Texas Health Stephenville Enhancing Neurological Services in Erath County

STEPHENVILLE, Texas - Trent Peterson has bittersweet memories of his son's birthday two years ago. Instead of celebrating life, the 48-year-old father was fighting for his own after suffering a stroke, a journey that took him to Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Stephenville and Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth.

His experiences motivated him to work with Texas Health Stephenville to start a support group and spread awareness about traumatic brain injuries, stroke and other neurological conditions.

"The community of Stephenville continues to grow, and that means an increase in patients needing our care, including individuals suffering from strokes. Unfortunately, Erath County doesn't have many support groups of any kind," said Necole McDaniel, B.S.N., R.N., TCRN, CEN, stroke coordinator for Texas Health Stephenville. "I'm a firm believer that things happen in their own perfect timing. This collaboration with Mr. Peterson is the epitome of Texas Health partnering with individuals for a lifetime of health and well-being."

McDaniel spoke with Peterson about the major adjustments after a stroke, McDaniel said. "They need help navigating this new journey."

Over the past two years Peterson became a full-time advocate.

"After the stroke, it felt like I lost myself and I was fighting against everything that used to be natural to me," Peterson said. "Surviving is one thing, but getting better is a new battle. I want others to know they don't have to fight alone."

McDaniel and the Petersons hope the support group will provide comfort, connection and an improved quality of life for stroke and brain injury patients and their families.

"We want to connect with residents in Erath County, Johnson County and everywhere in between," said Claudia Eisenmann, MBA, FACHE, Texas Health Stephenville president. "Providing necessary resources close to home is important, but making sure care is given with empathy and proficiency matters above all else."

Peterson describes himself not as a stroke survivor but as a warrior. And he appreciates the opportunity of collaborating with Texas Health Stephenville to raise stroke awareness in the community.

"Our prayer is that this support group will be a comfortable environment to love and learn within our community," Peterson said. "Whether you're a survivor, warrior, caretaker or just want to help others, this is an opportunity to be part of something bigger than yourself."

To learn more about services offered at Texas Health Stephenville, click here.