Article Library Video Library Definitions

Occupational Therapist Helps Stroke Survivor Achieve Dream Proposal

Author

FOX Rehabilitation - MSC

For more information about the author, click to view their website: FOX Rehabilitation

Posted on

May 20, 2026

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties

Email US

Click to Email Us

"It's so special to be a part of making dreams a reality for someone," occupational therapist Amanda Cable tells PEOPLE

After months of occupational therapy, a stroke survivor was able to propose to his girlfriend using his affected hand.

Last August, Carl Haydel, 59, was hit by a car, which resulted in a stroke. Four months later, he began working with FOX Rehabilitation's Amanda Cable, 29, for on-site occupational therapy at the assisted living facility The Claiborne at Baton Rouge, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. During a therapy session in early February, Haydel walked in with a smirk on his face and a "secret mission."

Haydel and his then-girlfriend, Rachel Dingle, had "informally" discussed marriage, but he wanted to make it a "formal thing." The pair knew each other in high school in the '80s, but didn't reconnect until about a year ago. Despite being together for just a few months when Haydel's accident happened, Dingle stuck by his side and has continuously supported him. So, he wanted his proposal to her to be extra special.

"I decided to really make it special with the help of Amanda," Haydel tells PEOPLE.

Haydel told Cable his secret plan to propose to Dingle in front of a "LOVE" sign in downtown New Orleans on April 11, the day before her 60th birthday. To pull it off, he needed her to help him regain his strength and coordination to kneel, hold the ring and create a meaningful gift using his affected hand.

"We were over the moon for him as his therapy team," Cable tells PEOPLE. "And I was ready to help prepare and use this idea as goals for our therapy sessions. It was everything that OT (occupational therapy) is — meaningful and functional. I couldn't wait to help him plan and make this proposal a reality."

After discussing all the details, Haydel and Cable came up with a plan and worked together to execute it.

"We broke down the steps of kneeling, pulling out the ring from his backpack, holding the ring box, and being able to hand her the ring," Cable explains, adding, "We also discussed the reality of nerves for the day of and said it would be nice to have a small speech prepared. We had worked a lot on typing, fine motor control and use of both hands for functional tasks in our OT sessions, so this was a perfect functional goal for us to work toward."

Haydel's "incredibly sweet" speech reads: "Rachel, you have done so much for me and you have brought me back to life. I want to take care of you for the rest of my life. I love you. Will you marry me?"

Because Haydel wanted to tell Dingle "I love you" in Hebrew, Cable suggested it would be "thoughtful" for him to use his affected hand to trace and frame the words as an engagement gift.

She used Google Translate to create a clear, traceable template for Haydel. Although the Hebrew ended up actually being backward, Cable says, "The thoughtfulness and hard work he put into that gift speaks volumes."

Haydel was admittedly "very nervous" before popping the question, but luckily, Dingle said yes. He remembers, "She was certainly surprised. She wasn't expecting it."

Cable says she's "so proud" of her patient.

"When he accomplished the 'secret mission' and she said yes, it was so rewarding," Cable tells PEOPLE. "The reason I became an OT was because of moments and opportunities like this. It's so special to be a part of making dreams a reality for someone. I don't think that feeling will ever get old."

She continues, "I know they are going to have a beautiful life together, and I am so happy to know that after everything Carl has been through, he gets a happy ending and a lifetime of love and happiness."

Cable and FOX Rehabilitation shared a video compilation of Haydel's therapy sessions on Instagram, writing in part, "He progressed from being wheelchair bound with little to no use of his right hands... to being able to get down on one knee to pop the question! 💪." The post has more than 260,000 likes.

"I just can't emphasize what therapy has done for me and all of the team, but particularly Amanda," Haydel tells PEOPLE. "She really stepped up to the task and made it special for me."

To view the original version of this article visit foxrehab.org/news/stroke-survivor-love-story/
Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.

Other Articles You May Like

Understanding Your Digital Footprint

Digital what? Footprint? You may be thinking thats what you leave behind at the beach. While that may be correct, it is also what you leave behind every time you provide your email, set up a new online account, or allow your data to be tracked. Your digital footprint is the trail you leave behind with Location services on your phone. It is the data you leave behind when commenting on Aunt Sallys Facebook page, sharing your familys vacation pictures on Instagram, or traipsing around the internet to various sites looking for that cute Lladro figurine your mother wanted for Christmas. All of it tells something about you whether you realized it was happening or not.Most of the time, the sharing of your data what you do, how you do it, etc. may not be a big deal. Or is it? The reality is that your data supports big business every day. It is collected, bought and sold (mostly without your knowledge) by data brokers (i.e., Acxiom, Epsilon), credit and identity bureaus (i.e., Experian, Equifax, TransUnion), and Big Tech Companies (i.e., Google, Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, Apple) that share your data with their partners and ad networks.The danger to you is when there is a data breach at one of the many sites that has your data and your data is captured and posted on the dark web. This enables nefarious characters to better target you for scams and potentially steal your identity. Call Lily in the Details today 941-237-0157 and schedule Understanding Your Digital Footprint, Navigating the Online World Safely and Wisely for your community.

Serving America and our community

By Dr. David RiceSouthwest Florida is home to more than 100,000 veterans, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.They own homes, manage businesses and pay taxes here. They volunteer at local nonprofits and donate to local causes. They are the core of our community.Nearly every day, at least one veteran walks into Advocate Radiation Oncology for treatment. Cancer impacts people from every background, including veterans. Even the most hardened veterans struggle with a cancer diagnosis, which is understandable; no one is invincible and cancer generates a wave of emotions shock, anxiety, frustration, fear and stress.Over the years, veterans in Charlotte and Sarasota counties have found an ally inside the treatment room Dr. Brian Lawenda. A board-certified, Harvard-trained physician who completed medical school at Temple University, Lawenda has all the credentials to help a patient feel confident that they're in good hands, medically speaking. Then they find out something else about their physician. He is a veteran, too, having served this country 13 years with the U.S. Navy and attaining the rank of commander."When I enlisted, I took an oath to serve this country and uphold the U.S. Constitution," Lawenda said. "When I became a doctor, I pledged to dedicate my practice to patients and the community I serve, and it's especially gratifying when those patients are fellow veterans."The best doctors don't just treat symptoms; they connect with patients, usually through shared experiences they're from the same state, cheer for the same sports team or attended the same university. Lawenda's military experience helps create an instant doctor-patient bond that continues during treatment and beyond. In fact, Lawenda has become the region's go-to radiation oncologist for veterans, not just Navy veterans, but those who have admirably served across all six branches of the military."When he told me he served in the Navy, it gave me comfort," said Ret. Command Master Chief Scott Fusco, a North Port resident who recently completed prostate cancer treatments at Advocate. "I had absolute trust in him from that point on."Lawenda wasn't the only veteran on Fusco's care team, either. His urologist also served in the Navy and referred Fusco to Dr. Lawenda for treatment."We served at different times and places, but we're all part of the same team," Fusco said. "They've been there, done that, just like me. There is instant respect, instant trust."Lawenda, who sees patients at Advocate's cancer treatment centers in Port Charlotte and Venice, specializes in the treatment of prostate, lung, breast, head and neck, rectal, liver, bone, cervical and other types of cancers. Although Lawenda doesn't technically specialize in the treatment of veterans, he is especially proud to support patients like Fusco on their cancer journey."A veteran may retire or end their military service, but he or she will never stop serving this country and their community," Lawenda said. "Being able to help local veterans beat cancer is extremely gratifying and certainly rewarding. The military is a brotherhood and a sisterhood, and I'll continue fighting for my brothers and sisters."About the AuthorDr. David Rice is a board-certified radiation oncologist who sees patients through Advocate Radiation Oncologys cancer treatment centers in Port Charlotte and Venice. Visit AdvocateRO.com for more information.

Living Well with Diabetes: How Exercise & Therapy Can Help

Managing diabetes is more than watching your blood sugar. Its about staying active, maintaining your strength, and continuing to enjoy the activities you love.Diabetes affects millions of older adults and can have a significant impact on overall health, mobility, and independence. As we age, managing diabetes becomes especially important because it can increase the risk of falls, nerve damage, muscle weakness, and other health complications.The good news? With the right support, regular physical activity, and a personalized treatment plan, older adults living with diabetes can take meaningful steps toward better health and a more active lifestyle.Why Is Exercise So Important for Diabetes?When you have diabetes, your body has difficulty regulating blood sugar levels. Physical activity helps your muscles use glucose for energy, which can improve blood sugar control.Regular exercise can also help:Improve muscle strength: Maintain the strength needed for walking, climbing stairs, and completing everyday activities.Improve blood sugar management: Help your body use insulin more effectively.Support heart health: Improve circulation and help manage blood pressure.Improve balance: Reduce the risk of falls and injuries.Maintain independence: Make daily activities such as dressing, bathing, cooking, and shopping easier.Increase energy and confidence: Help you feel stronger and more comfortable staying active.Even small amounts of movement throughout the day can make a difference!How Can Physical and Occupational Therapy Help?For many older adults, beginning an exercise program can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with joint pain, weakness, balance problems, or other medical conditions.Thats where FOX Rehabilitation can help.FOX provides personalized physical and occupational therapy designed to help older adults safely improve their mobility, strength, and ability to perform everyday activities.A physical therapist can evaluate your walking, balance, endurance, and muscle strength to develop an exercise program that meets your individual needs.An occupational therapist can help you find safer, easier ways to perform everyday tasks while improving your ability to remain independent at home.Together, these professionals can help address the physical challenges associated with diabetes, including decreased sensation in the feet, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance.The Benefits Go Beyond Blood SugarResearch has shown that structured exercise programs can help people with Type 2 diabetes improve their blood sugar control, preserve muscle mass, and increase overall strength.Regular physical activity may also improve blood pressure and reduce the risk of certain diabetes-related complications.Most importantly, staying active can help older adults maintain the freedom to do what matters most whether thats spending time with grandchildren, enjoying a walk with friends, gardening, or simply moving safely around their homes.Therapy That Comes to You!One of the greatest benefits of FOX Rehabilitation is that therapy can take place right in the comfort of your own home.FOX provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy through Medicare Part B for eligible individuals.You do not have to be homebound or recently hospitalized to receive services.This means older adults who may benefit from skilled therapy can receive personalized care in their familiar surroundings without having to travel to an outpatient clinic.Take the First Step Toward Better HealthLiving with diabetes doesnt mean giving up the activities you enjoy. With proper management, regular movement, and professional guidance, you can continue building strength, improving mobility, and maintaining your independence.Before beginning a new exercise routine, speak with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have diabetes-related complications or take medications that can cause low blood sugar.Remember: Its never too late to get stronger, move better, and take control of your health!

View Details

FOX Rehabilitation

Parkinsons and MS Therapy , , ,

FOX Rehabilitation is a clinician-owned, mission-driven healthcare organization dedicated to rehabilitating lives by believing in the strength of older adults. Founded with a commitment to abolishing ageism and elevate the standard of care for aging individuals, FOX delivers evidence-based rehabilitation services designed specifically for the older adult population. Their patient-centered approach emphasizes dignity, independence, and meaningful outcomes that improve overall quality of life.Comprehensive Therapy ServicesFOX Rehabilitation provides a full continuum of therapy services, primarily delivered in the comfort of patients homes and within senior living communities, allowing individuals to receive care where they feel safest and most comfortable.Physical Therapy (PT)Physical therapy services focus on improving mobility, balance, strength, endurance, and pain management. FOX physical therapists develop individualized treatment plans to help patients safely perform daily activities, reduce fall risk, recover from injury or illness, and maintain independence for as long as possible.Occupational Therapy (OT)Occupational therapists at FOX help patients regain or maintain the ability to perform essential activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, grooming, meal preparation, and home management. Services also include home safety assessments, adaptive equipment recommendations, energy conservation strategies, and caregiver education to support long-term functional success.Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)Speech-language pathologists evaluate and treat conditions related to speech, language, cognition, voice, and swallowing. These services support improved communication, memory, problem-solving skills, and safe swallowing, while also educating patients and caregivers to promote confidence and overall wellbeing.Exercise PhysiologyFOXs exercise physiology services focus on promoting strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health through individualized fitness programs. These services help older adults improve physical performance, prevent functional decline, and support overall wellness with guidance tailored to their abilities and goals.FOX Wellness ProgramsFOX Wellness programs are designed to help older adults maintain and build upon progress made during skilled therapy. These programs encourage continued physical activity and healthy habits to reduce the risk of falls, pain, chronic conditions, and mobility loss. Wellness services are available to individuals who may not require skilled therapy or who want ongoing support beyond traditional rehabilitation.Patient Experience and CoverageFOX Rehabilitation accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicare Advantage, for medically necessary therapy services. Their team assists with benefit verification and care coordination, while also offering private-pay wellness options for individuals without insurance coverage or physician referrals.With a strong focus on clinical excellence, compassion, and individualized care, FOX Rehabilitation empowers older adults to move better, live independently, and confidently age in place.

View Details