White recovers from foot surgery at Life Care Center of Andover

Debra White had to have surgery on her left foot due to degenerative arthritis, and she chose to do her rehabilitation at Life Care Center of Andover, Kansas, after the procedure.

When White arrived in February 2018, she needed some assistance to walk, transfer from one surface to another, balance while standing and sitting, take care of daily grooming tasks, bathe, get dressed and manage her medications.

Five days a week for 90 days, White took part in physical and occupational therapies to increase her strength, mobility and independence. Physical therapists used seated lower-body exercises and gait training, while occupational therapists taught her upper-body exercises and retrained her in her self-care skills.

"Debra was always ready to work hard toward her long-term goal of getting stronger," said Todd Grisier, occupational therapist.

"Therapy got me where I am today," said White. "I was unable to walk. Everyone worked just as hard as I did. They were patient with me. Life Care is a good place to be, long or short. They keep you busy. It went so fast for me. I made a lot of friends here and will miss everyone."

White returned home on April 10. She could use a rolling walker to get around the house and was able to take care of herself with some adaptations.