Michelle Rodriguez-Cowans

“The staff here at Texsan really get to know their patients and exactly what they need,” says Michelle Rodriguez-Cowans, 49. She has had three amazing stays at Methodist Hospital | Texsan. She loves the hospital and has continued to return after many medical diagnoses.

Michelle, mother of four and retired Army veteran, had a stroke in September of 2021. While at home, she began to feel nauseas, the left side of her face was drooping, and she had a speech impediment. She was then brought to the ER at Methodist Hospital | Texsan. After many labs and tests, it was found that Michelle had a hole in her heart. She spent about 30 days in the hospital and received all the attention she needed including physical therapy and occupational therapy. Thanks to the staff and her son, Michelle celebrated her birthday with a cookie cake and Laguna Madre on September 30, 2021. She was blessed by the chaplain which brought tears to her eyes. She was extremely grateful.

Unfortunately, Michelle made a return to the hospital in October of 2022 due to a colitis infection and stayed for about a week.

Fast forward eight months later, Michelle began to experience chest pain, pressure in her chest, and difficulty breathing. Her son immediately took her to the ER again where she found out she was going to need open-heart surgery. Dr. Thomas Percival, her surgeon, sat down with her and spoke to her about the procedure. Michelle felt scared, but she prepared herself and was hopeful. Michelle had a coronary artery bypass surgery or open-heart surgery in June of 2023. Post-surgery, she had lots of pain and soreness. She also felt extremely tired, but thankfully the surgery went well.

“My relationship with those who took care of me is important,” said Michelle. After completing her therapy, Michelle is excited to get back to doing research for the U.S. Marshalls.