Christmas day should be a time for togetherness, celebration and reflection with loved ones, not a time to be stuck in the hospital.  Such was the case for 38-year-old, and mother of two, Maria “Angie” Resendiz.

Angie was picking up wrapping paper after a busy Christmas morning when her foot got stuck on her pajama pants and she fell.  Injuries to her knee, ligaments and ankle were extensive.  The doctors forewarned her that rehabilitation from surgery would be long and too difficult to do at home – it would be weeks before she could put weight on her legs.

Angie’s husband did research on local short-term rehabilitation centers.  “Privacy, comfort, cleanliness and staying connected to my family were the most important factors for me,” said Maria. “When we visited the Lutheran Home, we were immediately impressed with how welcoming and clean it was.  It didn’t have that ‘hospital’ or ‘nursing home’ feel to it.”

“I love the fact that my room has WiFi – it was necessary for me to find a place with internet connections and privacy.  At the Lutheran Home, I have my own room and a private bathroom. I especially like that my family can come and go anytime – there are no visiting hours – I can call my husband to bring me something as simple as lotion at 9:00 at night and he is able to come.”

Angie admits that she was apprehensive about recovering in a retirement community, but “it’s so much more than that.”

“I really do love it here, and everyone is so nice,” said Angie.  “I can participate in group activities and discussions, or I can stay in my room and read if I want.  Sure, I would rather be home, but this is a great alternative.”

The Lutheran Home has more than 50 rooms dedicated to short-term rehabilitation patients of all ages as we help them move forward after illness, injury or surgery that has set them back.  Lutheran Home offers modern and comprehensive services to assist patients who run the gamut of specific needs.