Manny: A Miraculous Attitude
Manny came to Kindred Hospital for complex wound care.
At a short-term acute care
hospital Manny had undergone surgery for a small bowel obstruction, which led
to complications. After a second surgery he had been given an ileostomy tube
and was recovering when he went into septic shock and then developed abscesses
and a fistula.
Manny was then transferred to
Kindred Hospital for continued care.
Upon admission, in addition
to his major abdominal wound, Manny was on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and
could not take any food or liquids by mouth.
The Kindred wound team faced
an immediate challenge, as Manny’s fistula was constantly draining, making it one
of the most difficult wounds to care for. The team began an aggressive treatment
routine, which included a debridement of the necrotic material in his abdomen.
Though very ill upon arrival,
Manny’s outlook and motivation to get well and go home made him a model patient.
Manny did everything possible to strengthen his body, including taking walks
through the halls every two hours – even with tubes and drains in tow!
Throughout his hospital stay his spirits stayed positive and he made everyone
smile.
After weeks of hard work by
Manny and the Kindred wound and rehabilitation teams, Manny was discharged home
with his wife.
Four months later, the Kindred Hospital staff received a phone call
from Manny.
He was letting them know he
was back in the acute care hospital to have his bowel reconnected, and his
ileostomy removed. This last surgery allowed him to return to normal bowel
function and a normal life. He has since invited all of the staff to come and
visit him.