Hospital gives big update on Ryan Shazier's health

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier has been released from the hospital is starting the next phase in his recovery from a devastating spinal injury that occurred in a Dec. 4 game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center provided an update on Shazier’s recovery on Thursday.

An update on @steelers Ryan Shazier. pic.twitter.com/CPiizgvSbA

— UPMC (@UPMCnews) February 1, 2018

“Ryan Shazier was discharged from the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at UPMC Mercy today and will transition into an outpatient therapy program through the UPMC Centers for Rehab Services,” the hospital said in a statement.

No additional information was provided by the hospital out of respect for the patient’s privacy.

However, Shazier followed up with an update of his own on Instagram, along with a picture of him with Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

“I want everyone to know that I’m moving on to the next step of the process,” he wrote. “Today’s a big day for me as I’m officially being released from the hospital.”

I’ve had a lot of 1st downs at UPMC, but you know being the defensive guy I am, my mind is on 3 and out. With that being said, I want everyone to know that I’m moving on to the next step of the process. Today’s a big day for me as I’m officially being released from the hospital. I want to take a moment to thank the people who have helped me the past two months. First and foremost, I want to thank God because at the end of the day I don’t think I’d be making progress without His vision and hands protecting me and my family. I will continue to trust in Him and thank Him, because it all starts with Him. To my family: you’ve been my rock. Words can’t express how thankful I am for you Michelle, RJ, Mom, Dad, and VJ for always being there for me. You’re my everything. To Jerome: my trainer and best friend. Thank you for being there from day 1 and every day after continuing to push me to be better every day. I’d like to thank Dr. Okonkwo, Dr. Harrington, Dr. Maroon, and Dr. Schroeder for their amazing work on my procedure and continuous care. I can’t appropriately express how grateful I am for how quickly you’ve helped me bounce back. I want to thank the medical staff at UPMC for their amazing care, support and therapy they have given me- especially Joe, Nikki, Karolina and Dani. I know the staff will continue to help me find a way to keep on pushing as we continue therapy. The support from my teammates has been truly amazing. From former players to current players and their families- they have helped me and my family day to day with visits and gifts. We can’t thank you enough. I want to thank Mr. Rooney, Coach T, Mr. Colbert, and the entire Steelers organization for the unwavering support they’ve given me. I knew they were an amazing organization, but more than ever they’re family to me. Lastly, I want to thank Jimmy, Candice, and the CAA Sports staff for being here when I need them most. I don’t know if I’d be where I’m at or making the progress I’m making without you guys. I want everyone to know that all of the support and prayers are absolutely being answered. I will continue to work hard and push and find a way back. #Shalieve #Steelers #prayfor50

A post shared by Ryan Shazier (@shazier) on Feb 1, 2018 at 10:57am PST

Shazier thanked everyone who has helped him and his family through the difficulties they have endured over the past two months.

While he didn’t provide any specifics on the nature of his progress or whether he will be able to return to the football field, he was adamant that he won’t give up.

“I will continue to work hard and push and find a way back,” Shazier wrote.

Ryan Shazier can indeed go home and travel to and from a facility for treatment, I’m told. Significant progress.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 1, 2018

Shazier has more than a half-million followers on Instagram and his post garnered more than 51,000 likes in less than an hour.

Everyone is behind you @RyanShazier stay strong and keep ya faith #Shalieve

— Johnny Manziel (@JManziel2) February 1, 2018

While some people, like GQ’s Drew Magary, have begged for more details surrounding the linebacker’s recovery, Shazier is certainly entitled to his privacy.

If nothing else, he has owned the narrative surrounding his story, focusing on the positive.

Here’s to hoping that he continues to make a full and speedy recovery.

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Nick Raffoul

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Nick Raffoul is a former contributor to The Wildcard, a publication of the Western Journal.

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