A backyard blessing
Gary Cowall
Mar, 2016
Physicians: Justin Sybesma, MD
Orthopedic surgeons are specially trained to help patients manage certain conditions, relieve pain, restore mobility and independence, or return to work and other daily activities. To find an orthopedic surgeon near you, contact us.
While getting out of the shower, Gary Cowall, 70, a St. Joseph resident, fell and fractured his ankle. After undergoing surgery with Justin Sybesma, MD, to repair the bones, Gary learned he wouldn’t be able to bear weight on his foot for the next six weeks. Both Gary and his wife, Kathy, didn’t feel confident in him returning home as climbing the stairs in their multi-level home would be a challenge – that’s when they turned to the staff at Pine Ridge.
“Pine Ridge is practically in our backyard,” said Kathy. “We have known several family friends who have gone to Pine Ridge and received excellent care – it was definitely our first choice.”
“I really enjoyed working with the physical and occupational therapy staff during my stay,” said Gary. “From day one they challenged me to get moving, and helped me get back on my feet. It was reassuring to know that every activity I was doing – from something as simple as rearranging cupboards or making a bowl of cereal – was part of my recovery journey.”
During his stay, Gary and Kathy said they valued the relationships they formed with each of the staff members.
“Everyone we encountered was so kind and knowledgeable, you could tell they really enjoyed working together – it was like one big family,” said Gary. “The staff truly made a difficult situation much easier on both Kathy and I.”
Gary’s six-week stay fell over the holiday season, but that didn’t stop Kathy and their children from celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas as a family. Kathy fondly recounts how they shared a delicious Thanksgiving meal together and sat around the stone fireplace in the lobby.
“As a loved one, I was grateful for how well the staff communicated with me during each step of Gary’s recovery,” said Kathy. “Not only did they keep me informed, they also directly involved me in his care. If I ever had a question it was answered right away.”
Since his stay at Pine Ridge, Gary has returned home to continue his rehabilitation. He regularly meets with a physical therapist and a Lakeland Homecare nurse. In March, he will return to Dr. Sybesma to remove the screws and plate from his ankle.
“I am so grateful for the care I received during my time at Pine Ridge – thanks to them I am back on my own two feet again,” said Gary.