"With the epidural stimulator, I can stand, and I can move both my legs, toes and ankles. I'm working on doing
sit-ups and back extensions."
— Dustin Shillcox
Similar to Kent (study participant #2), Dustin was classified as sensory and motor complete after being
injured at T5. He was told he had no chance of recovery, but Dustin regained the same control of autonomic and motor
functions — proving the effectiveness of epidural stimulation in four out of four participants.
How were you injured?
"I was paralyzed from the chest down at age 26. I was in an accident because of a tire blowout — and I wasn't wearing my seatbelt. I was thrown from the vehicle. I broke my back, my sternum, elbow, four ribs, and had bleeding in my brain — they basically told me I'd never move my legs or walk, ever."
What was your life like before your injury?
"I loved to be outside doing anything — snowmachining was one of my favorite winter sports."
How has the epidural stimulation research changed your life?
"Well, I can go to the gym ... I can go snowmachining ... and I generally just feel stronger and better. I'm able to spend more time doing that kind of stuff with my family and friends, too. I feel incredibly lucky."
Rob, Kent, Drew and Dustin are living proof that epidural stimulation has the potential to be
effective for the millions living with paralysis and other conditions that impact movement.
The University of Louisville maintains a patient registry for individuals who are interested in participating in clinical research studies at the University. If you are living with paralysis and would like to learn more or be considered as a research participant, please add yourself to the registry.
Our goal is to fund epidural stimulation research in 36 new participants — men and women from a range of backgrounds — to prove its efficacy. Get in on the ground floor with what we believe will be the new cornerstone therapy by investing in the research now.