Meet Erv

In 2013 Erv experienced a life changing event… Erv fell from the roof of his home. Erv spent some time in the hospital, at Chicago VA. Upon his return home, he needed to continue therapy. It took some time, for him to find the right place. Thankfully, he discovered Life Beyond Barriers Rehabilitation Group through a friend. Erv notes that he has experienced a variety of therapists, but nothing like Life Beyond Barriers Rehabilitation Group. Erv talks about the gradual improvements he has made with therapy, but most of all it’s the therapist-to-client interaction that he very much enjoys. Through his experience, he has been able to see himself in a different light. Erv states that his biggest challenge has been his mindset in knowing what to expect.

Erv was introduced to the latest advanced functional electrical stimulation (FES) technology, easing his ability to use his upper extremities without thinking about it. As he understands it, this is neuroplasticity. He says, “Life Beyond Barriers stays updated and educated bringing in the latest edge of technology.”

Most recently, Erv took a big leap in his recovery. He went from his wheelchair, to walking with double canes! He admits he did not see this coming.

Warren’s Big Day

Warren Nelson, sustained a spinal cord injury a few years ago in early 2016, but he did not let that stop him from pursuing his dreams. Following his injury, he became very dedicated to recovery. He began therapy at Life Beyond Barriers Rehabilitation Group in Rockford and then transferred to the Traverse City location upon opening of the clinic. He currently attends twice per week, and also trains at Barwis on other days.

Warren met Ci’onna in March of 2017 while she worked for his family at BC Lanes. “She avoided me the first few weeks after I met her”, he chuckles. They began dating shortly after. On August 10, 2019 they tied the knot at Castle Farms. Warren stood for the entire ceremony, a full half hour and walked her down the aisle. “It’s hard to walk in a tux,” he said with a smile, not to mention there was a little bit of uneven turf with the brick terrain. Warren says he doesn’t have much for words, but he is so glad that it worked out. The weather turned out nice, a perfect 70 degrees. He had been working hard on this goal in therapy for a while. He wanted to be able to stand for his wedding ceremony and walk Ci’onna down the aisle. Take a look at his wedding video on our Facebook page. Thank you Warren for sharing your wedding day with us and being an inspiration to many.