Community Corner

Insurance Company Kicks Bryan Stow Out of Rehab

Bryan Stow's rehabilitation has taken a sad turn, according to an update from his family.

Funding for the paramedic and Giants fan who was assaulted at the Los Angeles Dodgers' home opener two years ago, has been cut and he has had to return home. He was making progress at the Centre for Neuroskills in Bakersfield, according to the family's update.

But now, the family has to pay for his 24-hour support, which includes getting him showered and out of bed. The lack of rehabilitation services has cut his ability to overcome mental and physical challenges and pain.

"Even though it was 4 hours away, we felt it was the best fit for Bryan," the family wrote of the Bakersfield treatment center. "He received all forms of rehab every day, all while living in an apartment complex with 24 hour care. One of the four of us was with him every day. 

"After a long two years of being away from home, the insurance company has ceased payment for CNS, so Bryan has come home. Let us clarify something very important -Bryan could have benefited greatly by staying at CNS longer. 

"We are so glad to have him home, but as prepared as we thought we were, it was a difficult transition," the family wrote on support4stow.com. "Bryan requires so much assistance and it is impossible for Ann and Dave to do it alone. Bryan requires 24 hour nursing care, but this is not covered by insurance. So we had to hire care givers in order to help Bryan to get up and showered in the morning, and get dressed and in bed in the evening. We are now the ones administrating his medical care, scheduling all his appointments, and preparing all his meals. We are not complaining…we have Bryan home!

However, here is the bad news.

"At first look and during conversations, Bryan appears to be doing better, cognitively. But to be with him as much as we are, we see what others don’t. The memory problems, the use of words that do not belong, the pain he is in and the stiffness in his body that prevents him from being able to do things on his own. Due to a huge cut in therapy coverage, Bryan has physically experienced a big setback. We do what we can at home, but he needs the 5 days a week that he grew accustomed to. We just don’t know how to get that for him."

You can donate here. 


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here