Once a dedicated health care worker herself, Jacqueline’s life took an unexpected turn when she suffered a devastating injury. It was a crisp winter morning on February 20, 2023, when Jacqueline fell and broke her hip. The accident left her unable to continue her work and forced her to embark on a journey of recovery.
Initially receiving care at Juravinski Hospital, Jacqueline’s condition improved enough to warrant a transfer to St. Peter’s Hospital (SPH) on March 12. It was at St. Peter’s Hospital that she found solace and hope within the Restorative Care Unit, a place where her life would take a remarkable turn.
From the moment Jacqueline arrived, she felt an instant connection with the team at the Restorative Care Unit. “I have a lot of friends here,” she would often remark, highlighting the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The therapists, in particular, earned her praise, as they went above and beyond to ensure her recovery journey was both effective and personalized. “The therapy people are great,” she would exclaim with a smile. “If you have a problem, they’ll try this or that to help you. I feel that they not only care about their work, they care about me personally.”
The team at the Restorative Care Unit took pride in treating each patient with dignity and respect, and Jacqueline recognized this. She appreciated their sensitivity to her needs, noting, “They are very conscious of my dignity.” In her spare time, Jacqueline indulged in her love for reading, often devouring a book every other day. To her delight, a member of the cleaning staff noticed her passion and generously offered her his own book. Whether it was murder mysteries or historical romances, Jacqueline found comfort and escape within the pages.
As Jacqueline continued her journey towards recovery, she discovered the vibrant personalities and passions of her fellow patients and the dedicated staff. Her newfound friend, who shared a love for plants, inspired her to split an overgrown plant in a hanging basket. The simple act brought joy not only to Jacqueline but to those around her as well. “They’re always looking for things to do that will interest you,” she happily shared.
Throughout her time at the Restorative Care Unit, Jacqueline experienced ups and downs, as anyone on a healing path would. But the team was unwavering in their commitment to her well-being. On the days when she felt discouraged or overwhelmed, they would offer to postpone an activity or find an alternative solution. “They care. They show respect. They’re willing to do anything you ask,” Jacqueline professed with gratitude. “I sometimes call them angels or treasures.”
With every passing day, Jacqueline’s strength, balance and coordination steadily improved. Starting off in a wheelchair, she progressed to a heavy-duty walker and eventually transitioned to a regular one. Encouraged by her therapists, she roamed the building freely, relishing the newfound sense of independence. In the therapy room, she conquered challenges she never thought possible. Climbing stairs, once an arduous task, became a triumph. “They’ve got me climbing stairs,” she shared with pride. “That’s something you don’t give any thought to. I used to back down the steps because it was the only way I could control my body. Well, now I’m turning around and going down the regular way, sometimes just one step at a time, other times at a normal, one step after the other fashion.”
Jacqueline eagerly engaged in various exercises, including those on a stationary bicycle, as she prepared to regain the movements necessary for her regular life. With the help of the dedicated therapists, she practiced day in and day out, determined to reclaim her independence.
Behind Jacqueline’s transformative journey stood the impact of generous donors who recognized the significance of the Restorative Care Unit. Their contributions not only provided essential equipment and resources but also enhanced the quality of care and the recovery process. Their support facilitated the personalized approach that Jacqueline cherished, enabling her to regain her strength and rebuild her life.
As Jacqueline’s time at the Restorative Care Unit drew to a close, she reflected on the incredible progress she had made. It was a journey filled with camaraderie, determination and the unwavering support of the caring professionals who had become her extended family. With gratitude in her heart, she stepped into the next chapter of her life, forever touched by the generosity that had given her a second chance.