Kevin McClure

Kevin chose BRRH to regain his function and independence following a recent hospitalization.

Though he lives with Parkinson’s disease, Kevin McClure lived a largely independent life before his recent hospitalization. “It made getting around challenging,” Kevin said of Parkinson’s, “but I was still able to do what I wanted to do.”

Parkinson’s also taught Kevin not to mess around regarding his health. So, when he began experiencing shortness of breath and a cough, he went to the ER at IU Health Bloomington Hospital. There, Kevin was admitted with an infection that had gone to his lungs, as well as an exacerbation of his COPD and Parkinson’s. Unfortunately, Kevin’s health got worse before it got better, as he developed septic shock, impairments to his heart and kidneys, and required a tracheostomy.

“I couldn’t even lift my arms,” Kevin recalled. “I needed a lift just to get out of bed.”

After spending thirty days in the hospital, Kevin transferred to Bloomington Regional Rehabilitation Hospital at the recommendation of his doctor and case managers. “A liaison from BRRH came in and talked to me about the requirements, explained the program, and the benefits,” he noted. “They took care of all the insurance issues and arranged the transfer.”

When Kevin arrived at BRRH, he was so debilitated that it wasn’t clear if he’d even return home. He required a mechanical lift and assistance from two people for all mobility. But despite the significant challenge he faced, Kevin also arrived equipped with the motivation to work hard and the support of his family.

“I’m motivated to get home,” Kevin said about his determination. “I have been away from my home for seven weeks now. I live thirty miles from here. I am looking forward to being a free man again. I was independent, liked to do my own thing, and was always one who wanted to help, not be helped.”

After a few weeks of rehabilitation at BRRH, Kevin has made tremendous progress. He can ambulate 150 feet with a walker and minimal assistance from a caregiver. And he gives credit to the staff for his incredible recovery.

“Everyone here keeps telling me how great I did, but I just did what they asked. The staff here is excellent. Charlene (PT) was able to help me get off oxygen. Lori was the first to get me walking. My OTs, Fatu and Kaitlyn, helped me, and my nurses, too many to name. They were all so eager to help me and went above and beyond. Emma, specifcally, went out of her way consistently to help me improve. Dr. Dugan was always nice and took the time to talk and listen to me, and Denise and Nikki (NPs) were always very nice and available.”

“I have never been to a medical place that was so helpful and willing to make accommodations to make sure I was happy. From food service to therapy to nursing, everyone was so accommodating.

Upon completion of his stay at BRRH, Kevin returned home with his wife. “I look forward to continuing to get better and helping out my wife,” he stated.