Message from Rob 8/
I must say that I am at somewhat of a loss to describe how incredibly grateful I am for the outpouring of love and support I’ve received since my accident. I have been deeply touched by all the prayers and good vibes being sent in my direction. Words fail me, so I’ll just say thank you. Keep ‘em coming!
I’ve been at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta since July 27, and the pace of my rehabilitation has quickened radically in the past few days. I won’t bore you with the details, but longer and longer sessions of PT, OT, and Recreational Therapy have become integral parts of my days, along with the many other services available here. I am more than pleased with quality of care being delivered, and feel so grateful to be in a place where everyone seems to care so deeply about my well-being and progress.
But I won’t say its been fun: it’s a lot of work, pain, and mental and physical exhaustion every day. I simply couldn’t do it without all the incredible support and help of my amazing wife Nancy, and my brother Karl. Both have been here since day one, and have never left my side. (Applause line).
Craig Marthensen in particular deserves a shout out for non-stop vigilance while I was in Erie. Visits from Jordan and Alex, numerous Chautauquans, several medical school classmates, Bob and Liz Schreiber, brothers and sisters in law here in Atlanta, my nephew William, and others have lifted my spirits more than anyone can imagine. I apologize for not listing everyone individually, but my narcotic-infused brain is not helping me at this moment.
The current expectation is that I will remain an inpatient here for the next 4 to 6 weeks, with some additional outpatient rehabilitation to follow either here or back home. My intention is to return to work as soon as my team feels it is possible.
Thanksagain to all of you who have shown your support and love in so many ways.
Comments (37)
You are such an inspiration! A car ran into me while I was riding my bike in March when I was in Florida. It shattered my right femur and I understand on a very small level that painful rehabilitation process. But with your amazing spirit, you will get through this and be an even stronger person, continuing to love life and giving back to others.. Lou & Frank
So glad to hear your rehab is going well. Stay strong Rob. We are proud of you. Ed R
AH RT staff are ready. Cheering you on.
Rob, it's great to hear from "you.". I appreciate the updates your family provides, but your update is so very grateful if to read. I've heard and read wonderful things about Shepard. Keep up the spirits and hard work. Prayers continue for you and your family. 💕
Larry and I think of you often and pray every day for your well-being and healing. You message is a gift to all and your voice comes through loud and clear. We know how others can lift you up during times of trial. You are blessed by many of those buoys in your life. Karma is returning to you, friend! Be well!
No pain no gain! Seriously Rob, I am really proud of you and so thankful for your spirit! You have too much good to do in life to give up. And especially, you have so many more fun days ahead!
Dr. K, you are truly an inspiration! With your determination and positive outlook, you will be do well. Sending healing thoughts and prayers for you as you progress through rehab!!!
So happy to hear of the progress, Rob. Keep up the good work! I know it's not a vacation, and it is a major goal to get back to work, but after you get back, take some time when you can to relax and enjoy family. You all deserve it.
You rock, Rob! Given who you are, it is not surprising to hear that you are slaying PT and OT. And it makes me happy to think you will be back to the Valley sooner than expected.
Good morning Rob from Chautauqua. Great to hear like so many things in your life, you are going to conquer this. We are all pulling for you and we pray for you and Nancy and your family every evening....Keep going!
U have such a positive attitude! I knew this would be a piece of cake for you! I’m sure there are many tough days but those will become less and less. So many good days ahead! Praying for u daily and missing u always! Much love Jenny
So glad to hear such a positive report. How's that beard doing? Santa Claus at the Christmas party? Seriously, we know many horse people who have been through Shepherd and they all came back with extremely positive results. Penny and I continue to send our thoughts and prayers to you and your family
So glad to hear your progress! Please continue these updates! You are in my thoughts and prayers daily. Much love to all, Stephanie
Dear Rob You probably can’t imagine the power of your message for all of us who have been thinking about you and praying for your recovery. What an inspiration you are. If there is anything at all we can do back here in Staunton to help as you plan your return, please keep us in mind. We are here and ready to help! With much love, K & B
Abbadabbadoooooo! Happy dance in this household for you! We're with you every step of the way! Hugs and kisses from someone you shepherded (pardon the pun) through the horrors of cancer treatment with caring and compassion. Coming right back atcher!
Rob, Peter and I are truly inspired by this uplifting message. And you can be absolutely assured that we and many, many others in Staunton and beyond continue to send prayers and positive thoughts your way. I know Jimmy and his family are keeping an eye on things at the house, but we are happy to help. Just say the word.
Rob - it’s been so uplifting to see your smile in recent pictures. Know that you are surrounded by love, support and prayers every day. Keep crushing all the rehab! I look forward to pouring you a nice wheat beer one of these days!
So good to read your note! Continue fighting through the tough days and nights knowing many prayers for your healing are being said for you. So thankful for all the many caregivers at Shepherd but also family members. One day at a time....
Thank you for the update. The plan sounds on point. More virtual hugs heading to you and yours.
Hi Rob! I just found out about your bike accident yesterday. It has been a while since we have talked, but my memories of you have always been good! I hope rehab is going well. Are you still in rehab? My thoughts are with you, prayers too! Cilla
So glad to hear you’re doing well in Atlanta! Keep up the hard work! Can’t wait to see you back at work doing what you love!!!
Rob, it is great to hear from you. I look forward to having beers with you next summer in the backyard of Southern Tier, listening to you give Vance crap.
Rob, We are so pleased that you are at Shepard. We've been there, seen the facilities and were greatly impressed. Your positive spirit and incredible support system are not a surprise to us. You and Nancy have always been amazing, inspiring friends. Keep up the good work. We think of you always, Mary and Steve
Rob, don’t forget the brownie cooking lessons as part of OT! Take care. John H
Rob- It sounds like a lot of hard work is going on accompanied by hard earned progress--and we all know that good things don't always come easily. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers all of the time. We so look forward to the day you return to work- but also understand that the rehab process has a timetable of its own- so NO WORRIES!! Please feel free to reach out any time- and I will email my mobile phone to you and Nancy as well. I am here for you. Much love, Mary Mannix
Rob, thanks for having me up there. Big shout out to Karl and Nancy. You guys deliver. I was not prepared for how matter-of-fact practical it all is there. You got a new body and let’s train you how to use it. If anyone is thinking about visiting then I just wanted to say that it is very easy to do so and they make you quite welcome at the center If anyone wants to send a card, flowers or candy to bribe the nurses: Robert Kyler c/o Shephard Center 2020 Peachtree Road, NW Atlanta, GA 30309-1465 Phone to use for UPS contact 404-352-2020 Later Go’brg John Petersen
You inspire us all with your amazing courage, positive attitude, and determination to get back to your life in Staunton. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers as you travel through this horrific challenge. You have already shown that you can and will come out on top. Your story and your fight have surely helped countless others to see the light at the end of the tunnel and to move forward with renewed spirit. Thank you for sharing. Barbara and Bob
Rob, Just a brief note of support and encouragement, to you and to Nancy and your family. Your fortitude, courage and Spirit of determination and mindfullness are an inspiration to the many many people in the community who love and respect you. We look forward to your return to the valley, and what your journey might teach us. Alden and Louise
Keep up the good work - I imagine you as a hero - doing warrior training! Thinking of you every day! Love, Melissa
I've thought of you and prayed for you and the family often over the last few weeks. Your accident so soon after your mother's passing just seems hard to deal with. It's good to hear your response to your therapy and rehab, and I pray for your recovery, giving thanks for your progress along the way. Blessings to you and your family.
Dr. Kyler, I just learned of this and am praying for you. Shepherd is a great place. I have a nephew and a coach friend who have been treated there and continue to thrive despite their challenges. You were always so positive and encouraging through my radiation treatments and I know you have the right mind set. You have also sent many clients to the cancer RX program and I appreciate all the referrals to help people stay active. Stay Strong, Sharon Spalding
Dr. Kyler Mrs. Henderson is still checking in on you to make sure you are doing good , she sends her Love & prayers , mom said now honey you know if I could get to that hospital I would come set with you and talk and give your wife & brother alittle break , but you know I’m there with you in thoughts and prays. Keep up the good work I know it’s hard on you but you and God got this. Mrs Helen Henderson Dr. Kyler my mom ask about you every day she ask how’s my doctor doing today 😀 We are keeping the prays coming Sandra Tram
Hi Rob! So glad to read your update - still thinking about you and sending lots of positive vibes your way all the time! You look great in the picture Karl posted with the baby! :)
Rob, I just learned about your accident this past weekend since I’m in TN but going back to Chautauqua Thursday. I left a message on your cell phone and talked a little while with one of your nurses in Va., I didn’t speak to either of your partners but she seemed to think they will manage ok no matter how long it takes for you to get back. I’m already sending lots of healing energy your way in meditation as I know others must be also. Call or Email when you get to feeling like it. All best, Brooks
Dear Rob, Heidi and I gratefully read your last comment and were so glad to see this message coming from you. We are so grateful that you can keep such a positive and uplifting attitude amidst all that you are going through... Since we first heard of your crash we have held you 'in the Light' and think of you each day and often at night when we need to open a extra window to let some cool air in our house. It has been abnormally hot here in Portland this summer and it seems there is no end in sight.... So do keep your positive mind going that way, dear Rob. I was going to add a photo that would make you laugh... and when I showed it to Heidi she told me to better not send it because you'd laugh so big that your healing ribs would probably moan loudly! So I will sound you something from our garden where strange and good things are happening. With love for you and your close family, Heidi and I are holding you 'in the Light'. hugs from your uncle - Peter
Rob - Steve Talley told me about your accident while he was on his way to Newfoundland. After reading your journal update, I sense that you have an incredible team of doctors, therapists, friends, and family there to help you work your way through this immense challenge. I can just imagine how difficult the rehab is, but I know how strong your commitment to physical fitness has been in the past, so I know you will do what you need to do to get back to work. I also sense that the spiritual side of Rob Kyler is probably working overtime, keeping you focused on what's important in life while also trying to make sense of this life changing event. Work hard, my friend, and I look forward to seeing you back in Staunton. Joe McCue
Robert, I am glad to hear that your rehabilitation is going well. The hard (and exhausting) work will pay off in the long run. You remain in my thoughts and prayers. Robin Sanders