When I first came to Avantara Joliet, I thought Iwas just here to get rehab after dealing with ablood clot. My knee was hurting, I was unsteadyon my feet, and I figured the therapy would focuson helping me walk again. What I didn’t realize wasthat something much more serious was going on.On one of my first days here, Sheila, one of thenurses, noticed something concerning with my leg.She immediately took action, ordering tests andalerting the care team. Thanks to her attentivenessand quick response, I was able to return to thehospital for further procedures. While I eventuallyneeded an amputation, I’m grateful for howthorough and proactive Sheila was—her caremade all the difference in catching things earlyand helping me get the treatment I needed.Coming back to Avantara after the surgery, I knewI had a long road ahead. The therapists have beensteady in keeping me focused—pushing me when Iwant to quit, but also reminding me how far I’vecome. Now I can walk longer distances, spendtime on the exercise bike, and put pressure on myleg without as much pain. Each day feels likeprogress.What makes the difference here is the people.Whether it’s Sheila catching something soimportant, the CNAs who treat me with kindness,or the therapists who push me just enough, I feelsupported in every step.My goal when I get home is to tackle the stairs inmy house so I can move around freely again. Butwhat I’m most looking forward to is being backwith my wife and our dog, Zoe. Getting home tothem is what keeps me working hard in therapy.

Keith C.