Rick Deluca

Rick Deluca with his therapy team at Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital: Lead Therapist Ben Adams, PT, DPT, Emily Hegarty, COTA and Ruth Amagliani, PT, DPT.

Rick Deluca, 63, considers himself “super active”. He lives in Northeaster, CO with his spouse. They enjoy traveling together, and Rick also enjoys fly fishing and hunting. That is, when Rick isn’t working as a full-time heavy equipment operator.

One day, Rick was involved in a front loader accident while transporting pipes at work. Driving the front loader downhill, it buckled up and threw Rick headfirst into the windshield. He remembers being unable to get up and felt paralyzed from the neck down.

At the hospital, doctors diagnosed Rick with an incomplete traumatic spinal cord injury from severe stenosis at C3-4 and C4-5. Rick underwent an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. With surgery a success, Rick would need inpatient rehabilitation before returning home. His neurosurgeon recommended Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital.

Rick is thrilled with the recommendation.

“The nurses and PCTs have been excellent! They are caring, friendly, respectful, and check on me all the time,” Rick said. “The way they all care for me has touched my heart.”

“The leadership team has done an amazing job running this facility,” Rick continued. “The staff they hire is wonderful! Everyone has been so helpful during my stay, and I attribute it to the phenomenal leadership.”

The combination of clinical excellence provided by compassionate caregivers with Rick’s focus and determination produced great results.

“My success is due to pushing myself and following the directions given to me by my therapists,” Rick stated. “But what influenced my recovery the most is believing in God. Life is a gift and we have to nurture it every day.”

“I truly believe it is important to not give up and fight, since I have a lot of life left to live!”

Rick began to see the light at the end of the tunnel when he reached his first milestone — walking eight feet. “I just kept my eye on the prize, which was getting home!”

Before long, Rick claimed that prize, discharging home from NCRH. Rick is most excited about getting back to his hobbies and “just enjoying life”. Right before his accident, Rick bought a 911 Porsche Carrera. He remains determined to drive his dream car — he even kept a picture in his rehab room!

“I would recommend anyone with injuries to come to NCRH,” Rick said, reflecting on his stay. “It has been nothing but a great experience!”

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Nancy Ross

After breaking her hip in a fall at home, Nancy Ross came to Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital to regain her independence.

Nancy Ross lived a very social life before her hospitalization. She was active with her church, played bridge, and hung out with her friends and neighbors. She spent as much time as possible with her two kids and four grandchildren.

Then one day, Nancy fell at home while getting dressed. She suffered a closed displaced subtrochanteric fracture of the left femur, a type of hip fracture. Nancy also suffered a left colles fracture, which is a break in the forearm. To repair the broken hip, Nancy underwent surgery.

After surgery, Nancy needed rehabilitation to regain her independent lifestyle. She chose Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital to help her achieve that goal. Some of Nancy’s friends had been patients in the past and loved the care they received.

Nancy’s recovery was fueled by her motivation to get home. Strong support from her kids, who called Nancy every day, also helped her healing.

The hospital staff also played a key role according to Nancy. “Everyone that works here is a team, and I am so thankful to have worked with all of them! The housekeepers especially get gold stars. They were always so helpful, talkative, and smiling!” [My therapists] were very competent and gave me the confidence to feel I will be okay when I discharge home.”

Nancy considers her stay a successful one.

“Success is knowing I am discharging home today and have been given all the “tricks” on how to do well at home alone,” Nancy stated. “The fact that I can transfer alone is success, especially with all my weight-bearing restrictions!”

Excited to get home, Nancy plans to take one day at a time. Her future goals are to get back to her prior life and drive again! Nancy has two quotes for life she wishes to share: “Find something good about every day!” and “If you have humor and you have faith, you make it in life!”

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Valerie Kline

Valerie Kline is using her Alinker walking bike again after recovering from COVID-19.

Valerie Kline lived an active life prior to her recent hospitalization. She worked as a full-time rehabilitation manager at an acute care hospital. Valerie, 62, enjoys cooking, reading, and bike riding on her recumbent trike. She uses an Alinker walking bike due to impaired mobility from multiple sclerosis. Valerie also loves spending time with her two sons and two granddaughters, traveling to historic places, and visiting monasteries.

One April day Valerie began to feel nauseous. A few days later, shortness of breath set in and she developed a fever. Valerie got progressively weaker to the point where she couldn’t move. She called an ambulance which transported her to the acute care hospital. Doctors diagnosed her with acute respiratory failure and administered a COVID-19 test.

The test came back positive.

After two weeks in the acute care hospital, Valerie healed enough to transition to a lower level of care. She chose Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital to help her transition home. Valerie was familiar with NCRH from visiting when the hospital opened in 2005. That visit impressed Valerie. She also knew some of the therapists working at NCRH, and her kids live in the area.

“I can’t think of one single complaint,” Valerie said of her experience at NCRH. “Everyone was very kind, caring, and attentive. [They have] great therapists that are highly experienced and kept me moving toward my goal of improved mobility to go home.”

One of the things that most impressed Valerie was the involvement of Brenda Simon, the hospital CEO. “Brenda took time to get know me and cared about my recovery,” Valerie recalled. “She was very open and I loved the strong presence she had in the hospital. She would make rounds through the rehab gym and hand out treats to the patients!”

Valerie believes there are several phases to her success, but the most important was returning to her active life. Her main goal for rehab was to transfer on-and-off her Alinker walking bike to walk again, which she achieved! Valerie’s belief in “seeing the good everywhere you go” helped fuel her recovery. Valerie has discharged home from NCRH and resumed working full-time.

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Ray Lafflam

After two years of unsuccessful treatment for back pain, Ray Lafflam underwent surgery, followed by rehab at NCRH.

For the last 22 years, Ray Lafflam has been enjoying retirement. He loves to go camping, make fruit wine, and do woodworking. Ray, 75, lives with his wife in a fifth wheel RV in Loveland, CO. For two years, he was president of his Winnebago club.

But the last two years have been difficult for Ray, as he struggled with chronic lower back pain. Conservative attempts at managing the pain failed, so Ray elected to have an L2-pelvis fusion. After surgery, Ray chose to come to Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital.

Ray chose NCRH for several reasons. Not only did the hospital come recommended, but he had a few friends that had been patients at NCRH and had a great experience. It also didn’t hurt that NCRH was close to the RV park where Ray lives.

Regardless of why Ray chose NCRH, he’s glad he did. He loves how the hospital provides three hours of therapy each day, stating “you won’t heal unless you work hard!”

Ray also praised the staff effusively.

“Dr. Whitek always listened to my health problems and did what he could to resolve them,” Ray shared. “The nurses have been great at giving me pain medications on a regular schedule. The therapists were excellent and I love how the therapy gym had such a fantastic assortment of machines and equipment.”

For Ray, success means he’s no longer hurting. After completing his home study, Ray discharged home from NCRH. He’s excited to be back in familiar surroundings with his wife and dog. And he can’t wait to go camping again, as it’s been more than two years since his last trip!

“I am so excited to get back to what retirement life should be like…and, of course, my wife’s cooking!”

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Ian Wickramasekera

Ian Wickramasekera was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus, associated with Guillain-Barre syndrome, causing muscle weakness & paralysis.

Life in Aurora was good for 50-year-old Ian Wickramasekera. He spent his days teaching at Naropa University in Boulder, his nights going out dancing, and filled his spare time with long-distance running.

But then, Ian stopped feeling like himself. For a few weeks, he spiked high fevers and experienced delirium, body aches, shortness of breath, and a cough. Then his legs began giving him problems. Ian developed bilateral lower limb weakness. Walking became difficult and he fell several times. To Ian, it felt like he was becoming totally paralyzed.

Ian knew he needed medical help and sought care at his local hospital. They admitted Ian and the doctors ran some tests. Ian was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus associated with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). GBS is a rare condition that causes the immune system to attack the nervous system. This often leads to muscle weakness and paralysis.

Rehabilitation plays an important role in helping someone with GBS regain their independence. Ian spoke with a clinical liaison from Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital. After their discussion, he felt NCRH was the right choice for his rehabilitation. Though Ian considered facilities closer to home, the services and outcomes NCRH offered impressed him.

Though Ian’s expectations were high, NCRH didn’t disappoint.

“The therapists influenced my recovery the most with all their encouragement,” Ian reflected. “Rebekka Keho (OT) and Shelby Lojo (PTA) had amazing treatment plans. Great communication. They collaborated well together and encouraged my independence. They are highly trained, mature, and open-hearted people. Anyone can be a therapist, but these ladies have been very motivating! Ben Adams (PT) always volunteered to help me and made me feel comfortable and safe. Mark Nagel (OT) incorporated music and dance in my therapy. He has great expertise!”

Ian looks forward to dancing with his friends again, as well as teaching. During his stay, Ian described success as leaving with the ability to regain full ambulation. In one day at NCRH, Ian had walked 267 feet!

Now discharged home, Ian is thankful he chose NCRH for his rehab. “Dr. Arrogante, the nurses, and everyone were great at listening and encouraging,” he said. “I am forever grateful for my experience here.”

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Gary Sampson

A stroke left Gary Sampson unable to do the things he loves, like volunteering.

Gary Sampson is one of those people you can’t help but admire. The self-described “professional volunteer” has made a living through a life of service. His career includes work as a police officer, part of the National Red Cross, and a Victim Witness Director at the District Attorney’s office.

In retirement, Gary worked with the Loveland Fair Board, serves as the Zone Chair of the Lions Club, is the Leading Knight for the Elks Lodge, and drives for the Senior Alternatives in Transportation program. He’s also a family man, enjoying his two children and five grandchildren whenever he can.

But, last year Gary suffered a stroke, bringing his active lifestyle to a halt. The stroke affected Gary’s left side and caused acute respiratory failure. He required a ventilator to breathe. To wean from the ventilator, he admitted to Northern Colorado Long Term Acute Hospital. After successfully weaning from the vent, he was ready for inpatient rehabilitation. That led him next door to Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital.

One of the main reasons Gary chose NCRH was their competency in the care of stroke patients. He was very pleased with his decision. “Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital is such a positive and motivating place to do rehab!” Gary stated. All the staff answered all my questions and it felt like a family atmosphere. Even Dr. Pearson, who was my LTACH physician, would come [to] see how I was doing in rehab.”

Upon completing his rehabilitation stay, Gary discharged home with his wife, Sherlyn. He continues his therapy on an outpatient basis at NCRH, progressing each day. He has returned to the Lions Club and is now the Second Vice District Governor with the 6NE District.

The most important advice Gary has to give for those in a similar situation?

“Little steps, in the long run, end up being big steps and NCRH helped me to be able to stand and walk again!”

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Margaret Matthews

Margaret Matthews_Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital

Margaret suffered a head injury when she tripped at a restaurant. To return home safely, she needed rehabilitation and chose NCRH.

Margaret Matthews, 72, enjoys a quiet, peaceful, retired life with her husband of 50 years, Jim. Together, they live in Windsor, CO, and spent the past 38 years caring for their family. For the past 16 years, Margaret has enjoyed participating in a ladies’ investment group. Together, the couple enjoys going to conditioning class. They also enjoy dining at their favorite restaurants.

Out for a meal one night, Margaret tripped over a folded-up carpet on the ground. She fractured her right ring finger in the fall and hit her head. Margaret remembers the entire accident. Jim brought her to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with a subdural hematoma.

Due to the injury, Margaret would need rehabilitation to safely return home. She chose Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital for her recovery. Many of their friends and family had been patients at NCRH. Margaret and Jim knew she would have an intensive therapy regimen at NCRH.

Jim would be a major influence on Margaret’s recovery. Every day, Jim was with his wife, sharing meals and supporting her. His support allowed Margaret to focus on her recovery.

Margaret also acknowledged the support of the staff at NCRH. “The nurses are so upbeat with a positive attitude,” she noted. “They are always smiling and helpful. The therapists are so patient and know when you are exhausted. And the food was fantastic. They were able to cater to my gluten-free diet.”

“I love how I was treated like an individual!”

Having put in the hard work, Margaret was able to discharge home with Jim. She looks forward to spending more time with him and getting out more often.

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James Heaberlin

After undergoing surgery on his spine, James came to NCRH to regain his strength in order to care for his stepson.

James Heaberlin rarely ever gets sick. The 82-year-old is a living testament to the benefits of an active lifestyle. James, who has lived in Fort Collins for the past 40 years, and has always been healthy. He enjoys daily three-mile walks with his dog and spending time with his family, including his wife, six children, and 16 grandkids. James is a retired military combat veteran who served in the U.S. Army and completed three combat tours. Retired from banking and insurance, James and his wife spend their days caring for their developmentally disabled stepson and doing household chores.

But one of those chores would wind up changing James’ trend of good health. Working on the garage door at his house, James fell from a ladder. In the fall, he suffered an L4 compression fracture.

Initially, James completed an outpatient therapy program to treat his injuries. Unfortunately, the pain only continued to increase. James elected to have a kyphoplasty — a minimally-invasive surgery to treat a spinal compression fracture. After surgery, James would require rehabilitation.

For his rehab, James chose Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital. He chose NCRH because of its reputation, as well as the recommendation of a close family member who had success at the hospital.

James came to NCRH fully motivated to recover. “My motivation for recovery is that the Lord told me to marry my wife and take care of my stepson,” James stated. “My one and only goal is to get back on my feet and be strong enough to take care of my stepson.”

Working hard on his recovery, James made great progress while at NCRH. He is glad he chose Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital for his recovery. “I absolutely have loved the physicians,” James said, as he prepared to discharge home. “They have always been so interested in helping me, so warm, and just extraordinary. And the nursing staff have been outstanding and always go above-and-beyond!”

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Edward Aitken

Edward Aitken has lived a life of service, with a specific passion for helping veterans.

Married for 51 years with two sons and three grandchildren, Edward Aitken has lived a life of service. He has served as the state commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of Colorado, Second Vice President of the United Veterans Coalition, and manager of the Associated Veterans of Loveland. His passion in life — if you couldn’t tell already — is helping veterans.

But when the 76-year-old was involved in a motor vehicle accident, that all came to a halt. Edward suffered an L4 compression fracture and sternal fracture. Inpatient rehabilitation would be important to get Edward back to serving others. Edward chose Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital because of past experience. His wife had been a patient at NCRH and received great care.

“The therapists were awesome! Very professional and yet, down to earth,” Edward recalled. “Jessica, Laura, and Isaiah were top notch. I’m not sure how therapy can be fun, but they made it that way! The food was great. Everyone was friendly. I can never give enough praise to all the staff for helping me get home.”

Motivated by his desire to get back to helping veterans, Edward worked hard at NCRH. As a result, he discharged home after less than two weeks. Edward is excited to resume outpatient therapy at NCRH and get back to serving the veterans in our community.

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Anne Sweet

Anne Sweet was enjoying her independent lifestyle before a serious fall landed her in the hospital.

Anne Sweet, 70, was used to her independent lifestyle. Anne lived alone but enjoyed the company of her friends, sister, nieces, and nephews. She spent her free time gardening and looking for flowers and plants at local nurseries.

One March day, Anne’s life changed forever. On the way home from a party at her sister’s house, Anne fell getting into a Lyft ride. She was hospitalized with bilateral subdural hematomas. Her hospitalization was extensive due to multiple complications. These included respiratory failure, left-sided hemiplegia, facial droop, and dysarthria.

When Anne was ready for the next stage of her recovery, her sister had a decision to make. She chose Northern Colorado Long Term Acute Hospital, which came highly recommended by the staff at the short-term acute care hospital.

Anne appreciated her sister’s decision, stating “the care was consistent, and I really liked the staff.”

After several weeks at the long-term acute care hospital, Anne discharged to a skilled nursing facility. When she could handle intensive inpatient rehabilitation, she transferred to Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital. Anne’s decision to choose NCRH was based on the hospital’s great reputation and focused rehab for her diagnosis. She also loved the hospital’s goal to get patients home.

“The staff was responsive to my needs and wanted to get me better to discharge home,” Anne said. “My sister and the staff worked together to make a comprehensive plan for me to get home. It was a team effort.”

That team received a lot of praise from Anne.

“Dr. Arrogante was a very competent physician. I loved working with Jessica, my physical therapist, because she was so professional, but also very creative with making therapy unique and fun. Jim, one of my nurses, was great about talking to me. He shared experience from his life that would help motivate me to get better. He was also very good at educating me about the medications I was taking.”

As Anne prepared to discharge to her new home — an independent living facility in Denver — she noted how things have changed since her initial hospitalization. “My goals have changed a lot during these hospitalizations,” she stated. “When I was in the LTACH, I just wanted to walk again. Now I want to be independent and live a life with my friends and family. I want to stay as healthy as possible and get back to gardening since that is my passion.”

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