Soldier To Survivor: Richard

Our success story features a remarkable individual—a charismatic Vietnam veteran with ten years of service in the Army.

Meet Rich, a 77-year-old male who arrived at the Emergency Department experiencing severe chest pain, rated 10/10 in intensity, following recent chemotherapy. Testing revealed bilateral pulmonary embolisms. Rich lived alone in a home with a full flight of stairs. After spending a month in the hospital, he transitioned to Transitions Healthcare Allens Cove for short-term rehabilitation. Rich was highly deconditioned, requiring assistance for all activities of daily living and needing help with functional transfers and mobility – particularly his difficulty with managing stairs.

Over the course of therapy spanning just a few weeks, Rich progressed significantly. He is now independent with a rolling walker and can confidently navigate the full flight of stairs at home without assistance. Rich’s determination and motivation are evident—he continues to embrace each day with joy despite his ongoing battle with cancer, demonstrating remarkable progress and resilience in a short period.