Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, 355 East Erie Street, Chicago, IL (2026)

01/14/2026

With a hitting Chicago, you may be reaching for your shovel! ❄️ Before you head outside to clear the sidewalk, read expert advice from one of our physical therapists at our Northbrook Outpatient Center on how to stay safe while shoveling and reduce your risk of injury and strain: bit.ly/4bzCUvx

01/09/2026

After experiencing a stroke, patients turn to our experts to regain function and independence so they can return to the active lives they love. For Lisa T. (pictured left), that return included enjoying a very meaningful moment a few years into her stroke recovery: taking to the dance floor for a special mother-daughter dance at her daughter’s wedding!

Previously, Lisa had experienced a stroke and aphasia, which greatly impacted her ability to communicate. She came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for outpatient therapy, with a focus on speech-language therapy, and joined our aphasia community groups to find her voice again. These days, Lisa lives independently and enjoys yoga, crafting, going to the movies, spending time with family and, of course … dancing!

“I say to myself, you should be grateful that you woke up this morning because your next breath is not promised to you. Having the opportunity to go to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab was the biggest blessing. I cannot thank them enough,” said Lisa.

Read Lisa’s story to learn more about her recovery and life after stroke. bit.ly/450ja07

12/31/2025

As we turn the page on 2025, we reflect with gratitude on countless special moments at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab — moments of healing, hope and ability that remind us what's possible when the best care and science come together to support our patients' journeys.

Here’s to millions of more moments in the year ahead. Happy New Year and best wishes for 2026! Learn more about Shirley Ryan AbilityLab: sralab.org

12/29/2025

Donate to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab before the end of the year to help patients like Tracy D. return to the activities that bring them joy — like running!

Nearly a decade ago, Tracy was training for the marathon when she had a stroke. Two years later, after making a full recovery, she was hit by a car during a run — sustaining a traumatic brain injury. After undergoing intensive physical, occupational and speech therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, we helped her get back to what she loves most: RUNNING! She’s since run on our marathon team three times, raising funds to advance our mission.

Along the way, Tracy has benefited from our markerless motion capture technology, helping her run better and faster. This past June, she set a new personal record in a half marathon. She has been able to lift 20 pounds during bicep curls — something she never would have considered when she was doing therapy for her arm.

Support patients like Tracy this holiday season by making a donation: https://bit.ly/4pZTSI3

12/23/2025

Santa paid a special visit to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, delivering presents and good cheer to young patients on our pediatric floor. Thank you to everyone who helps make the season brighter for kids who are away from home for the holidays.❤️

12/22/2025

No one expects to experience a life-changing injury but, when they do, many turn to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for their recovery. Now, as 2025 comes to a close, make a donation to ensure patients like Chuy G. can achieve their best outcomes.

Chuy lives in Minnesota with his wife, Irene, and six children. He is a diesel mechanic, and he underwent a double amputation following a severe workplace accident. He then came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for extensive rehabilitation as an inpatient and in DayRehab, and he was fitted with a custom prosthetic arm and leg, which we taught him how to use.

Since going home, Chuy has met several milestones, both big and small — standing with his daughter for prom photos and helping his kids tie their shoes while using his prosthetic arm.

Today, Chuy typically uses a wheelchair to get around. He cooks dinner for his family on occasion and is focused on eventually walking around the block with his kids or going to the grocery store without a scooter. He is grateful for how his Shirley Ryan AbilityLab physical therapist, occupational therapist and psychologist helped him through his hardest days.

Make a donation to support patients like Chuy as they continue their recovery journeys: https://bit.ly/4s5NTCZ

12/19/2025

Mark your calendars for Art in Motion 2026!

Join the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Associate Board on Friday, Feb. 27, for a lively cocktail party and auction featuring artwork created by current and former patients. Proceeds will benefit our Art Therapy and Therapeutic Recreation programs. We're excited to once again host this event at our hospital.

Buy your tickets now at sralab.org/artinmotion

12/17/2025

“Honestly, I wasn't sure I wanted to pursue cancer treatment before I got to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. I felt hopeless and didn't imagine how I could move forward from that point. Shirley Ryan AbilityLab changed everything, and I'm feeling so much better about my future now.”

In a matter of weeks, Sherri W.’s world changed drastically. She first learned she had terminal brain cancer, and then she came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for intensive therapy to regain mobility, speech and independence after surgery to remove a brain tumor.

During her time with us, Sherri discovered a new passion: adaptive cycling. She also discovered a new worldview about embracing — and enjoying — a strong quality of life amid a cancer diagnosis.

Read Sherri’s story to learn more about her journey and cancer rehabilitation: bit.ly/4qcMDfl

12/16/2025

Give to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab this holiday season so our youngest patients, like Andrew M., can achieve their best outcomes as they grow and develop.

Andrew was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as an infant, due to a lack of oxygen at birth. Since then, he has participated in a research study at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab that will contribute to our knowledge of movement and underscores the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. He’s also benefited from intensive therapy with the support of his parents, Adam and Betsy, who have learned and been able to reinforce therapeutic interventions at home.

Andrew is continuing to meet important milestones today! He walks on his own more often without any support. And, he is preparing for his biggest adventure yet — becoming a big brother this coming winter!

Your donation gives patients like Andrew hope for a bright future. Give today: bit.ly/3MD30n4

12/15/2025

Give the gift of fitness this holiday season! Treat the runner or golfer in your life to our exclusive discounts at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.

Our one-time running assessment is now available for just $150, and our golf assessment — now $250 — will help golfers get their swing ready for the links. Both programs are led by our expert physical therapists and exercise physiologists, ensuring top-notch guidance and support.

Don’t miss out — these special discounts are available through the end of December! Call 312.238.5001 to book now.

12/12/2025

Caring for body, mind and spirit: a hat trick in healing!

The Chicago Blackhawks recently stopped by to cheer on our youngest patients in their rehabilitation journeys. Together, we unveiled our fully renovated Chicago Blackhawks Foundation Playroom, a dedicated space in our Pediatric Innovation Center designed to bring comfort and confidence to the recovery process.

Players then jumped in for games and activities with patients — from coloring with the kids to enjoying hallway bike races and sled hockey.

“Our aim is to help people heal — body, mind and spirit,” said Pablo Celnik, MD, CEO of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. “This playroom renovation for our youngest patients represents more than a design upgrade — it’s a tool for healing, and we are so thankful for the longstanding support provided through our friends at the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation.”

12/10/2025

By donating to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab this holiday season, you enable our scientists to lead groundbreaking rehabilitation research that benefits patients like Michele L.

More than 20 years ago, Michele survived a severe car accident, sustaining a spinal cord injury with paralysis from the neck down and very limited movement. Since then, she has engaged in intensive rehabilitation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and, as a power wheelchair user, has participated in our research studies — testing our autonomous wheelchair and more.

Today, Michele champions accessibility and disability rights. She’s been a leading voice in helping Chicago’s transit system receive funding to become more accessible; she recently participated in the Chicago Disability Pride Parade and spoke on a panel about ableism; and she advocates for accessible sidewalks in Chicago.

Your support transforms what’s possible for patients like Michele. Give today: bit.ly/3XMY5SN

12/08/2025

Join us for a monthly online group for individuals with ABI and cognitive or communication challenges. This is a welcoming space to share your experiences, hear others’ stories and build community.

Learn more and sign up: bit.ly/4rLbU1S

12/03/2025

In this season of giving, your gift to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab helps patients like Mitch W. reclaim independence and discover new passions after a life-changing injury.

Mitch, a firefighter and paramedic, sustained a severe spinal cord injury and paralysis in 2021. After weeks of inpatient therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, he was discharged on what was supposed to be his wedding day to his fiancée, Sarah. Four years later and now married, he and Sarah have welcomed their first child, Emmalina Rose. Shirley Ryan AbilityLab also has helped Mitch — now a wheelchair user — discover a love of competitive wheelchair rugby.

As part of your holiday giving, make a donation to help patients like Mitch: bit.ly/4rC5vpx

12/01/2025

"Kyle had the stroke four days after we got married. Yes, the stroke happened to Kyle, but the stroke also happened to me. And the stroke happened to us.”

Michelle D. reflects on her experience as her husband, Kyle C., recovered from a rare brainstem stroke that caused locked-in syndrome. As Kyle relearned how to walk, talk and use his hands, Michelle relearned what it means to be strong. Together, they moved forward.

THANK YOU to all of the caregivers who — like Michelle — provide unwavering support throughout their loved ones’ rehabilitation journeys.

Read our blog for Kyle and Michelle’s story: bit.ly/48cTjmo

11/19/2025

With the busy holiday travel season right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to share helpful tips about air travel for those with limited mobility. To learn more, follow along with Michael G. — who goes by Gio — for a special trip to the airport!

Gio came to us for intensive rehabilitation after experiencing a spinal cord injury, and he recently joined our recreational therapy team for a “community reintegration” visit to Chicago O'Hare International Airport.

Our airport trips, a collaboration with United Airlines, provide patients with limited mobility an opportunity to practice all aspects of air travel before transitioning home after rehabilitation — and to learn about accessibility in different environments.

During Gio’s visit to the airport, he gained real-world travel skills in a community setting — learning how to board and deplane; transfer from his wheelchair to an aisle chair; access his seat and the restroom; and navigate the airport security screening process.

Visit our blog to learn more about recreational therapy and our community reintegration offerings: bit.ly/4oPMGh3

11/13/2025

“We can keep going.”

Declan C. started coming to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab as an outpatient after receiving an early diagnosis of cerebral palsy (CP) at 18 months old. Now, at age 7, he recently completed intensive inpatient rehabilitation after a life-changing surgery to address muscle spasticity caused by CP — and he continues in DayRehab to improve his mobility, function and independence.

Through it all, Declan’s curiosity and determination have continued to shine brightly.

Watch Declan reach his biggest milestone yet, and read his full patient story to learn what’s possible when science, hard work and hope come together: bit.ly/47Eh1cd

11/12/2025

For Diabetes Awareness Month this November, our expert exercise physiologists are sharing insights about how movement, strength and mindfulness are key for effective diabetes management.

Read our blog for more on the health benefits of yoga and exercise for people living with diabetes and learn about our diabetes and fitness education classes: bit.ly/4nS02YH

11/11/2025

Throughout her 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Molly experienced a series of spine injuries, and, due to progressive complications, she became partially paralyzed. Not only did these setbacks end her career; Molly also was told she would never be able to play sports again.

Then, Molly discovered Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s military sports camp — open to both veterans and active duty service members with a primary physical disability. The experience transformed her life as she learned to ride a recumbent bike and found camaraderie among fellow veterans and service members.

In honor of Veterans Day, read Molly’s full story to learn how military sports camp helped her rediscover fitness and find community: bit.ly/4oRKi9D

11/06/2025

“It’s all worth it because this is a new lease on life,” said Dean C.

After being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, 29-year-old musician Dean immediately began searching for solutions — soon discovering a novel path forward.

Dean traveled from his home in Syracuse, N.Y., to receive an extremely rare double-lung transplant at Northwestern Medicine through the Canning Thoracic Institute's DREAM Program for select patients with terminal lung cancer. Building on the success of the transplant, he then transitioned to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for rehabilitation.

For several weeks, Dean participated in intensive therapy and received specialized care to rebuild his lung strength and endurance, learn how to breathe efficiently again, and regain everyday skills which he had lost. Soon enough, he was strong enough to walk a quarter mile and climb more than 30 stairs — huge milestones toward independence.

Today, Dean is cancer-free, continues to recover in DayRehab at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and is back to playing guitar as he looks toward the future.

In recognition of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, read Dean’s full story: bit.ly/47ZyQ5A

11/05/2025

Interested in opportunities to participate in spinal cord injury (SCI) research and learn about advancements in treatment? Join us for an informational open house on Friday, Nov. 14, from 1-4 pm to hear from researchers, patients and staff members.

This event is open to individuals with SCI, caregivers, family members, support persons, researchers and therapists. Learn more and sign up today: bit.ly/49AXlam

11/04/2025

On behalf of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, thank you for supporting SkyRise Chicago 2025! More than 2,140 participants climbed 105 stories to Skydeck Chicago Willis Tower, handcycled the distance or participated virtually — and, together, you helped us raise more than $1.2 million!

Thank you to our friends at Willis Tower -- and to all of our participants, volunteers and donors who made this happen. See you next year!

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween from Shirley Ryan AbilityLab! Our expert occupational therapists offer five easy tips for making the holiday accessible and joyful for everyone — from offering trick-or-treat and decoration ideas to tips on planning welcoming Halloween parties.

Read our blog for more! bit.ly/3LeDsvP

👻🐈‍⬛💀🧛‍♀️🧟🧙‍♀️🦽

10/30/2025

As we recognize National Physical Therapy Month this October, we’re introducing you to 16-month-old Parker J., who demonstrates that it’s never too early to see the benefits of PT!

Parker was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 11 months. His parents brought him to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for a 12-day outpatient intensive to take advantage of early, specialized therapies while his brain was developing rapidly.

As a little guy with a big desire to get moving, Parker’s goal in PT was to learn to walk with a gait trainer. He quickly built tolerance for sitting in the gait trainer and practiced bearing weight on his feet, and his physical therapist helped him take initial steps on the treadmill while using a harness.

Soon enough, Parker was walking 20 feet in the gait trainer with assistance … and, eventually, started cruising around in therapy all on his own!

In addition to PT, Parker also benefited from swallow therapy and occupational therapy during his intensive. He continues to gain skills in early intervention and through outpatient therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.

“Our goal is for Parker to be happy and independent, and to give him the ability to do things for himself,” said his mom, Kristen.

Visit our website to learn about physical therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab: bit.ly/43rG2oD

10/29/2025

Are you ready for Skyrise Chicago 2025 this Sunday, Nov. 2?

For our monthly “Ask the Expert” series, we invited clinical manager Kyle Bisping, DPT, to answer your questions about SkyRise Chicago — our annual stair climb at the Willis Tower. In this Q&A, Kyle offers training tips and ways you can get involved!

Learn how you can support SkyRise Chicago at skyrisechicago.org.

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab