Kansas City, KS – Mike Ryken was flying 1,200 feet above the ground when a ruptured fuel line sent fuel pouring into the cockpit, surrounding him in flames. He managed to land the plane but suffered devastating burns and injuries that ultimately led to the amputation of both hands and both legs. On Morning Medical Update, Mike shares his extraordinary recovery and how he's learning to live independently again, while his medical team explains the surgeries and rehabilitation that helped him rebuild his life. His determination recently earned him a place in The University of Kansas Health System's Rehabilitation Hall of Fame.
Mike Ryken, Burn Survivor and Rehabilitation Hall of Fame Inductee
Mike shares the physical and emotional challenges of losing both hands and both legs following the accident.
He discusses learning to perform everyday activities again and the role of adaptive technology in regaining independence.
He explains how he's found a way to return to flying and what goals he's working toward next.
He reflects on his induction into the health system's Rehabilitation Hall of Fame and the importance of his support system throughout recovery.
Dr. Dhaval Bhavsar, Plastic Surgeon and Burn Specialist, Burnett Burn Center, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Bhavsar explains the extent of Mike's burns and the challenges involved in treating such severe injuries.
He discusses the multiple surgeries and specialized wound care required throughout Mike's recovery.
He explains how hydrotherapy tanks can help patients with extensive burns.
He discusses pain management and how specialists work together to care for patients with catastrophic injuries.
Bailee Shafer, Occupational Therapist, The University of Kansas Health System
Bailee discusses helping Mike relearn everyday activities following the loss of both hands.
She explains how occupational therapy helps patients regain independence with dressing, eating and using everyday objects.
She discusses the use of adaptive equipment and 3D-printed devices to help amputees perform daily tasks.
She shares the challenges and milestones of Mike's rehabilitation and what his Hall of Fame induction means to his care team.
Carly McCelland, Physical Therapist, The University of Kansas Health System
Carly explains how Mike's early rehabilitation focused on sitting balance, maintaining flexibility and preparing for eventual weight-bearing and prosthetic training.
She discusses how a power wheelchair helped Mike regain independence while his injuries healed.
She reflects on Mike's determination and why his Rehabilitation Hall of Fame induction serves as inspiration to other patients and their care teams.