Mike Fergus is a 76-year-old retired Navy veteran who worked as an automotive technician and aircraft mechanic. He lives in Greeley, Colorado, with his wife of 51 years, Margie. They have two children, 11 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren (with one on the way). A certified motorcycle mechanic, Mike enjoys building custom motorcycles and drag racing.

Recently, Mike was riding his motorcycle when he experienced difficulty due to pain and weakness in his arms, which made it hard for him to control his bike. He sought out medical care and was diagnosed with cervical spondylotic cord compression, a condition where wear and tear in the neck causes pressure on the spinal cord. To address this, he underwent surgery to stabilize his spine and relieve pressure on his spinal cord. Following surgery, he was placed on a ventilator for breathing support.

While still on a ventilator, Mike was transferred to Northern Colorado Long Term Acute Hospital (NCLTAH) for continued critical care. The hospital’s healthcare team managed his complex medical needs and eventually weaned him off the ventilator. “The staff took great care of me,” Mike says. “It was unbelievable how amazing the care was; the nurses were especially competent.”

After 68 days in NCLTAH, Mike transferred to Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital (NCRH) for inpatient rehabilitative care. He chose the hospital because it was close to home and had excellent reviews. During his time at NCRH, Mike worked toward his goal of riding his motorcycle again. “The therapists got me walking and encouraged me to keep going,” he says.

Three months after his surgery, Mike returned home. He is excited to be with Margie and is working with her on a home renovation. Eventually, he hopes to reach his ultimate goal of independently riding his motorcycle again.

“Everyone says I’m a miracle because I wasn’t expected to make it,” he says.