Next Steps of O'Connor Foundation

04/16/2026

This reel just crossed 50,000 views on Instagram, and it is so much more than a number.

It is a moment of hope.
A moment of progress.
A reminder of what is possible.

After 10 years, Maximilian Gross, , experienced something many thought may never happen, movement returning to his arms.

We are honored to be part of journeys like his at Next Steps Chicago, where recovery is personal, and every step forward matters.

Watch. Share. Be part of the journey.

04/11/2026

🧠 April is National Occupational Therapy Month!
OT vs 💪 PT - do you know the difference?

One helps you live your daily life again
The other helps your body move better

Both are powerful. Both are essential and they work best together. 👇

✨ OT = independence
✨ PT = mobility

OT complements PT, and together they support optimal performance, participation, and function.

Understanding this can change how you approach recovery.

📌 Save this for later
🔁 Share it with someone who needs clarity

03/31/2026

03/31/2026

Breaking Barriers. Rewriting Possibilities.
At Next Steps Chicago, we have the honor of supporting some of the strongest fighters we’ve ever met — including two remarkable patients who survived Locked‑In Syndrome, a condition where a person is fully conscious but able to move only their eyes.

Today, Rudy and Darryl are defying every expectation associated with Locked in Syndrome.
Through intensive Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy — and sheer determination — they are beginning to regain purposeful movement, strength, and functional independence.

👏 From eye‑gaze communication…
➡️ to small but powerful muscle activation…
➡️ to controlled, meaningful movement…
➡️ and now, steps toward mobility…

Every milestone is a victory.
Every session is a testament to resilience.
Every day, they remind us what hope — paired with expert neuro‑rehabilitation — can achieve.

We are incredibly proud of their progress and honored to be part of their journey. 💙

Healing happens here. Hope lives here. Progress starts here.

03/19/2026

This is more than a story… it’s strength, resilience, and a fight that millions face every day. 💛

Mia Shideler’s journey with MS is a reminder that behind every diagnosis is a life still full of purpose, courage, and hope. Let’s share her story, raise awareness, and stand together this MS Awareness Month.

Because no one should fight alone. Share this to spread awareness about one the most misunderstood diseases.

03/04/2026

Trevor Hayden absolutely slayed the Little Rock Marathon course, rocking his Game of Thrones race kit and finishing in a blazing 2:44:40! 👑🔥

Even after facing mechanical challenges from mile 13, he pushed through with the strength, grit, and determination that define him.

As an athlete with a C7 spinal cord injury, Trevor continues to rewrite what’s possible and inspire everyone around him.

Boston awaits… and the Next Steps team remembers. 🏁

12/02/2025

Join us in supporting someones recovery on .

09/26/2025

Congratulations to Trevor Hayden on his Boston Qualifying Air Force Marathon performance! Crushing his Goals! Goals Set - Goals Met! NEXT STEPS - CRUSH THE BOSTON COURSE!

08/21/2025

Thank you to Cheryl Angelelli and New Mobility Magazine for the feature article on the Onward ARC -EX transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation device and it's impact for persons with SCI. https://newmobility.com/arc-ex-transcutaneous-stimulation-device-delivers-real-world-results/

Transcutaneous stimulation is starting to hit physical therapy clinics as a way to improve motor function in people with incomplete spinal cord injuries. Cheryl Angelelli tries it herself and talks…

07/25/2025

Today we celebrate the birthday of our incredible founder, Jon O'Connor. Jon was a fiece supportor of spinal cord reserch and services, not becuase he reaped the benefit, but because he saw the value and benefit for others. Jon was an incredible agent for change of the status quo. We will share these words of his to keep his spirit in our midst. "Happiness is when you think what you say and what you do is in harmony - To have wealth is to create value in others." ~Jon O'Connor

07/25/2025

Best Applesauce Ever! This accomplishment brought to you by Bari, Next Steps Chicago & Onward Medical ARC-Ex transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation. After 13 years, Bari has recovered enough movement to feed herself! So Proud of her ongoing hardwork and dedication.