Case #25: Trent (Pt. 2)
Symptomatic: A Medical Mystery Podcast
Deep Dive
What autoimmune disorder did Trent initially suffer from?
Trent was initially diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), an autoimmune disorder that attacks the nervous system.
What was the second autoimmune disease Trent was diagnosed with?
Trent was later diagnosed with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), which causes long-term muscle weakness and fatigue.
What were the consequences of Trent's spinal surgery?
The spinal surgery resulted in the severing of his T10 vertebra, increasing the risk of permanent paralysis from the waist down.
What event nearly took Trent's life after his spinal surgery?
Trent experienced two embolisms, which caused him to flatline and required emergency medical intervention.
How did Trent's service dog, Gunner, help him during his darkest moments?
Gunner prevented Trent from attempting suicide by removing a gun from his reach and staying by his side, providing emotional support.
What unconventional method did Trent use to rebuild his lung capacity?
Trent used music to retrain his lungs, helping him regain breathing rhythm and cope with pain.
What was Trent's first major physical achievement after years of paralysis?
Trent walked independently for the first time in years, using unconventional methods like golf balls, PVC pipe, and tape to assist his rehabilitation.
What significant endurance event did Trent complete after regaining mobility?
Trent completed a half Ironman, which includes a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run in a racing chair.
What message does Trent aim to spread through his athletic achievements?
Trent's mission is to spread hope, often giving away his medals to others and inspiring those facing similar challenges.
What advice does Trent offer to those facing overwhelming challenges?
Trent emphasizes the importance of choosing hope and finding purpose, even in the darkest times, to overcome adversity.
Shownotes Transcript