Athletics outfield prospect Ryan Lasko suffered a scary spinal cord injury after a collision with a teammate two months ago, but is finally heading home after leaving a rehab facility in New Jersey on Wednesday. Lasko, 24, suffered the injury in a diving collision with teammate Devin Taylor on June 30, and immediately left to a nearby hospital for emergency surgery. He suffered fractured C6 and C7 vertebrae due to the collision.
"Ryan is heading home today after spending time in a rehab facility and he received a special surprise clap out from everyone along the way!" The Athletics wrote via X. "He will begin out patient therapy and continue his journey to recovery. "We’re with you every step of the way, Ryan!" The injury initially left Lasko paralyzed from the chest down, affecting both of his arms, but he regained feeling in his legs and arms during his recovery.
I have sensation from my feet up to my knees, along with a lot of involuntary leg movements. I also have been getting some sensation in the side of my thighs, hamstrings and back. I currently have about 75% usage of my left hand and about 50% in my right.
I’m very happy with my progress and, once again, so thankful for all the love and support. It has continued to help me get up every day and work my hardest.” Lasko also acknowledged the progress he made, and has his sights set towards the future as he continues to work back. "I don't know what the next step is, so that's kind of scary.
There's a lot more unknown," Lasko said. "The first day I got here, they asked me what my goal was and I said to be as independent as possible. I've gotten to that point.
I've checked a lot of boxes. Everything that I said I couldn't do, I can do now -- simple stuff like opening my water bottle that you take for granted. ... There's a lot of small things that I took for granted that I couldn't do that I can do somewhat now again." Lasko's next step is outpatient therapy, and he will continue to return to the rehab center as he continues to recover.
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