Story by Benita Martin, Gateway Medical Center
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – About 30 former and current Gateway Medial Center Inpatient Rehabilitation patients and their guests gathered for a reunion Oct. 24 at the hospital.
“Rehab patients stay with us for an average of two weeks, and in that time, strong bonds are made between staff and patients,” said Greg Palevo, Gateway’s Director of Inpatient Rehabilitation. “So we created this reunion for everyone to get back together to celebrate milestones.”
Staff nurses, therapists, and Dr. David Williams, Medical Director of the unit enjoyed seeing their special patients again. According to Palevo, “These patients have suffered disabling effects of injury, illness, or surgery and have worked hard to regain an active and independent lifestyle. It’s truly wonderful to see them again and witness how well they are doing.”
Former patient Nancy Hancock and husband James attended the celebration. “I was just so happy with the chance to see all the staff who took such good care of me when I was there for 10 days in May. There were times it was hard to get up and do it,” Hancock said about the therapy following her two total knee replacements, “but I am convinced it is why I am doing so well today. Every one of the staff was wonderful.”
Both Gateway staff and patients are eager to make the Reunion an annual event.
About Gateway Medical Center Inpatient Rehabilitation:
Inpatient Rehabilitation at Gateway Medical Center offers comprehensive rehab services for those with disabling effects of injury, illness, or surgery. All patients are treated in a therapeutic environment by a skilled, experienced nursing and therapy staff specializing in rehab services. Under the direction of a medical director, staff is dedicated to helping patients and their caregivers overcome or adapt to the effects of disabilities, so that they can return to an active and independent lifestyle as quickly as possible.