A remarkable story of resilience, courage and care

In December 2023, Keith “Stewy” Stewart was busy making last-minute preparations for a long-anticipated cruise with his wife Cindy when a trip on the stairs changed everything. The lifelong hockey enthusiast and Senior Advisor of Hockey Operations with the Cambridge RedHawks simply lost his footing—an accident so common, yet with devastating, life-altering consequences, resulting in a catastrophic spinal cord injury.

When Keith arrived at St. Joseph’s Complex Care Hospital, he faced an uncertain future. Doctors told him he would likely be paralyzed from the neck down. But at St. Joe’s, Keith discovered not only expert care, but also the compassion and encouragement he needed to begin his long and difficult journey of resilience and recovery.

The multi-faceted specialty teams at St. Joe’s wrapped around Keith and his family, supporting them through one of the most difficult chapters of their lives. Physiotherapists guided him through exercises that strengthened his arms. Occupational therapists introduced adaptive tools that helped Keith relearn activities once taken for granted—like using a fork. Physicians and nurses pushed him forward with care and determination, reminding him at every turn that he was not alone. The social work team supported Keith and Cindy as they navigated the deep emotional toll of such a life-altering injury, providing hope, support, and encouragement every step of the way.

“Over time, staff became like family,” shared Cindy. “They were encouraging but also always chatting and joking with Keith, all while reassuring him that he would get through this. It made a huge difference in both his physical and emotional care.”

Each milestone of Keith’s progress was cause for celebration: the first time he got into a chair, the freedom of driving his electric wheelchair outside, and the joy of holding everyday items like his phone so he could reconnect with loved ones.

These victories, big and small, gave Keith the confidence to keep setting and reaching goals—which now include returning to the golf course with adaptive equipment, holding his first grandchild, and even planning another cruise.

Today, Keith’s journey continues, and he and Cindy face their future with resilience, humour, hope—and gratitude. Gratitude because they know Keith’s care was made possible not only by the dedication of the St. Joe’s team, but also by the generosity of donors. Every piece of equipment Keith used—from ceiling lifts to rehabilitation tools—was funded through donations.

At St. Joe’s, Keith received the physical and emotional care he needed to build the independence and confidence that allowed him to return to the things that matter most.

Their story is a powerful reminder of the vital role St. Joe’s plays in people’s lives—often when they are facing the most difficult times imaginable—and how every donor is right alongside them.