Coach Rod’s Comeback: A Journey of Strength and Support with Allied Services

February 2024 was a month that changed everything for Roderick De La Rosa, assistant coach of the Crestwood Comets Lacrosse team. What started out as a simple day, quickly turned into a life-threatening emergency. "At first, I just really wasn't feeling well, and then everything just went downhill."

Rod was rushed to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with sepsis—a severe infection that led to a stroke, leaving him nearly paralyzed.

“It was terrifying,” Rod recalls. “In a matter of hours, I went from planning a weekend with my daughter to fighting for my life.”

As Rod began to stabilize, his journey toward recovery was just beginning. That’s when Crestwood High School’s head coach, Brian Zabroski, stepped in. He encouraged Rod’s family to reach out to Jim Brogna, Vice President at Allied Services. After just one short conversation, Rod and his family knew this was the place that could help him reclaim his life.

“The first few months after the stroke were so critical,” Rod says. “The nurses and team at Allied Services in Wilkes-Barre were incredible. They were so patient with me. They pushed me, but they also understood what I was going through.”

Rod spent 60 days receiving intensive care and rehabilitation at the Wilkes-Barre Rehab Hospital’s Transitional Rehab Unit. When he was discharged, the road ahead was still daunting. He returned home in a wheelchair, unable to climb stairs, speak clearly, or complete basic tasks on his own.

“Losing my independence was the hardest part,” Rod reflects. “I couldn’t care for myself. I couldn’t communicate the way I used to. It was overwhelming.”

But Rod wasn’t alone. Allied Services Home Health team continued his care at home, ensuring his rehabilitation stayed on track.

They gave me hope.

“They were amazing,” Rod says. “They helped me build strength and gave me hope on the tough days.”

Recovery was far from easy. There were setbacks, falls, and frustrating moments—but Rod kept going.

“I had no muscle left in my legs or arms. Learning how to walk again felt impossible at times. But I followed their instructions, stayed consistent, and slowly, I got stronger.”

Today, Rod continues his journey at Allied Services’ Mountain Top Rehab Center, where he attends weekly rehab sessions.

“Trish and the whole crew at Mountain Top are fantastic. They keep me moving and progressing, always with a smile.”

One special moment that stood out was a surprise visit from the Allied nurses on New Year’s Eve—those who had cared for him during his recovery.
 

They’re like family now.

“It meant the world to me. They’re like family now. They brought so much positivity into my life, and I’m grateful to still have them around.”

Now walking unaided, Rod has returned to the lacrosse sidelines, coaching once again and even making a trip to Florida.

“It’s been a long year, but I feel so grateful,” he says. “Allied Services helped me get my life back. There’s still more work to do, but with their help, I know I’ll keep getting better.”