Testimonials

Donald Hatfield’s Story
When Donald Hatfield admitted to the Homeward Bound program at Warsaw Meadows, he required total assist of two staff members for mobility, was unable to sit up, bathe or dress self, and required a Hoyer lift to get up in a wheelchair.  He was unable to communicate verbally due to a newly placed tracheotomy and required G-tube feeding.  After two weeks in the intensive care unit, he was too weak to do many of the exercises needed for therapy. 
           
With Guillain-Barre Syndrome, Diabetes, recent Respiratory Failure, CVA, obesity and high blood pressure, Donald knew that returning home would require a lot of work.  He was not certain that he would ever be able to do the things he enjoyed like candle making and cooking.
           
In his own words…” I was very nervous and terrified when I arrived at the facility.  So much so that I slept with the light on.  There were times when I felt like giving up and things weren’t going fast enough.  The nurses and aides encouraged me and reminded me of the remarkable progress that I had made.  They helped me over the rough areas.  The best thing about the staff here is that they are committed to helping you get up and get your life back. 
           
I have realized that everyone is dedicated to my rehabilitation.  There are three things that I think are the key to success. You must have determination, excellent care, and a sense of humor.  My aide Theresa has a lot of humor.
           
You should never take anything for granted. Like eating.  You never realize how much you enjoy it until you can no longer do it.  One thing I will not miss about my stay is my feeding tube.  I can not wait to get rid of it.  I enjoy cooking and watch the food network a lot.  When I go home I have special recipes that I will make for the staff here.  Sometimes I think of a recipe that makes me think of a specific person, like Crystal (the rehab director).  I am going to make her a sugar cream pie.
           
I will miss some of the friends that I made here.  I have gotten to know some of the people here and I will come back.  If I can inspire someone else to not give up then everything I have gone through is worth it.”
           
Today, Donald can walk, perform personal hygiene, and dress with minimum supervision.  His tracheotomy tube has been removed and he can talk again and speech therapy has helped him increase his swallowing ability and get the G-tube removed.  With careful monitoring of nutritional intake, he has lost 45 pounds and feels “great”.