Michael Gaudet

When Michael Gaudet was first admitted to Northside Hospital, he was facing a life-threatening crisis. Serious kidney and heart complications had led to severe pneumonia. His blood pressure and oxygen levels dropped dangerously low, triggering a severe stroke. Doctors placed him on a ventilator and into a medically induced coma for several days while the medical team worked urgently to stabilize him.

When Michael awoke, he was confused and unable to get out of bed. CT scans revealed a brain bleed — and later, a second stroke. Despite the complexity of his condition, the team at Northside Hospital remained relentless in their care. They worked tirelessly to stabilize his heart, lungs, and kidneys. At one point, dialysis was being considered, but through careful evaluation and treatment, they were able to correct the issue and return his kidney function to normal levels.

“Northside Hospital truly saved my life,” Michael says.

A Turning Point

While still at Northside, Michael began therapy. There were concerns he might require long-term nursing home care if his progress did not improve. That’s when Dr. Weot from HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital Inpatient Rehab Unit stepped in.

Although Michael had been considered “low potential” due to the severity of his condition, Dr. Weot saw something more. She listened closely — both to Michael and to the Northside therapy team, who recognized encouraging signs in his recovery. Believing in his potential, she advocated for him and accepted him into the rehabilitation unit.

Michael and his family remain deeply grateful for her willingness to see beyond the circumstances and give him a chance to continue fighting toward recovery.

Surrounded by Care at HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital Inpatient Rehab Unit

When Michael arrived at HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital Inpatient Rehab Unit, he was still confused, unable to sit or stand independently, and struggling with feeding and vision challenges. Yet from the moment he arrived, he felt something powerful — unwavering support.

“The care was beyond anything we could have hoped for,” he recalls.

The nursing and therapy teams immediately surrounded him with encouragement, patience, and respect. Every individual — from nurses and therapists to housekeeping, cafeteria staff, and front desk personnel — played a role in his recovery journey.

“There’s an incredible culture on this floor,” Michael shares. “Everyone helps one another. Most of the time, I didn’t even know who my assigned nurse was because everyone pitched in.”

Rebuilding Independence

Michael credits much of his progress to his primary therapy team:

• Quinton (Physical Therapy), who challenged him with confidence and belief.
• Olivia (Occupational Therapy), whose patience and compassion never wavered.
• Becky (Speech Therapy), who encouraged him through every small but meaningful milestone.

Together, they helped Michael regain strength, independence, and confidence — step by step.

Home Again

Just three weeks later, Michael achieved what once seemed uncertain: he is returning home — to his own home — not to a nursing facility.

Looking back, what could have been a devastating chapter has become one filled with gratitude and hope.

“From Northside Hospital, to Dr. Weot, to the entire HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital Inpatient Rehab Unit team, it felt like I was carried by angels — lifted by their care, dedication, and encouragement every step of the way.”

Michael wishes he could name every person who touched his life during this journey, but the list would fill the page. Instead, he and his family offer their heartfelt thanks to the entire Northside Hospital and HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital Inpatient Rehab Unit teams.

Their compassion didn’t just treat a patient — it restored a life.