Recovery Journey Begins
Paralyzed Athletics Prospect Ryan Lasko Leaves New Jersey Rehabilitation Hospital
Anonymous
Athletics minor-league prospect Ryan Lasko, 24, has been discharged from a New Jersey rehabilitation hospital more than two months after an outfield collision left him paralyzed from the chest down. Lasko fractured his C6 and C7 vertebrae in the June 30 collision while playing for Double-A Midland and underwent spinal surgery in Texas. After a celebratory farewell at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, he returned to his New Jersey home and will continue outpatient therapy, with additional rehabilitation visits expected. Lasko’s right arm remains weaker, but he has begun experiencing tingling and some sensation in his legs and feet as he remains hopeful about his recovery. He said he is focusing on patience and the present because doctors have told him the rehabilitation process is only beginning.
Key Points
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Lasko and right fielder Devin Taylor were chasing a sinking fly ball toward the right-field gap when they dove and collided at full speed. Lasko remained on the field for about 10 minutes before being taken away on a stretcher.
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After the collision, Lasko underwent spinal decompression and stabilization surgery at a hospital in Plano, Texas, before being transferred to the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey.
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Although Lasko is returning home to Jackson, New Jersey, he is expected to spend significant additional time at Kessler in the coming months for continued rehabilitation and outpatient therapy.
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The Athletics ranked Lasko No. 18 among their prospects, and he was batting .209 with six home runs and 34 RBIs in 73 games for Double-A Midland before the injury.
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The Athletics marked his discharge on social media, writing: “Ryan is heading home today after spending time in a rehab facility and he received a special surprise clap out from everyone along the way! He will begin out patient therapy and continue his journey to recovery.”
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