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Coma Patient Communicates After Rehab Director’s Breakthrough

8/20/2026

43 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Leslie Buckner, director of rehabilitation at Methodist Hospitals in Chicago, helped a coma patient communicate with pen and paper.
The patient later achieved full recovery after regaining communication.
She prioritizes health equity for uninsured patients.
She earned a PT degree from Marquette University through the Health Careers Opportunity Program.
Former chair Dr. Lawrence Pan helped her family feel welcomed.

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Story summary

Leslie Buckner, director of rehabilitation at Methodist Hospitals in Chicago, helped a coma patient communicate with pen and paper.
The patient later achieved full recovery after regaining communication.
She prioritizes health equity for uninsured patients.
She earned a PT degree from Marquette University through the Health Careers Opportunity Program.
Former chair Dr. Lawrence Pan helped her family feel welcomed.