Abacoa & Alton Neighbors - May 2025

M AY 2 0 2 5 | A B A C O A & A LT O N N E I G H B O R S 7 P ierre Rodriguez knew something wasn’t right while driving on a Wednesday afternoon in October 2023. It concerned him enough that he pulled over and called 911 for medical help. “I experienced extreme twitching and spasms in my left eye, then my vision became blurry, and I felt lightheaded,” explains Rodriguez, 57, of Royal Palm Beach. That quick decision might have saved his life. QUICK INTERVENTION BY ER TEAM Rodriguez was having an ischemic stroke, which occurs when a blood clot interrupts blood flow to a region of the brain. He arrived at Wellington Regional Medical Center at 4:48 p.m. Within minutes, he received Tenecteplase (TNK), a blood- thinning medication used to treat a stroke caused by a blood clot, so normal blood flow can resume. “Because Pierre knew the signs and symptoms of stroke, called 911 instead of ignoring his symptoms or driving himself to the ER, he saved his own life,” says Dr. Jacob Chachkes, an emergency physician who cared for Rodriguez. “Quick response made all the difference in the outcome.” CARE AND RECOVERY Rodriguez spent three days in the hospital. Thanks to the stroke team’s fast work, Rodriguez suffered BUSINESS PROFILE - Submitted by Matthew Woolam - no lasting neurological damage. He is grateful to all of the medical staff at the hospital who cared for him during his stay. “My experience was exceptional,” he says. “The ER staff, the ICU team, all the nurses, doctors, imaging and lab folks were kind, attentive and knowledgeable.” Rodriguez adds, “When it comes to healthcare, it's all about the people, and Wellington Regional has good people.” Rodriguez isn’t alone in his accolades for the hospital. Wellington Regional Medical Center received a Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification from DNV, reflecting the highest level of accreditation for treatment of serious stroke events. To learn more about our stroke services, visit wellingtonregional.com/stroke. SWIFT ACTION OF ER TEAM SAVES STROKE PATIENT Physicians are on the medical staff of Wellington Regional Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Wellington Regional Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.