Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of North Tampa

08/01/2025

Join us in celebrating Marchae Lee on her promotion to director of therapy operations at Encompass Health Kissimmee.

At Encompass Health, we value opportunity, growth and recognizing excellence. Marchae is a true example of all three. Her dedication, leadership and passion for patient care have made a lasting impact, and we are proud to see her take this next step.

We wish you continued success, Marchae, as you lead with heart and inspire others every day.

Join us in congratulating Marchae in the comments!

07/31/2025

Have you noticed the foods you once enjoyed don’t quite taste the same? As you get older, your taste buds change for many reasons — some natural, others linked to health conditions or medications. Without the right guidance, these changes can affect your appetite and overall well-being. A registered dietitian shares tips on how to keep your meals tasty as well as healthy as you age.

Why Does Your Sense of Taste Change as You Age? Find out how aging, the olfactory system and other factors can affect taste.

07/28/2025

Watch Jimmy participate in high-intensity gait training, a therapy that has been shown to significantly improve walking function in individuals recovering from strokes.

Using our advanced technologies, he is working with his therapists Samantha and Lily to focus on improving balance, coordination and mobility. This challenging therapy is helping him rebuild strength and confidence step by step.

We are inspired by Jimmy’s dedication and proud of the progress he is making.

07/25/2025

Watch as John works on strengthening his hip and core muscles after a stroke to improve stability and balance with his physical therapist Jia Gates. Every rep is a step closer to greater independence. Keep up the amazing work!

07/24/2025

Did you know that playing board games could improve brain health and help prevent dementia in older adults? It is a great way to increase working memory and cognitive function as you age. So grab a partner and pick your favorite game. Whether it’s Chess, Scrabble or Checkers, let us know your favorite in the comments.

Games of your youth may be valuable as you age. Play these brain games to prevent dementia and exercise the mind.

07/23/2025

At Encompass Health, recovery isn’t confined to a hospital room. Our patients can engage in outdoor therapy, using nature as a partner in their rehabilitation. Whether it’s practicing walking on different surfaces, engaging in activities like gardening and golf or simply enjoying the fresh air and sunshine — the outdoors plays a powerful role in the healing process.

07/22/2025

Teri Campbell, a 55-year-old elementary school teacher, was admitted to Encompass Health after fracturing her hip and was also diagnosed with cancer. Having missed her yougest son's graduation while she was in the hospital, we didn't want Teri to miss another major event. Her goal was to walk down the aisle and dance with her son at his wedding, and we're thrilled to see that this dream became a reality.

We are so thankful to have been part of Teri’s accomplishments. We wish her all the best with her treatments moving forward!

07/22/2025

Check out this incredible handstand by our patient Cassie, who worked hard in physical therapy with physical therapist Meghan and her student Alexis to build strength, balance and confidence. After a prolonged hospitalization that left her with strength and balance impairments, Cassie is now making it look easy. We love seeing our patients achieve their goals in
such inspiring ways!

07/18/2025

After being admitted with an ankle fracture that left her dependent just to get out of bed, Linda Brown is ringing the therapy
bell today. With the support of therapists Erin and Judy, she worked hard to regain her independence and is now heading home able to complete transfers on her own. We are so proud of her determination and progress and congratulate her
on this huge milestone.

07/17/2025

After a life-changing diagnosis, it may be difficult to think of all the questions to ask your physician. You may be wondering about your next steps and where to go if you need additional medical care. Ask your doctor these four important questions to help you understand your care and make an informed decision.

After a serious illness or injury, your doctor may recommend post-acute care. Understand the settings, so you can advocate for your care.

07/15/2025

Meet Thelma Cathey, a joyful and determined patient at Encompass Health. Thelma came to us after a hospital stay for complications related to her kidneys. When it came time for rehabilitation, she chose Encompass Health because of the great care her husband received here in the past.

Upon admission, Thelma was weak and needed significant help. But she had a clear goal - to regain her independence with transfers and walking. Through hard work and dedication, she achieved exactly that.On discharge day, Thelma walked out with a big smile and our team couldn’t be prouder of her progress. Congratulations, Thelma!

07/15/2025

After an amputation, Rene is not only rebuilding strength in therapy but also lifting hearts through music. With a guitar in hand and a powerful voice, he reminds us all that a positive outlook and passion can carry us through anything. His resilience continues to inspire everyone around him.

07/14/2025

If you’re spending time in the water this summer, think before you dive in. Diving is a leading cause of spinal cord injury and can lead to paralysis. Whether you’re at the beach or poolside, remember to jump feet first to avoid an injury that could change your life forever.

07/11/2025

Tylene came to Encompass Health after experiencing a stroke that affected her ability to walk, vision and balance. With determination and the support of her dedicated physical therapist Shivika and occupational therapist Jeanine, she made significant progress throughout her stay. She walked out of our hospital with a walker.

Today, she returned to visit us thriving, independent and walking on her own in the community. It is a true joy to witness her progress and see her smiling alongside the therapists who helped her on her journey.

07/10/2025

Did you know 15% of caregivers are long-distance? Being a caregiver often comes without a warning after a loved one experiences an accident or illness. It is possible to still care for your loved ones even if you live far away.

Long-distance caregiving can be challenging, but there are ways to stay connected and keep your loved one save, even from afar.

07/09/2025

It’s Therapeutic Recreation Week! In recognition of it, we’re celebrating the incredible impact of recreational therapy in helping our patients recover, rebuild and rediscover what brings them joy. From adaptive games to dancing and golf, our therapy teams are here to help our patients get back to the recreations they love — proving that recreation is more than fun; it’s therapy.

07/08/2025

Alex Franco was admitted to Encompass Health following a cardiac stent placement. Upon arrival, Alex wanted to get back to doing the things he loves, such exercising, biking and gardening. Alex was also accustomed to starting his mornings with a headstand. He shared that he was doing a headstand every morning prior to his condition. This was a goal for him when he arrived at our hospital - and our team helped him achieve it. Thank you, Alex, for trusting us with your care!

07/07/2025

From not being able to stand to swinging a club again, our patient Michael, and avid golfer, is back on the green during an occupational therapy session with therapist Ally.

Together, they are working on balance, trunk rotation and soaking up the Florida sun. It is incredible progress and even better motivation.

07/04/2025

Happy Independence Day from Encompass Health! Today, we celebrate freedom in every form — especially the hard-earned victories of our patients as they regain strength, confidence and independence.

Across our hospitals, ringing the independence bell marks more than a discharge — it’s a powerful symbol of determination, recovery and the next chapter. Wishing everyone a safe, meaningful and hopeful Fourth of July!

07/03/2025

The kitchen is said to be the heart of the home and the center of family gatherings. Because of that, it is essential to ensure it’s a safe, accessible space, especially for older adults. Falls and burns are the leading causes of household injuries amongst seniors. These tips can help you address safety concerns in the home early.


The kitchen can become unsafe as you get older. Kitchen safety for seniors is possible if you follow some of these tips.

06/30/2025

Does advanced age or limited mobility have you concerned about planning your next great getaway? Being a certain age or living with a disability can present challenges when traveling, but today there are more options than ever for those with limited mobility. With some advanced planning, you can visit the destination of your dreams be it by plane, train or automobile.

✈️ Traveling by plane:
- Arrive early. Allow two to three hours for domestic flights and more if traveling internationally.
- Book a wheelchair when you are booking your flight, and let your airline know at check in that you reserved a wheelchair.
- If you require a wheelchair during the flight, the request must be made 48 hours in advance.

🚂 Traveling by train:
- Check to see if discounts apply. Some rail companies offer discounts to those with disabilities or caregivers.
- Be sure to book wheeled mobility device space, wheelchair transfer accessible seats and accessible bedrooms.
- Make sure you to have your proof of disability with you.

🚘️ Traveling by automobile
- Swivel car cushions can help assist you in getting in and out of the vehicle.
- If you use a wheelchair, scooter or powerchair, make sure the vehicle has a lift.
- Check public transportation and ride sharing programs in advance to ensure they have accessible vehicles.