10/16/2025
Helen, 74, is a retired nurse who has navigated her disability with grace for more than a decade. Though she never envisioned having children of her own, she has poured her heart into her beloved nieces and nephews, surrounding them with love and care. A passionate gardener, Helen’s green thumb has brought beautiful blooms to life year after year. She is excited to be moving closer to her hometown, where she’ll be surrounded by family, friends, and the garden she treasures.
Helen began experiencing persistent weakness for more than six months. She was admitted to the hospital several times during this period, treated, and then released, believing her symptoms were related to her kidney failure. Her kidney disease had led to a transplant and ultimately to her disability. She maintained regular doctor visits and dialysis treatments three times a week. Eventually, her condition worsened—Helen was found unconscious on the bathroom floor and transported to UNC Hospital by ambulance.
When she was admitted to UNC Hospital, Helen could only speak one or two words. Overnight, her condition declined further, and she was no longer able to follow commands. Tests revealed hypoxia, hypercapnia, and increased work of breathing, requiring intubation to protect her airway. Her medical team adjusted her medications due to concerns about cefepime toxicity and possible meningitis, given her immunosuppressed state. After she was unable to wean off the ventilator, Helen was transferred to Kindred Hospital for continued care and recovery.
At Kindred, Helen required ventilator weaning and dialysis. Her care involved close collaboration among all disciplines, including nursing, respiratory therapy, pulmonology, ENT, nephrology, physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, hospital medicine, pharmacy, lab services, and case management. Together, the team developed a comprehensive care plan to support her recovery.
With access to the hospital’s rehabilitation gym, Helen began regaining her strength. She progressed from requiring assistance with movement to standing and even feeding herself again. The respiratory team guided and encouraged her through capping trials, ultimately leading to successful decannulation. With the support and trust she placed in her care team, Helen recovered and was able to be discharged closer to her family, friends, and the garden she loves.
To read more success stories from patients of Kindred Hospital Greensboro, please visit http://Kindrd.care/6186fHqum.
