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After a Life-Changing Fall, Pao Is Standing Tall Again Thanks to Covenant Health Therapy

  • 4 minute read.
  • Last Updated: 8/14/2026

Just months ago, Pao Cocumelli couldn’t stand, use her hands or feed herself. A devastating fall caused a serious spinal cord injury. Today, she is standing, walking with a walker and regaining her independence with Covenant Health Therapy Centers.  

Pao’s Life of Adventure Put on Pause 

For Pao and her husband, Steve, adventure has always been part of life. The couple recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and have spent decades traveling the world together. They have explored destinations from China and South America to the Galápagos Islands. 

Those adventures were suddenly put on hold when Pao fell and suffered multiple fractures in her neck.  

A man and woman stand together by a stone wall overlooking a beach and ocean on a sunny day. Both wear hats and sunglasses, with the woman holding a floral purse.
A woman in a yellow dress stands next to a man in a white naval uniform inside a large hall with rows of chairs and people in similar uniforms; flags hang above them.

She suffered fractures to three vertebrae in her neck, including a severely shattered vertebra, causing significant damage to her spinal cord. She underwent emergency surgery and hospitalization. 

“The first day after the accident was frightening,” Steve said. “She couldn’t hold herself up. At that point, all she could do was wiggle her toes.” 

Despite significant pain and limited mobility, Pao remained determined. “I could barely move, but I knew I had to keep trying,” she said.  

Covenant Health’s Comprehensive Therapy Teams 

After completing inpatient rehabilitation at Covenant Health’s Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Hospital, Pao began outpatient therapy at Covenant Health Therapy Center – West Knoxville, a department of Parkwest Medical Center.  

Four women stand together in a physical therapy room, one using a pink walker. Three wear name badges and business attire, and all are smiling at the camera. Therapy equipment is visible in the background.

Speech Therapy

Following her injury, Pao experienced swallowing and cognitive challenges that affected daily life. She found support through speech therapy with speech-language pathologist Lilly Dennison, MS, CCC-SLP. She worked on memory, attention, problem-solving and safe swallowing strategies. 

“Working with Pao was truly inspiring,” Lilly said. “She approached every stage of recovery with determination and a positive attitude. Watching her gain confidence and celebrate milestones was incredibly rewarding.” 

Physical Therapy 

One of Pao’s biggest milestones was standing. Early in her recovery, her blood pressure dropped whenever she tried to get on her feet. She worked with physical therapist Felicia Stephens, PT, DPT, NCS, and gradually built the strength and endurance needed to stand and walk again. 

“Recovery after a spinal cord injury takes patience and persistence, and Pao has shown both,” Felicia said. “Every milestone was earned through consistent effort and determination.” 

“Getting her on her feet changed everything,” Steve said. “That gave her motivation.” 

Pao recently reached another milestone by transitioning from a wheelchair to a walker. 

“You have to take little steps before you take big steps,” Pao said. “All the little things add up.” 

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy helped Pao return to everyday activities many people take for granted. Following her injury, Steve assisted her with nearly everything, including eating, bathing and dressing. 

Now, Pao is regaining independence. “I can feed myself now,” she said with a smile. “I can eat fried chicken and hamburgers.” 

Pao’s occupational therapist Whitney Overton, OT, shared, “The most rewarding part of Pao’s rehabilitation has been seeing her return to activities that are meaningful to her. Each accomplishment represents greater independence.” 

“Now she can do things that seemed impossible before,” Steve said. 

Looking Ahead 

While Pao knows her recovery continues, she is focused on the future. One goal stands out: a 28-day family cruise to Norway and the Arctic Circle, where she hopes to see the Northern Lights. 

“My family has helped and supported me through all of this,” Pao said. “I’m so grateful for Steve, my family and my therapists.” 

Step by step, Pao continues to move forward. 

“My goal was to stand and be able to use my hands again,” she added. “Through therapy, I’ve been able to do that and continue getting stronger every day.” 

Covenant Health Therapy Centers 

Covenant Health Therapy Centers combine advanced technology, specialized training and compassionate care to help patients recover from injury, illness and surgery. Learn more or find a location near you today. 

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