SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. — A Gering teenager is on the road to recovery after an ATV accident and subsequent stroke, thanks to the swift response and expert care from Regional West Medical Center’s emergency and rehabilitation teams.

Fourteen-year-old Hayden Gipfert was involved in an ATV accident on Aug. 25, suffering a dislocated hip. His mother, Chelsea Johnston, credited Regional West Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for their professionalism and efficiency in transporting her son to the hospital for immediate treatment.

“The EMS crew was diligent in staying calm and getting Hayden to the hospital as quickly as possible,” Johnston said. “Dr. McLaren and the ER team were outstanding and able to put back his dislocated hip without needing surgery.”

While Hayden was recovering at home, he suffered a stroke three days later, requiring urgent transport to Children’s Hospital Colorado Anschutz in Aurora, Colorado. Regional West’s Air Link medical helicopter crew quickly transferred him.

“Regional West’s ER nurses were kind and updated me with the information I asked for, and they were calm during the absolute worst moments of my life,” Johnston said. "He's recovering well."

After six weeks at Children’s Hospital, Hayden returned home and continues his recovery, receiving weekly outpatient speech and occupational therapy at Regional West’s Rehab Center.

Johnston praised Regional West’s rehab team and imaging services, which have provided seamless follow-up care. “Thank you all for being great to Hayden,” she said.