Mary's story
Shu Fang Yan, a 52-year-old financial consultant, never imagined that a simple gardening accident would change her life. Known affectionately by her family and friends as Mary, she led an active life, balancing her career with enjoying time with her husband, Kent, and their two children, Teresa and Christopher.
One day while gardening, Mary passed out due to low blood pressure, falling backwards and suffering an incomplete fracture to her cervical spine. The cervical spine is the neck region of the spinal column or backbone. She was rushed to University Hospital Newark by ambulance, where she underwent surgery, including an open reduction, laminectomy, decompression and fusion of her cervical spine, to reduce pressure and promote stability.
After ten days in the hospital, Mary faced substantial challenges: she could not walk, perform daily tasks or take care of herself. Mary chose Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation (KIR) - West Orange for her recovery based on a recommendation from her acute care team. She expressed her primary goal to the KIR - West Orange team: "With God's grace, to walk out of Kessler with a walker."
During her time at Kessler, Mary engaged in a comprehensive rehabilitation program, which included occupational therapy and physical therapy. Her many therapies included electrical stimulation, mat mobility, a LiteGait harness (used for support while standing and walking) and fine motor tasks. A bowel and bladder program and blood pressure management were also a vital part of Mary’s treatment plan.
Mary recalled the key turning points in her recovery vividly. "My first afternoon, when I realized my legs started to regain movement and the first time I went to the bathroom on my own," she shared. These milestones marked significant progress and boosted her confidence.
As she improved, Mary's KIR - West Orange team introduced recreational therapy, which included simulated cake decorating and the use of electronic aids for daily living (EADLs) in occupational therapy. She utilized the GlassOuse Assistive Device, a wireless head mouse that allowed her to manage her computer through head movements, voice control and adapted mice as her strength and coordination improved.
Throughout her rehabilitation, Mary’s family and church members played an indispensable role in her recovery. "My family were always my biggest supporters and had lots of hands-on training. My church members were always there for my spiritual needs," Mary said. Their love and support, combined with the encouragement from her therapists and nurses, helped her stay motivated and engaged.
Mary’s rehabilitation experience at KIR - West Orange was positive. "Excellent therapy," she said, reflecting on the comprehensive care she received. As she looked forward to continuing her rehabilitation as an outpatient, Mary remained deeply committed to working on her strength in order to regain full independence.
In sharing her journey, she hopes to inspire others facing similar challenges: "Keep your faith and don't give up."
One day while gardening, Mary passed out due to low blood pressure, falling backwards and suffering an incomplete fracture to her cervical spine. The cervical spine is the neck region of the spinal column or backbone. She was rushed to University Hospital Newark by ambulance, where she underwent surgery, including an open reduction, laminectomy, decompression and fusion of her cervical spine, to reduce pressure and promote stability.
After ten days in the hospital, Mary faced substantial challenges: she could not walk, perform daily tasks or take care of herself. Mary chose Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation (KIR) - West Orange for her recovery based on a recommendation from her acute care team. She expressed her primary goal to the KIR - West Orange team: "With God's grace, to walk out of Kessler with a walker."
During her time at Kessler, Mary engaged in a comprehensive rehabilitation program, which included occupational therapy and physical therapy. Her many therapies included electrical stimulation, mat mobility, a LiteGait harness (used for support while standing and walking) and fine motor tasks. A bowel and bladder program and blood pressure management were also a vital part of Mary’s treatment plan.
Mary recalled the key turning points in her recovery vividly. "My first afternoon, when I realized my legs started to regain movement and the first time I went to the bathroom on my own," she shared. These milestones marked significant progress and boosted her confidence.
As she improved, Mary's KIR - West Orange team introduced recreational therapy, which included simulated cake decorating and the use of electronic aids for daily living (EADLs) in occupational therapy. She utilized the GlassOuse Assistive Device, a wireless head mouse that allowed her to manage her computer through head movements, voice control and adapted mice as her strength and coordination improved.
Throughout her rehabilitation, Mary’s family and church members played an indispensable role in her recovery. "My family were always my biggest supporters and had lots of hands-on training. My church members were always there for my spiritual needs," Mary said. Their love and support, combined with the encouragement from her therapists and nurses, helped her stay motivated and engaged.
Mary’s rehabilitation experience at KIR - West Orange was positive. "Excellent therapy," she said, reflecting on the comprehensive care she received. As she looked forward to continuing her rehabilitation as an outpatient, Mary remained deeply committed to working on her strength in order to regain full independence.
In sharing her journey, she hopes to inspire others facing similar challenges: "Keep your faith and don't give up."