Sports
Steelers' Ryan Shazier Released From Hospital
The injured linebacker and UPMC provide separate updates on his progress.
PITTSBURGH, PA - Ryan Shazier was released from the hospital Thursday, but its still unclear how much mobility - if any - the Steelers' star linebacker has regained.
“Ryan Shazier was discharged from the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute today and will transition into an outpatient therapy program through the UPMC Center for Rehabilitation Services,” a UPMC statement said in its entirety.
Prior to the update, Shazier posted a photo and message on Instagram showing him standing upright with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s arm around him. It’s the first publicly released photo of Shazier not in a wheelchair since he was injured nearly two months ago.
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“I want everyone to know that all of the support and prayers are absolutely being answered,” Shazier said in part. “I will continue to work hard and push and find a way back.”
Shazier suffered a spinal injury while making a tackle in a Dec. 4 game against the Cincinnati Bengals and underwent spinal stabilization surgery on Dec. 7. Last month, Shazier’s father told WPXI-TV that his son has regained feeling in his legs but would not elaborate on his condition.
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I’ve had a lot of 1st downs at UPMC, but you know being the defensive guy I am, my mind is on 3 and out. With that being said, I want everyone to know that I’m moving on to the next step of the process. Today’s a big day for me as I’m officially being released from the hospital. I want to take a moment to thank the people who have helped me the past two months. First and foremost, I want to thank God because at the end of the day I don’t think I’d be making progress without His vision and hands protecting me and my family. I will continue to trust in Him and thank Him, because it all starts with Him. To my family: you’ve been my rock. Words can’t express how thankful I am for you Michelle, RJ, Mom, Dad, and VJ for always being there for me. You’re my everything. To Jerome: my trainer and best friend. Thank you for being there from day 1 and every day after continuing to push me to be better every day. I’d like to thank Dr. Okonkwo, Dr. Harrington, Dr. Maroon, and Dr. Schroeder for their amazing work on my procedure and continuous care. I can’t appropriately express how grateful I am for how quickly you’ve helped me bounce back. I want to thank the medical staff at UPMC for their amazing care, support and therapy they have given me- especially Joe, Nikki, Karolina and Dani. I know the staff will continue to help me find a way to keep on pushing as we continue therapy. The support from my teammates has been truly amazing. From former players to current players and their families- they have helped me and my family day to day with visits and gifts. We can’t thank you enough. I want to thank Mr. Rooney, Coach T, Mr. Colbert, and the entire Steelers organization for the unwavering support they’ve given me. I knew they were an amazing organization, but more than ever they’re family to me. Lastly, I want to thank Jimmy, Candice, and the CAA Sports staff for being here when I need them most. I don’t know if I’d be where I’m at or making the progress I’m making without you guys. I want everyone to know that all of the support and prayers are absolutely being answered. I will continue to work hard and push and find a way back. #Shalieve #Steelers #prayfor50
A post shared by Ryan Shazier (@shazier) on Feb 1, 2018 at 10:57am PST
Photo: Associated Press.
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