It was a long road to recovery, but for Kim Te Chung, Garden Terrace Healthcare Center of Federal Way, Washington, was the key to getting home.
Te Chung came to the skilled nursing and rehab center on Sept. 25, 2017, with post-laminectomy syndrome, a condition of weakness and pain after back surgery. She was unable to do anything for herself at the time.
“Initially, the therapy was very low-level,” said Rosalind Cushion, director of rehab. “There was a lot of focus on bed mobility, transfers, the use of the standing frame and sitting balance.”
Physical and occupational therapists worked with Te Chung with the assistance of her son, Keewah, who translated for her. She speaks Chinese.
As Te Chung progressed, physical therapists started training her in the parallel bars, then walking outside of the bars. Occupational therapists focused on helping her with her activities of daily living and strengthening her upper body.
“Kim has shown great strength of character in the long, slow road to recovery and is finally strong enough to return home – her biggest goal!” said Sarah Becker, occupational therapist.
Te Chung went home with her son on Nov. 22. She was able to do her grooming and dressing without assistance and walk and transfer with minimal assistance.
“I enjoyed the stay because everyone was interested in me getting better to allow me to go home,” said Te Chung.