Page 11 - Senior Times South Central Michigan April 2023 - 30-04

Senior Times - April 2023
Page 11
THE CHOICE IS TO CHOOSE JOY
As told to Lyn Briel, Thornapple Manor
The Sherry Wetzel Journey with Tardive Dyskinesia – Sherry Wetzel was faced with the expectation of a life that appeared to be unraveling into existence in a nursing home.
She began to have a glimmer of hope, which included the possible option to return home. She credits the positivity that surround- ed her and the care team with creating an environment of healing and love.
A side effect of prescription medication that she had been taking for a very long time, Tardive Dyskinesia, is a condition that took over control of her body. The physicians recommended a facility in Grand Rapids to assist her through the end of her days. Bill, her husband of 47 years, stood by her side throughout those days bringing her comfort and support. Traveling to Grand Rapids was a barrier for Bill. He wanted her closer to their Hastings home. He was determined to get
her transferred to Thornapple Manor because it was known in the community as the best place for her to receive the care needed for her diagnosis.
She began to lean on her strong faith in God. Her husband, family, team of caregivers, and friends became her motivation to succeed. Brenda, the social worker, describes Sherry as, “A gem. She is vibrant, motivated, deter- mined, and began to choose life over despair. She would take small, personal achievements and would radiate joy in those successes while encouraging others.” Yes, she faced some extreme challenges, including the long process of getting off the debilitating drug.
It was not overnight, but with help from the physicians, nurses, and staff who surrounded her every day with a can-do attitude, she won!
Her “girls,” the team from Life Enrichment, cele- brate Sherry’s great accomplishments on her last day at Thornapple Manor with a party and cake.
Sherry was transferred to the Rehab Center at Thornapple Manor to begin therapy at her bedside in February 2022 with a team of in-house rehab experts, and caregivers. She states her Tardive Dyskinesia was so severe
it created additional challenges mirroring Parkinson-like symptoms.
“The team at Thornapple Manor, from the housekeeper to Administrator, took such good care of me and wrapped me in their arms.” Sherry continued, “The nurse for my neigh- borhood would hold me close when I was discouraged; pray with me when needed; and encouraged me by acknowledging each new movement. Cody kept my therapy on target. Kelly was a nurse aide who brought humor back into my world.” There were many, many more employees that Sherry spoke about. She said she could not stop at the few mentioned before. So many individuals touched her life. Assistant director of nursing, Hope Bailey, told Sherry that it is genuinely uplifting to watch her progress and noted that loving care, the time to heal, and her determination were just what she needed.
team became her “girls.” Knowing that Sherry’s simple pleasure had been painting, they gave her new paint. They had her teach art to other residents and gave her a reason to live her life to the fullest. By July, she began to feel freedom for the first time – a life off the debilitating brain-altering medications and one filled with laughter, purpose, and promise.
Chris Steinke, the beautician at Thornapple Manor gives Sherry a new haircut before she graduates home.
As the tremors became more manageable, she sought out ways to give back to other res- idents and employees. The Life Enrichment
story comes such joy! Sherry and Bill left together on Valentine’s weekend. The goal to go back home was achieved, and she is inde- pendent. She is able to live, paint, and grow. She promises, because so many gave to her, she will continue to give back to those around her. Sherry and Bill plan to return to volun- teer at Thornapple Manor to help others feel the love and support they received during her healing journey.
Sherry stated that, “No one gave up on me. They lifted my physical and mental well-be- ing to where I could start making choices for myself. I chose to choose joy. Always
choose joy.”
Goals are important in life, and with this
EVERYTHING
When we ask patients about what we do best, this is their answer. It’s what the survey says! Specializing in short-term inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, 24-hour skilled memory and long-term care. 269-945-2407 www.thornapplemanor.com
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