Sheltering Arms Institute

02/17/2026

When Laura needed to have her knee replaced, she chose Sheltering Arms Institute based on strong recommendations from people she trusted. Between physical therapy sessions with Josh and C.J., Laura stays committed to strengthening her knee at home.

Our partnership with Limber Health helps us support patients beyond the clinic through one-on-one check-ins with a care navigator to guided exercise videos. “The videos are wonderful—if someone shows me in real time, I catch on so much faster,” she shared.

Watch how Laura uses our app to access her home exercise program and how it’s supporting her rehab journey.

02/16/2026

Congratulations to Dr. Richard Kunz, Chief Medical Officer at Sheltering Arms Institute and Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at VCU School of Medicine on the MCV Campus, on being named a 2026 Top Doctor by Virginia Business. This peer-nominated recognition reflects Dr. Kunz’s dedication to patient care and advancing the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation. Way to go, Dr. Kunz! 👏

02/13/2026

02/12/2026

Meet Danny! After experiencing a stroke in 2025, Danny spent 5 weeks in and out of the ICU before coming to Sheltering Arms Institute for our inpatient stroke rehabilitation program.

Danny’s stroke affected the left side of his body, his eyesight, and his cognitive abilities, so he had to relearn how to stand, walk, feed himself, and navigate his surroundings. As he prepared for life after inpatient rehab, Danny and his family also worked closely with our community engagement team to identify programs that would allow him to pursue both new and familiar hobbies back home in Virginia Beach.

It wasn’t easy, but with the support of his dedicated care team and our advanced rehabilitation technology, Danny learned to walk again, one step at a time, and achieved his goal of attending his daughter’s graduation! 🎓 Feeling supported as a family mattered deeply to Danny. “The nurses and therapists have all aided my family and me in having hope. And that’s a win for all of us,” he shared.

We’re so proud of how far you’ve come, Danny, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for your future! 💪✨

Learn more about our stroke rehab program at https://shelteringarmsinstitute.com/specialized-stroke-rehabilitation-center/.

02/11/2026

As we age, maintaining strength and mobility becomes increasingly important for long-term health and independence. Learn how the simple ability to perform a floor transfer, or to get up and down from the floor, can be a powerful indicator of functional fitness, longevity, and overall quality of life.

Maintaining strength and mobility becomes increasingly important for long-term health and independence. Learn how the ability to get up and down from the floor can be a powerful indicator of fitness, longevity, and overall quality of life.

02/10/2026

Kitchen spotlight! 🍳 Today, we’re shining a light on one of our many dedicated kitchen team members, Kenny! Born and raised in Richmond, Kenny has been cooking since he was just 12 years old and has been part of the Sheltering Arms Institute family for 3 ½ years.

Known for his upbeat attitude, friendly service, and the occasional song echoing through the kitchen, Kenny brings joy wherever he goes. “I’m a people person,” Kenny says. “I love to serve and get to know different people when I serve them.”

Whether he’s coming in as early as 5 a.m. on weekends to help prepare breakfast for patients and staff, or greeting café guests with a smile, Kenny shows up every day ready to make a difference. “Food really makes people feel good. Here at this hospital, where people already have a lot going on, they come down to the café to see somebody friendly, to see a smile, and to connect with someone – that’s what I do through food,” he shared.

Thank you, Kenny, for the meals you serve, the smiles you share, and the spirits you lift every single day! 🙌

02/09/2026

At Sheltering Arms Institute, Dr. Jessica Hupe’s resilience, empathy, and leadership never cease to inspire patients, trainees, and colleagues alike. Drawing from her own lived experience, she brings extraordinary compassion to rehabilitation medicine and a deep commitment to helping every patient see what’s possible. Her story is a powerful reminder that obstacles can become sources of strength.

We are so lucky to have her serve as the medical director of our multispecialty rehab unit and director of the VCU PM&R Residency Program! Learn more about Dr. Hupe’s journey and impact in this feature from VCU Health.

Jessica Hupe, M.D., from the Class of 2014, shares her personal experience as a congenital amputee and star athlete to inspire her patients and the next generation of physiatrists.

02/05/2026

We’ve got Superbowl Sunday on the brain! 🏈 Our team members are repping their favorite teams’ jersey to get hyped for the big game this weekend. Who are you rooting for? The Seattle Seahawks or New England Patriots? 👀

02/04/2026

February is American Heart Month! ❤️ Heart disease can take a serious toll on your overall health, especially when lifestyle risk factors go unmanaged. Check out our latest RehaBlog to learn about adopting a heart-healthy eating pattern and making proper nutrition choices to support cardiovascular health and reduce your risk over time.

Learn five foods to help you make proper nutrition choices and support cardiovascular health to reduce your risk of heart disease.

02/03/2026

Sending a big congratulations to our newest Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurses (CRRNs)! 👩‍⚕️

This national certification reflects a deep understanding of rehabilitation nursing and an unwavering dedication to patient care. We’re beyond grateful for these nurses and the meaningful difference they make in the lives of our patients every day. 👏

02/02/2026

This weekend, peer mentor, Sheltering Arms Foundation board member, and United Spinal Association of VA community partner representative Richard and his therapy pup, Star, had a special interaction with the monks walking for peace! Such a sweet and meaningful moment to witness. 🐾☮️ 🥹

01/30/2026

Advanced rehab technology in action! ⚙️ Jim is using the Motek RYSEN, a 3D piece of bodyweight support technology that allows for multi-directional movement, while working on his putting game. One of his goals is to be ready for his next golf trip in April. Looking strong, Jim! ⛳️👏