Fairview Rehab Success Stories

Article submitted by Brenda Hultgren, OTR/L

Mrs. Franciscelli arrived at Fairview having undergone a total knee replacement.  She had suffered with debilitating arthritis of both knees before making that difficult decision for surgery.  However, choosing Fairview for her rehab stay was not a difficult decision to make.  She based her decision several factors; she never forgot the excellent care a family member received here many many years ago; she has had several friends here recently who returned home with only good things to say about Fairview; and Fairview is close to her home.  She also states in regards to the location “I never realized how beautiful it is here, both inside and the gorgeous views outside of the Thames River”.  Once fully recovered, Mrs. Franciscelli will be heading back to surgery to have her other knee replaced, and she says she will “definitely come back” to Fairview for her rehabilitation.  At the end of her 10 day stay, she had achieved all of her goals.  She achieved 95 degrees of flexion, improved strength, minimal pain, independence with ambulation, & independence in all areas of self-care and home management.   When asked to reflect upon her stay here and describe what stands out most in her mind, she states, without hesitation “the attentative care I received, from the housekeepers all the way up to the administrator”.  That is the best compliment we at Fairview can ask for, because that is what we strive for every day with every patient and resident.  Thank you Mrs. Franciscelli for letting us help you in your time of need, and we’ll see you soon!!

Article submitted by: Jane Novak, Rehabilitation Therapy Services

Mrs. Sharp had an injury and sustained a fractured ankle.  After surgery she was not allowed to put any weight on her foot.  The doctor recommended short term rehab.  She decided on Fairview having had many friends who had positive experience, in addition it is close to home.

Mrs. Sharp candidly told me that she was “expecting to see some sad individuals at Fairview, however when she arrived, she found a charming atmosphere and friendly staff that were truly interested in her and her individual needs”.

She received both Physical and Occupational Therapy to gain strength and instruction on using a walker without putting one foot on the floor.  She accomplished these goals as well as how to maneuver in a wheelchair independently.

After several family meetings with the interdisciplinary team it was decided that using a wheelchair at home would be the most efficient and safest way to get around until the healing process allows her to weight on her foot.

Eager to finish recuperating at home, a discharge plan was formulated.  Mrs. Sharp saw her doctor, a fiberglass cast was applied; a wheelchair and walker were ordered; VNA services were arranged and she is now at home continuing the healing process among her family and friends.

Article submitted by: Jane Novak, Rehabilitation Therapy Services

    Mrs. Iva Lawton chose to rehab at Fairview after a short hospital stay because of the facility’s history in the community; she found her experience to be “fantastic” and stated that “ Everyone was so good!”

     Iva spent several days in the hospital before coming to Fairview for short term rehab. She was acutely ill and felt very weak. When she was first admitted she walked with a walker and had to sit in a chair to exercise. Now she can perform exercises standing up, ride the recumbent bike and walk short distances without the walker.

     Even though Mrs. Lawton was only here for  12 days she quickly became a member of our Fairview Family and proudly displayed her team choice during our celebration of the Baseball Playoffs!!  Exercises were adapted to utilize baseball bats, balls, and baseball trivia showed who the dedicated fans really are!!  We wish Iva good luck on her continued journey at home toward a stronger, healthier future!