When Kirt arrived at Kindred East on November 19, 2025, he was dependent on a ventilator and feeding tube and not fully awake or alert. After working with his interdisciplinary care team, he was able to discharge to an inpatient rehab facility. 

A Patient Success Story from Kindred Hospital East New Jersey

When Kirt was admitted to Kindred Hospital East New Jersey on Nov. 19, 2025, he was dependent on a ventilator and feeding tube, had multiple pressure wounds and was barely alert.

Kindred’s team got to work in aiding his recovery journey.

Speech, physical, and occupational therapists worked closely with Kirt to help him regain awareness and strength. Little by little, he began to respond, then speak, then eat. As his awareness and confidence grew, so did his independence – sitting at the edge of the bed and engaging in daily activities and therapy.

Kirt’s breathing progress was remarkable. Less than two weeks after admission, he successfully completed 72 hours on a trach collar, breathing on his own. After some setbacks, the respiratory team’s persistence paid off. On Dec. 22, Kirt completed 72 hours breathing with his trach tube closed off, and the tube was removed on Dec. 24 – an unforgettable Christmas gift for Kirt and his wife.

By discharge, Kirt was walking with a walker, feeding himself, and safely enjoying a soft, bite-sized diet. His wounds also improved. Multiple pressure injuries present on admission healed, and after treatment to remove damaged tissue, a remaining sacral wound improved dramatically, becoming a healing wound with healthy new tissue.

Learn more about: Respiratory Care