Eugene was working full-time and living life to the fullest with his spouse until April 2024, when everything changed. It started when he began to feel unusually fatigued and developed a fever that lasted for two weeks. These symptoms prompted a visit to Hershey Medical Center where he learned he had bacterial meningitis and a blood infection, likely linked to a lung mass. A CT and MRI scan revealed more troubling news: bilateral embolic strokes, probably caused by infectious endocarditis. To fight the infections, Eugene received a course of powerful IV antibiotics. But due to the impact on his health and the need for ongoing care, he was transferred to Spang Crest, a Luthercare community in Lebanon, for rehabilitation.
When Eugene arrived at Spang Crest, he needed significant assistance to move in bed and to stand up. Getting from one surface to another required a standing lift, as he struggled with weakness, impaired balance, and poor coordination. His diet was altered to include pureed foods, and he faced challenges with short-term memory, organization, and language articulation.
On May 3, 2024, Eugene began his rehab journey, with physical, occupational, and speech therapy provided by Spang Crest’s therapy partner, HealthPRO Heritage. His dedicated rehab team developed personalized goals and plans to help him regain his strength, balance, mobility, and independence in self-care, while also addressing his cognitive, speech, and swallowing challenges. Eugene’s therapy sessions focused on building his strength and balance so he could stand, transfer, and walk independently again. He was determined to reclaim his daily activities, while also working hard to improve his speech and memory.
After 92 days of dedicated effort and teamwork, Eugene made remarkable progress. He was able to return home to his community alongside his spouse, confidently using a rollator walker for support, completing daily tasks with minimal help, enjoying a regular diet, and experiencing significant improvements in his memory and conversational skills.
Reflecting on his journey, Eugene shared, “I could not have gotten to where I am today without all the help the staff provided.” His spouse, Lorraine, echoed his sentiments, saying, “What stands out to me the most is how caring every member of Eugene’s team was from the very beginning. Not only for Gene and the situation he was in, but also for me. They continually gave us the hope we needed to stay positive and continue this fight. I was not expecting this high level of care and support, and I will be forever grateful for everyone who was there for us through this challenging time.”
If you’d like to learn more about the rehabilitative services offered athrough Luthercare, be sure to visit our Rehab-to-Home page.
About Luthercare:
Celebrating 75 years of service, Luthercare, a social ministry organization affiliated with the Lower Susquehanna Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and a member of Lutheran Services in America, is a leading provider of independent, personal care and skilled nursing care residences in Lancaster and Lebanon counties. Luthercare operates Luther Acres, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Lititz, Pa.; Spang Crest, a rehabilitation center, skilled nursing care and personal care with memory support community in Lebanon, Pa.; and St. John’s Herr Estate, an independent living and personal care community in Columbia, Pa. Additionally, Luthercare operates PA Keystone Stars-accredited childcare and early learning centers in Annville and Reamstown. Luthercare, a pioneer in Childcare Programs, also offers a Mentoring Program that aids family childcare home providers in Lancaster and Lebanon counties.