Life Care Center of Osawatomie helps patient start a new life

Teresa Covey was living in Chanute, Kansas, with a friend when she fell down several stairs and broke her back.

Covey had back surgery at the University of Kansas Medical Center, and unfortunately, due to the financial setback, she lost everything, from her car to items she had in a storage unit. She came to Life Care Center of Osawatomie, Kansas, on Nov. 16, 2016.

When Covey arrived, she could barely talk, could not walk and was in extreme pain. For the next nine months, she took part in physical, occupational and speech therapies.

As Covey recovered her independence and neared the end of her rehabilitation program, she needed to start looking for a place to live. Associates in several departments helped her get a plan in place. The social services team worked with her to apply for Medicaid and get approved for her disability, and she decided to find an apartment in Osawatomie to be near the support team and friends she had made at the facility.

"I could not have done any of this without my family and friends at Life Care Center of Osawatomie," said Covey. "I am excited to be walking and going out into the community. It means everything to me to be able to move out. That was my goal."

Tammi Conner, activity director, connected Covey with her congregation, The Barn Church, which helped her get items she needed for her home, including a bed, sofa, microwave, dishes, lamps, towels, a toaster and other home goods.

"I am so very grateful to The Barn Church for everything they have done and donated," said Covey.

Covey moved into her apartment on Nov. 1, 2017, and has plans to return to visit for Life Care Center of Osawatomie's Thanksgiving dinner.