Doug Nelsen Honored By Madonna Hospital

Dorchester graduate and area resident Doug Nelsen has been recognized by Lincoln's Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital for demonstrating "outstanding achievement" to overcome physical disabilities following his 2001 stroke.

Suffering the stroke at a young age, Nelson was left with no movement in his left arm and had severe left facial droop, along with limited control of his left leg. To travel, Nelsen required the assistance of two other people. To walk, he was forced to use a medical device. He needed help to sit on the edge of the bed, dress and eat.

According to Madonna, Nelson "worked tremendously hard to regain skills needed to care for himself and return to his horse training business. His great personality (always positive, never discouraged), his willingness to try new things -- even if it meant working a lot harder -- was an inspiration to others. His hard work resulted in his return to work full time. He is not only running his business, but recently competed in a cutting horse competition and placed among the top finishers."

Nelson's picture and story has been placed on the Wall of Honor at Madonna where they serve to inspire patients and families who may be experiencing similar challenges. For more on Nelsen's rehabilitation and the Madonna program, click here.