Patient Journals – Rusty Sunde

December 18, 2006 (Monday)

I had the first surgery of the day – 7:30 am. Didn’t feel too nervous. Dr. Rogerson stopped in while they were getting me ready. Very nice man! What a confidence booster and a great personal touch. Dr. R. stopped in Tues. PM. He was very pleased with the way everything went and would see me again at Meriter HipHab.

We moved here on Wed. afternoon. Everyone we met was great – including the residents! Therapy went well and Desiree was super. She pushed me to the limit of what I could do without being pushy. Great motivation! I only had one person in the pool with Caroline and it was great. Julian (from Lodi), Berta (from Madison) and myself were the only three here. We nicknamed her the drill sergeant. It was a lot of fun! We only had the one session because of problems with the pool (too bad!). Friday went well. Desiree has me down to using one crutch as a cane. She said it won’t be long and I shouldn’t need it.

December 23, 2006 (Saturday)

Today I had my last therapy session with Paul D. He was just like everyone else. Looking out for my welfare and truly concerned about my rehab. Work with these people makes me want to help someone else! I can’t believe I’m moving so well when my surgery was only six days ago.

I get my staples removed tomorrow and head home. What a great Christmas present! (Almost forgot – today we are taking off for Christmas on my wife’s side of the family. Never thought I’d feel well enough for that.)

The residents here are incredible. Like having your own personal cheerleaders. They are friendly and seem concerned about your recovery. We met the couple next door and visited for a while with them. George and Edith. George is 102. They have lived here 30 years and love it here.

I would like to thank Dr. Rogerson and his staff for making me feel comfortable and confident from our first meeting. Thanks to Desiree and the other therapists for their attention and great care. (Congrats and good luck Desiree on your upcoming wedding. A special thank you for pushing me and your attention to detail with my walking. I know things are going to turn out great!)

To anyone who reads this, be assured you are in great hands! Everyone is working in your best interests. If I have to, someday, I’ll be back HERE!

Good luck to everyone!

Rusty Sunde
Rio, WI

P.S. A special thanks to my wife. Her love and support made everything go that much better. I love you, Weez!

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