They Really Brought Him Back

Article submitted by Mary Jean.

Mary Jean reflects on the events that had happened since her husband Chester had suffered a stroke. Prior to the life altering illness at only 63-years-old, Chester had been an active member of the community. A retired police chief, he was working full time in the district attorney's office when the stroke occurred. While at the hospital, additional medical complications jeopardized Chester's recovery, but he pulled through. Once stable, Chester was to be released to ManorCare - Whitehall for rehabilitation and nursing care, but Mary Jean was concerned. Her concept of a 'nursing home' was one that many shared, and it wasn't positive. But her perceptions changed when Chester arrived at ManorCare - Whitehall. Immediately, the friendly staff embraced Chester and his family, and began working on the goal to get Chester home.

According to Mary Jean, the staff were "Chester's Angels." Chester had been bedridden for two months before he arrived at ManorCare, so beginning the rehabilitation process was tough. "It was so amazing, they kept pushing him and in the beginning it was really hard, he was really hurting that first month. We didn't know if we would ever be able to care for him at home. When Chester called on the phone and spoke my name, I was amazed. It just showed how good the therapy was there," Mary Jean said.

Chester and his therapists, including specialists in physical, occupational and speech therapy, began the arduous task of rehabilitation. Chester had to regain his strength and stamina as well as his ability to talk and swallow. According to the therapists, despite Chester's tremendous setback, he made phenomenal gains throughout his rehabilitation stay. Things we take for granted, like bathing and dressing were a chore, but one that Chester was able to relearn.

Before Chester could go home, his family had to be trained on things such as transferring to and from the car or a tub. Chester's wife and daughter spent time with the therapists, learning how to use all the adaptive devices, food restrictions and safety precautions. Before Chester went home, the therapists did a site visit to make sure that Chester's return would go smoothly. Chester's hard work and motivation, coupled with his extremely supportive family, enabled him to achieve his ultimate goal - to return home. When Mary Jean was talks about the life with Chester at home, and how they take several trips out each week, Chester gives a thumbs up. Mary Jean sums it up best when she said, "They really brought him back."