Seventy-year-old Dennis Gawronski struggled with a wound on his right foot that wouldn’t heal. After performing several procedures, doctors determined he needed a below-the-knee amputation. Following the amputation last summer, Dennis began his rehabilitation at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Northwest Ohio (RHNO). During this first stay at RHNO, he worked with therapists Amanda, Courtney, Shannon, and Monika to successfully achieve his therapy goals. After being discharged, Dennis continued working with Shannon from RHNO through home healthcare.

Dennis returned to RHNO in the fall to begin prosthetic training, where his goal was to walk with a cane. In under two weeks, not only did Dennis reach his goal of walking with a cane, he even took steps without using equipment. He continues to make progress in strength, balance, and independent walking. He is functioning above expectations.

Dennis and his wife, Ann, are thankful for the care and attention they received at RHNO. “When it comes to the staff, you have the best of the best in every single department,” Dennis says. “It’s difficult to single out one or two staff members to recognize because every person I came in contact with was amazing.”

In addition to the therapists, Dennis says that Dr. Stephen Farrell was instrumental in helping with the amputation decision. “He took extra time with our family, and we greatly appreciate it,” he says.

Pleased with his progress, Dennis looks forward to walking in the park, doing yard work, and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events.