary’s legs so maybe he can eventually use his cane again.”
When Gary and Sharon saw the think building under construction and so close to their home in Central Omaha, they couldn’t wait for the medical offices to open in July 2015. The Omaha natives appreciate the easy-drive location and the convenience of the healthcare services they need in one building. But it’s the think staff that get the highest rating for the still much-in-love couple married when JFK and Jackie were America’s sweethearts.
Both Gary and Sharon are quick to applaud the entire think team they regularly interact with, including their podiatrist, Dr. Bradley Copple. Even though the physical therapy professionals sometimes tire out Gary in reaching his better mobility goals, he can’t say enough about them.
“Jessica and Heather are very good at explaining things and what they are going to do for me,” Gary shares. “They show me how I’m supposed to do the exercises. I try to do them the way they say.”
Sharon is quick to add, “The think therapists are very personable and Denise and Lisa at the physical therapy front desk are super sweet. If we know of somebody that needs physical therapy, we will definitely recommend think.”
At home, Sharon is the gentle prodder to keep Gary consistent with his home exercises and hopping on his Airdyne®. The sooner he completes his PT routine, the sooner they can both kick back and watch their sports teams.
Gary in particular loves the St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs and Creighton’s men and women’s basketball. Of course, Husker sports are on their much-watch list even though the football team has waned for several years.
“They’ll be back,” the long-time sports fan reassures with the same confidence he’s building to return to walking with just his cane. “They’ll be back.”