VOLUNTEERS Volunteers help patients and families with a variety of needs, such as taking you to a therapy session or a special event, or helping your clinicians during therapy. For additional information, or to request a volunteer, please call the Volunteer Services Office from your room phone at 8.6026. SCHOOLING For kids of school age, we have an onsite classroom with dedicated Chicago Public School teachers who can provide instruction and tutoring. DINING The Horizon Café is on the 12th floor and open each day from 7 am–7 pm. Hot and cold meals, fresh fruit, salads and healthy snacks are available. There are also vending machines, a Farmer’s Fridge and microwaves. Monday–Friday
Dave Marks Big Step in Personal Journey After Limb Loss When Dave J. graduated from law school, a congenital heart defect slowed his progress toward becoming a lawyer. After experiencing complications following a heart transplant, it became necessary for Dave’s left leg to be amputated. Dave came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for rehabilitation after his limb loss, spending several months as an inpatient, followed by DayRehab, for physical and occupational therapy. “When I arrived at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, I couldn’t do anything,” he said. “I couldn’t really move or do things for myself.” During inpatient care, Dave learned to move by himself once again — first transferring from his bed to a wheelchair using a slide board, then learning to stand and pivot. He slowly gained the strength and ability to hop using a walker, and he mastered activities of daily living such as dressing himself and managing personal tasks independently. As part of his recovery, Dave was fitted for a prosthetic leg. He participated in training on how to stand and walk using his new leg, eventually learning to walk with the assistance of his cane or walker. As Dave continued to make gains in his mobility, he set his sights on a new milestone: passing the bar exam three years after his heart transplant. He officially was sworn in as a lawyer and, during the ceremony, he stood on his own while taking the oath to practice law in Illinois. “I want to be an inspiration for whoever may need it,” said Dave.
• Breakfast: 7–10 am • Lunch: 11 am–2 pm • Dinner: 4–7 pm Saturday–Sunday • Breakfast: 7:30–10 am • Lunch: 11 am–2 pm • Dinner: 4–6:30 pm
To watch Dave’s patient story video, visit sralab.org/dave
Inside Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
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