In late August 2023, Abigail (“Abby”), a 43-year-old single mother from Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia, experienced a sudden and alarming neurological decline that led to an unexpected hospitalization. Initially, doctors suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but despite beginning treatment, Abby’s condition worsened—she began losing mobility from her ribcage down. Further evaluation revealed a more likely diagnosis: transverse myelitis.
Abby underwent plasmapheresis—a treatment that filters the blood to remove harmful antibodies that may be attacking the nervous system—and soon began her rehabilitation journey at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital (MNRH). There, she committed herself fully to an intensive inpatient rehabilitation program. By the time she was discharged in November 2023, Abby had made significant gains in mobility and bladder control.
Determined to continue her progress, she transitioned to outpatient therapy with MedStar Health Physical Therapy. Her ultimate goal? To walk again. Just days before Christmas 2023, Abby achieved a major milestone—she took her first unassisted step.
Motivated by each success, Abby steadily advanced from using a walker to crutches, and later, a rollator. By September 2024, she was confidently walking with a cane in her community. Now living independently with her 9-year-old daughter, Abby drives her to school each day—a simple act that symbolizes how far she’s come. Life is beginning to feel normal again, and Abby continues to inspire with every step forward.