Life Care Center of Morehead helps determined amputee recover

Deborah Hawkins recently had a below-knee amputation from a diabetic ulcer.

She came to Life Care Center of Morehead on Jan. 19, 2017. She was in a lot of pain when she arrived and couldn't stand, but she wasn't discouraged.

Upon arriving at the facility, Hawkins was evaluated by the physical and occupational therapists. She showed a decrease in strength, balance and endurance. She also required assistance with all transfers and required maximum assistance with dressing tasks.

Hawkins was determined to get stronger and participate daily in therapy, despite her pain level being a nine out of 10. While waiting on her prosthetic leg to arrive, therapists worked on strengthening, range of motion and endurance.

Within six weeks, Hawkins received her prosthetic leg and was ready to take on new challenges. Therapists worked with her on hip flexion and extension, transfers and standing tolerance exercises.

"They were all good with me," said Hawkins. "I'd give therapy a 10."

After therapy, Hawkins was able to walk 200 feet using a rolling walker, perform all modified transfers and activities of daily living, such as cooking and bathing with supervision.

Though Hawkins had a home assessment done, she decided she preferred the socialization of Life Care Center of Morehead. She is now a permanent resident and is already making plans to run for Resident Council president in the upcoming election.