NJ
Giving Life Back

One Patient’s Story

When NJ came to Kindred Hospital Chicago North in late December 2004, he was dependent on a ventilator and required intensive monitoring and assistance.

NJ came from another hospital, where he was admitted initially for a ruptured peptic ulcer. Complications arose at the other hospital, leading to a series of other medical problems. In addition to the issues related to the ulcer, NJ, 64, had a history of coronary artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and diabetes.

The Kindred team weaned NJ from the ventilator and eventually removed his tracheostomy tube. About one month after he arrived, NJ was discharged back to his home with his adult son, walking and performing his activities of daily living
independently.

“I know it’s a miracle,” NJ said of his recovery. “I was really sick. Kindred is a nice hospital. They did a good job. I thank God each and every day for giving me my life back.”

NJ’s sister, Alice, also praised the Kindred Hospital staff, saying: “they should get an award. They nursed him back to health.”

Success stories like NJ’s are common at Kindred hospitals, where multidisciplinary team members work together to achieve a common goal – helping our patients as they strive to recover their independence.