Life Care Center of Stoneham helps stroke patient regain hope, independence

Erick Guillet’s story is one of not giving up.

Erick had two strokes – one in 2012 and one in 2018. They left him unable to do much with his left side. He was at another skilled nursing facility but came to Life Care Center of Stoneham, Massachusetts, in summer 2020.

At first, Erick and the facility team weren’t sure how much he would be able to progress. However, the rehabilitation and nursing teams were determined to help him restore as much independence as possible. It was a daunting task, especially in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic and limited exercise options.

Erick participated in the facility’s neuro rehab program with a focus on safety and normalizing his movement patterns during walking.

“After seeing changes in his day-to-day social rapport and his willingness to get better, he made amazing progress with strength and control of his weak side,” said Ngozi Amadi, activity director.

Erick was able to go from needing moderate assistance with mobility and moderate to maximum assistance with his self-care, to only needing standby or minimum assistance with his self-care. He can walk 150 feet at a time with someone steadying him.

Even after making progress in rehab, Erick had another hurdle to overcome.

“He continued to express a desire to return to the community, but he had a limited support system,” said Melissa Carpenter, director of rehab services.

Kara Farrington, social worker, helped to make his discharge possible. She worked with the Massachusetts Acquired Brain Injury Program to find him an apartment and set him up with home caregivers.

Erick moved into his new two-bedroom apartment on April 20, excited to rejoin the greater Boston Haitian American community.

“I am very happy to be here,” Erick said. “You guys are so good, and I will miss you all. Thank you for everything.”