About two years ago, Mickey Rogers lost his right leg. Then, while he was in the hospital recovering from an above-the-knee amputation, his home caught fire and burned.
Practically homeless at the time, Rogers entered Quinton Memorial Health and Rehabilitation, part of Hamilton Health Care System. Today, he’s walking with his new prosthetic, has an apartment he calls his own, and plans visits to Quinton for outpatient services and to see old friends.
Getting to this point was a long process. First, his amputation wounds had to heal. Then his supporting muscles had to be strengthened. Once he was finally fitted for his new prosthetic leg, he had to learn how to use it and care for his skin.
Learn he did. Eventually, slowly, Rogers could stand on his new prosthetic then walk with the aid of a walker. Soon, he learned how to manage independently and was walking around throughout the facility making friends.
“I was unsure at first, but after I started rehab, I became stronger and all of the staff at Quinton were kind and understanding,” he said. “I am so lucky to have lived at Quinton and will recommend it to anyone I know. I am returning to the community because of all the efforts made.”
As Rogers grew stronger, he set his sights on living, once again, on his own. Quinton Social Services Director Laura Sangster assisted with finding an apartment, and when he was ready to be discharged, it was time for the bittersweet goodbye.
Christy Callaway, director of rehab at Quinton, said Rogers pushed himself hard and inspired others. He wasn’t only a patient, she said, but also an encourager who grew to develop friendships with staff and patients alike. When new residents came to stay, Rogers supported them in adjusting to their new home.
“You would see him go and visit and even invite others to dine at meals,” she said. “Through community resources and the staff at Quinton, he had everything he needed to start over,” Callaway said. “After a follow-up visit, he was healthy, happy, receiving home health therapy and had a fully furnished apartment.”