Then in late 2004, Goldman was introduced to “Nessie.” Manufactured by Bioness, Inc., the Ness H200 (hence the nickname) is a neuroprosthetic and rehabilitation system designed to increase functional use of the hand, and minimize impairments and complications associated with central nervous system injuries. Little Company of Mary – San Pedro Hospital’s Rehabcentre is one of the first acute rehabilitation centers nationwide to use this pioneering technology.

 
The lightweight and portable exoskeletal device is worn on the hand and forearm. The device includes five electrodes positioned above certain muscles responsible for different forms of movement. Once fitted, it controls the function of the hand by a coordinated stimulation of nerves and muscles. It is ergonomically designed, aesthetically pleasing and can easily be put on and removed by its user, even if both hands are impaired.

“It seems to me that before I started using Nessie, I couldn’t move my fingers at all,” Goldman said. “Now I can move them all in succession. It’s truly amazing.”

 
Sydney Hanel, MA, OTR/L, Goldman’s Occupational Therapist at Little Company of Mary – San Pedro Hospital agrees.

“Audrey couldn’t really open or close her left hand, which limited her ability to perform routine daily tasks that require both hands,” Hanel said. “The stroke left her hand in a tight fist. But with the help of the Bioness neuroprosthesis, Audrey was able to break through what we call the flexion synergy pattern and achieve active movement of each individual finger. She is now able to use her left hand again. It’s an amazing accomplishment.”

Along with the rehabilitation staff and “Nessie,” Goldman credits her husband, daughters, housekeeper and aide, friends — and even her dogs with much of her recovery success.

“My husband immediately took charge of my rehabilitation, supervising every step in the process,” Goldman said. “At the time of my stroke, he had been retired for one year. This is definitely not the way we had planned to spend retirement. But he has been so supportive — taking on the grocery shopping and other tasks that I’m unable to perform right now. My daughters come in to town as often as they can to visit and see how I’m doing, and my housekeeper and aide, Ana, helps me a great deal. Then, there are all our friends who showed up with food and support. And, of course, there are Dezso and Max!”   Continue »

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